In the shadow of St Paul's Cathedral and hidden along a small passageway, from Foster Lane, is this wonderful public garden, that holds some intriguing and historic items.
The garden is built on what was once a graveyard belonging to St Vedast-alias-Foster, a church that was founded in around 1170.
The church has been restored many times and rebuilt at least twice, the last by Sir Christopher Wren following the Great Fire of 1666.
The church was completely gutted during The Blitz, with its restoration being undertaken by Canon Charles Bernard Mortlock, Poet Laureate John Betjeman, Noel Mander a master organ builder and architect Stephen Dykes Bower.
An adjacent plot to the north, formerly the location of the Fountain Pub, was purchased and used for the construction of a new Rectory. On land between this new Rectory and what is now the parish hall of St Vedast a small secluded courtyard was built.
Passing through these blue doors and up the three small stone steps you will find yourself in a small courtyard, with a tree as a centrepiece, various plants and plaques. The white walls in contrast with the brick walls and the covered walkway gives this small courtyard an almost Mediterranean feel.
But there are secrets to be discovered here: Roman tiles, sculptures and a 3,000 year old brick, from Iraq.
On the south wall you will find the remains of a Roman pavement, discovered 18 feet below the floor of the church of St Matthew, Friday Street, which was demolished in 1886.
There is a small sculpture of Canon Charles Bernard Mortlock, entitled 'Head', by Jacob Epstein.
