London Parks & Gardens are very excited to be taking part in this year’s Backyard Biennial (15 Jul – 06 Sep 2026). The Biennial is part of Whitechapel Gallery’s 125th birthday celebrations and is a celebration of all things creative in the Gallery’s home borough of Tower Hamlets.

We are collaborating with the Gallery’s learning team and walking artist Clare Qualmann on a project centered around Mile End Park. Originally conceived of as part of London’s post-war redevelopment which identified the need for significant green space in this otherwise densely built up district, the park has evolved with the community over the years and reflects the changing fortunes of East London. In the 1990’s it played host to Rachel Whiteread’s iconic artwork House, and today it is perhaps best known for the spectacular Green Bridge which carries the park over the busy Mile End Road and is home to over 20 trees.

Throughout June, we worked with primary school educators from across Tower Hamlets in a series of workshops in the park to create Walking Scores, playful prompts playful prompts exploring the deep relationship between walking, mental well-being, and artistic expression. Building on some research undertaken during the COVID-19 pandemic walking scores are written or spoken instructions on how to walk through a space like the park, slowing things down and taking notice of your experiences and engagements with the surrounding environment.

On 25 July, we are showcasing these scores through a public event in Mile End Park

Walking Scores for Mile End Park, isn’t just a casual stroll. You will be provided with a unique series of creative instructions or prompts generated by artists, poets, and community members. These scores guide your journey, encouraging you to observe the intersection of nature, history, noise, and stillness as you move through this historic green space.

It’s an exploration of how we interact with, and belong to, the public landscapes we often take for granted. We champion the unique stories of London’s historic landscapes. Partnering on events like this allows us all to deepen our connection to the spaces we cherish. Come and add your footprints to the score! 

We’d love to take a walk with as many of you as possible!

Event details:  
When: Saturday 25 July 1 – 4 pm  
Where: Mile End Park. Meet just south of The Palm Tree pub, what3words location: ///sand.window.bowls  
How much: this is a free event