Queen Elizabeth II's would-be 100th birthday to be celebrated in moving tribute

King Charles's mother was the longest-reigning monarch in British history when she died in September 2022 at age 96.

The late monarch would have turned 100 on April 21, 2026.

Royal Parks said in a statement: "Work is now underway to transform a disused plant nursery in the heart of the Regent’s Park into a beautiful two-acre garden, which is set to open in 2026, to mark what would have been the late Queen’s centenary year.

"Key features of the garden will include a circular pond enhancing wildlife habitats, a central promenade with an accessible platform over the pond, and a vibrant flower garden showcasing species significant to the late Queen."

In a new behind-the-scenes video, Senior Landscape Project Manager Matthew Halsall explained that disused growing space is being transformed into a garden, "turning grey to green".

HTA Design LLP is designing the garden with horticulturist Dr Noel Kingsbury and Tate + Co architects.

The aim is to complement historic gardens within Regent's Park while introducing sustainable innovations.

An old water tower is set to be converted into an accessible viewing platform with panoramic views of the gardens, while the tower will be a habitat for birds, bats and other animals.

In addition, the garden "will significantly boost biodiversity in the park" through diverse habitats like nectar-rich planting, meadows, woodlands and hedgerows to welcome wildlife.

The sustainable standards will include recycling steel from the former greenhouse into a new pergola and repurposed water tower while converting demolished concrete into new growing mediums.

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Reports in The Telegraph have claimed that Queen Elizabeth's favourite flower will also be featured in the garden.

The late Queen loved lily-of-the-valley, which was featured in her Coronation bouquet back in 1953 along with orchids from England, stephanotis from Scotland, orchids from Wales and carnations from Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man.

Andrew Scattergood, Chief Executive of the Royal Parks said: "The approval of planning permission marks an exciting step forward in the creation of the new garden, which is designed to be a tranquil space for reflection, accessible to all. It provides a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

"This site will add two acres of biodiverse parkland for everyone to enjoy and explore."