The Garden of Hope

The Garden of Hope designed by Creepers Nursery

The garden is conceived as a restorative naturalistic space that honours the compassionate palliative care of Thames Hospice. Nestled among the planting, stands a very special elephant sculpture painted by British artist, illustrator and author Charlie Mackesy which will feature as part of the charities upcoming ‘Trunks Across the Thames’ art trail.

The planting design draws inspiration from Mackesy’s work, expressed through a muted palette of pastels—lilac, blush pink, sage and pale primrose – layered with deeper, shadowed tones, evoking the passage from grief’s darkness towards moments of light and reassurance. Airy, cloud-like textures drift through the space, suggesting a shifting sky and the gentle, ever-changing character of the Thames-side landscape.

A winding path leads visitors through the garden, encouraging slow movement and contemplation. Along the way, accessible seating offers places to rest, while a simple reflective water bowl provides a moment of
stillness.

The planting reflects an ornamental interpretation of the landscapes found along the nearby Thames Path. Waterside species such as iris and river birch are woven with the structure of woodland planting—ferns and yew— before opening into looser, meadow-like drifts of grasses and umbellifers. Lightness and transparency run throughout: fennel and smoke bush create soft, cloud-like layers, while molinia grasses and tall Thalictrum provide airy screening, offering seclusion whilst still allowing glimpses beyond. The garden is a place for contemplation, offering reassurance and hope in honour of the hospice’s work.

Following the Royal Windsor Flower Show The Garden of Hope will be relocated to Thames Hospice in Bray.

Trunks Across The Thames

Trunks across the Thames is Thames Hospice’s very first art trail which sees businesses, schools, community groups and artists unite to create a free, fun, family-friendly trail of discovery for the local community to explore and enjoy.

The majestic herd will be marching between 13th July to 13th September 2026.  The herd of  individually designed magnificent elephant sculptures will bring vibrancy, colour and creative artistry, transforming the streets, parks and open spaces of Slough, Eton and Windsor into a glorious open-air gallery.

Trunks across the Thames will ignite a wave of positive change, delivering significant economic, social, and cultural benefits throughout Slough and Windsor!