A “soothing” garden to give hospice patients and their families the chance to relax in a peaceful environment has officially been opened.

North London Hospice, in Woodside Avenue, North Finchley, unveiled its new Hospice Garden for Patients on Sunday.

The garden, which features herbs and shrubs to attract wildlife including butterflies and birds, has been built in memory of the former Finchley MP and prime minister Margaret Thatcher.

Carlamarie Kernan, whose husband Michael is being cared for at the hospice, said: “For those patients lucky enough to be able to look out on to this wonderful space, they now have flowers and foliage, the sight of birds hopping about in the beds and in good weather, they will be able to sit outside on benches and enjoy the fresh air and the soothing sound of the water.

“Where the hospice gives such tender loving care to all their patients, this garden is truly uplifting for everyone’s spirits.’’

Bedrooms overlook the gardens and each patient has their own private and secluded space on the patio outside.

The opening ceremony was attended by Finchley and Golders Green MP Mike Freer, Chipping Barnet MP Theresa Villiers and Harvey Thomas, who was Mrs Thatcher’s director of communications.

The idea for the garden came from Derek and Tessa Philips, members of the Finchley Conservatives, and they raised £32,000 for the project.

Money was also donated by the Heroes 4 Helen campaign, in tribute to Helen Koumianakis who was cared for at the hospice earlier this year before she died of a brain tumour.

Chairman of trustees John Bryce said: “The hospice garden plays such an important role in the patient experience here at North London Hospice.

“It provides an environment where both patients and visitors can meet and chat or enjoy some quiet time to gather their thoughts.

“I would like to say a big thank you to all of the people who have very kindly contributed their time, effort and their money in helping us all make this truly great transformation possible.”