Auckland Project gardens bloom with triple award

A North East heritage site is celebrating national recognition for its gardens.

The Auckland Project, in Bishop Auckland, has secured three top honours in this year’s Northumbria in Bloom Awards. 

Auckland Palace’s historic grounds and Walled Garden received Gold in the Tourist and Visitor Attractions and Country Estates category, alongside a Special Recognition Award for community engagement from Bishop Auckland in Bloom.

Judges praised recent developments, including the fully restored 17th century Walled Garden, the Wilderness Garden, the Faith Garden and the Paradise Garden. 

Andy Nesbitt, head curator of parks, gardens and landscapes at The Auckland Project, said: “The grounds and gardens team work incredibly hard to maintain the beautiful parkland, gardens and landscapes surrounding Auckland Palace, and it’s wonderful to see their passion and commitment recognised by this special award.”

Nigel Bryson, retiring secretary of Bishop Auckland in Bloom, added: “The Auckland Project’s gardens are a real asset to the town. 

“The care and creativity shown by the team have transformed the grounds into a space that not only delights visitors but also brings people together through community involvement. 

“Their work truly reflects the spirit of Bishop Auckland in Bloom, and this recognition is very well deserved.”

Spanning ten acres of landscaped gardens and a 150-acre Deer Park, the site is maintained by a dedicated team and 19 regular volunteers. 

Produce grown on site supports the charity’s restaurants and local food banks, while corporate volunteering days with businesses including Nissan, Gleeds Newcastle and Durham University provide hands-on gardening support.

Sharon Bridge, senior gardener at The Auckland Project, receives the awards on behalf of the charity

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