Park Life

Sue Wood, North Yorkshire Council Horticultural Development Officer and RHS Britain in Bloom judge, took 40+ members and guests on a virtual tour of the many parks/gardens under her care. While most of us know and appreciate Valley Gardens we also had our eyes opened to the history of Ripon Spa gardens, established by the 1st Marquess of Ripon and the work being done there to ensure its continued success in competitions such as Yorkshire in Bloom (Platinum winner in 2022). Like many public spaces anti social behaviour is a challenge but rather than remove areas of planting that attract such behaviour NY found a creative solution- rather than removing trees completely their trunks were carved by "Chain Saw artist" Mick Burns into an Alice in Wonderland display.

The gardens at Conyham Hall and the gardens around Knaresborough House and Castle were also featured.

Of course we also heard about Valley Gardens, and the recent projects renewing the New Zealand and Japanese Gardens. Valley Gardens is one of the few public gardens still featuring the once traditional summer dahlia display bed.

A very illuminating evening, making all present appreciate the wonderful gardens we have in the local area.


It remains to be seen how the gardens that were under local management (Harrogate Borough Council) will fare under North Yorkshire Council control. Unfortunately cuts in budgets are feared reducing the already limited funds available for the excellent gardening team, and possibly seeing the replacement of dramatic, and often themed, seasonal flower beds with easier to maintain grass.