Launched in 1984, the Historic Houses Garden of the Year Award celebrates Britain’s historic parks and gardens, recognising the importance of these spectacular gardens for their horticultural and public appeal. The competition is run in conjunction with the sponsor, Christie’s and the award is voted for by the general public. The Historic Houses association represents and supports the UK’s independent historic homes, castles, and gardens.
For 2025, the shortlist includes favourites such as Lowther Castle gardens which have been brought back to life by landscape designer, Dan Pearson and the Wiltshire based, Iford Manor, with its Grade I listed garden.
“This year’s shortlist shows the variety on show across England’s finest gardens. They range from the historic grandeur of Arundel Castle to the bluebells and wildflower meadows of Hole Park. Hestercombe blends Georgian formality with Edwardian charm, while Iford Manor offers Italianate terraces and tranquil vistas. At Lowther Castle, a planting scheme has taken over the ruins, while at Penshurst Place visitors can enjoy 11 acres of Elizabethan gardens. The walled gardens at Raby Castle have recently had a complete makeover, while Wollerton Old Hall delights with intimate garden rooms and exquisite planting. Each of our shortlist offers a unique journey through history, beauty, and seasonal splendour,” said Ben Cowell, Director General of Historic Houses.
Ursula Cholmeley, Chair of the Historic Houses Gardens Committee, added: “There is such a wonderfully diverse range of gardens in the UK under independent ownership, and this annual award is a great opportunity to recognise and reward the hard work that goes into the upkeep of these gardens, from both the owners and full gardening teams. This year’s shortlist showcases the natural beauty up and down the country, with eight impressive gardens.”
In 2024, Inveraray Castle, in the West Highlands of Scotland won the award and in 2023, the honour was that of Glenarm Castle Walled Garden, in County Antrim in Northern Ireland.
Shortlist Garden of the Year Award 2025
The public can vote for their favourite of the 2025 shortlisted gardens listed below:
- Arundel Castle Gardens, West Sussex
- Hestercombe Gardens, Somerset
- Hole Park, Kent
- Iford Manor Gardens, Wiltshire
- Lowther Castle Gardens, Cumbria
- Penshurst Place and Gardens, Kent
- Raby Castle, Park, and Gardens, Co. Durham
- Wollerton Old Hall Garden, Shropshire
Voting closes on the 31st of August 2025.
