News
Our latest news stories, profiles of our experts and our views on news that we care about

I'm interested in...

Plant Conservation Centre turns 40
This month we're celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Plant Conservation Centre, which plays a vital role in conserving rare and historically important plants for the gardens and parklands in our care. The centre, which began life in 1982, is even more important as plant collections age and as we experience the impacts of climate change.

Rare surviving tapestries return to The Vyne
Full of colourful scenes and fantastical animals, these highly decorative Soho tapestries captured how Europeans imagined the 'Far East' in the early 18th century. They were removed eight years ago for safekeeping when a succession of storms caused damage to the former Tudor powerhouse. On inspection their fragile state was revealed, from degrading yarns to warped backings that were putting strain on the fabric. After several years of conservation the tapestries are back on display at The Vyne in Hampshire.

Refuge created for endangered crayfish
The white-clawed crayfish, one of the UK's most endangered species, has been given a fresh chance of survival thanks to a refuge created at the Wallington Estate in Northumberland. We'll be taking up to 100 of the crustaceans from the River Wansbeck to an old cattle drinking hole, which has been made into an isolated and self-contained area known as an 'Ark' site. The decline of white-clawed crayfish is largely due to the rise of American signal crayfish, which spread disease and monopolise food and habitat.

Common pests at the places in our care
Last year our staff identified and logged 56,742 insects at the places we care for. The five most common insect pests found in 2021 remain the same as those recorded in 2020 but the webbing clothes moth has knocked silverfish out of the number-one spot. Learn more about these small but destructive creatures and discover how we reduce the damage they cause to houses and collections.

Supporting the Queen’s Green Canopy
This year, we’re supporting the Queen’s Green Canopy at the places in our care to mark the Platinum Jubilee. We’re creating a legacy that honours Her Majesty’s 70-year reign. 70 unique and inspiring Jubilee tree planting projects will take place to mark this significant moment in history.
Read more news stories
Visit our media centre to read all of our latest news stories.