Project

Restoring the Union Jack Garden project

The Union Jack Gardens from above | © NT images/Paul Harris

Over the last few years, we have invited local communities to actively contribute to the restoration and development of the Union Jack Garden. The identity and values of each group are now represented throughout the garden, creating a contemporary version of Thomas Wentworth’s wilderness space with all its variety and interest.

The history of the Union Jack Garden

This 18th century garden was first planted in 1713. Geometric gardens were very popular at the time. As a ‘formal wilderness’ garden, the Union Jack Garden provided an interesting and secluded place for visitors to walk, chat with friends and find inspiration in nature.

Thomas Wentworth not only showcased his wealth and status in the design of the Union Jack Garden, but also his political allegiance. The layout combines the crosses of St George and St Andrew, celebrating the Union of Scotland and England in 1707.

'Wildernesses, if rightly situated, artfully contrived, and judiciously planted, are the greatest ornaments to a fine Garden.'

- Philip Miller, The Gardeners’ and Florists Dictionary, 1734

Reviving the Union Jack Garden

Over the last three years we have brought this story up to date by asking local groups to work with us to design and create garden segments in the original Union Jack Garden.

The groups have worked with the gardeners to design and re-plant the garden in a way that represents the character and values of their members. Many of the groups have an ongoing relationship with Wentworth Castle Gardens so will continue to visit to maintain and enjoy the spaces they have created.

This project has been jointly funded by the National Trust and Barnsley Council.

Upgrading the paths

A generous gift in will has also allowed us to upgrade the paths in the South Union Jack Garden, allowing the historic gardens to be accessed and enjoyed by all visitors.

Project completion

In September 2024 the official end of the project was marked with a celebration for all of those who've been involved in the recreation of the gardens. However, the gardens will continue to develop and grow, reflecting the ongoing change that has always formed part of Wentworth's story.

The Union Jack segment designed by Barnsley Feels Like Home | © NT images/James Beck

Explore the spaces

Within the high hedges of the Union Jack Gardens, discover seasonal planting and artistic inventions; find a space to play, to be quiet, to picnic or to encounter wildlife.

Get lost in the wilderness and let us know what you find!

Latest updates

September 2024

We celebrate the end of the project

Groups, volunteers and members of the project team come together to celebrate the end of the project with food, singing and a chance to meet everyone who's been involved over the last few years.

Bunting in the chestnut tree to celebrate the end of the Union Jack Garden project — Celebrating the completion of the Union Jack Garden project | © Nick Singleton

Two people and a dog are silhouetted standing next to the rotunda. The rotunda is a round brick building supported by six pillars surrounding it and has steps leading up to it.

Discover more at Wentworth Castle Gardens

Find out when Wentworth Castle Garden is open, how to get here, things to see and do and more.

Plan your visit

Planting trees at Wentworth Castle Gardens

Article

Our work at Wentworth Castle Gardens

Your support helps us to look after Wentworth Castle Gardens for generations to come. Over the five years that the National Trust have cared for this Grade-1 listed landscape, we have worked to restore the formal gardens, create new habitats in the parkland, and conserve important buildings and monuments.