DofE - Wentworth Garden, Union Jack Garden Project

April 2023

A group of Duke of Edinburgh participants were out today to visit Wentworth Castle Gardens. Here they learned about the history of the site, explored the enormous maze of greenery and spoke to the gardeners about upcoming voluntary work at their impressive Union Jack Garden Project.

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.

Reviving the Union Jack Garden

At Wentworth Castle Gardens, now bringing 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.

Local communities will not only be involved in designing and re-planting the garden but will be invited to continue to work with us to maintain and enjoy the spaces they have created.

#educationwithcharacter