A year after its grand unveiling, the Mediterranean Garden at Beningbrough has flourished into a vibrant, climate-resilient haven.
Designed by award-winning landscape architect Andy Sturgeon, the National Trust garden represents the largest phase of Beningbrough’s long-term vision.
Once an underused grassed area, the space was transformed into a landscape featuring more than 4,000 herbaceous perennials, grasses, trees, and shrubs originating from Mediterranean climate zones across the globe.
A series of low York Stone walls, winding paths, and water features, including a rill and pond with stepping stones, create a tranquil and immersive experience.
The garden’s design also draws on archival research, reviving the spirit of historic water features once present in the area.
Head gardener Sam Shipman said: “When the build started in 2023, it rained almost every day.
“The irony of constructing a Mediterranean garden during one of the wettest years on record wasn’t lost on us. We encountered several delays, but the result has been worth the wait.”
Sam went on to say: “Now we’ve seen one of the dryest springs on record, despite this, the planting has quickly established and had been quick to show its beauty.
“I’m pleased with the minimal losses in this first year.”
A few tender plants didn’t survive the winter, such as Echiums, but the garden team have other seedlings ready to fill any gaps.
Bulbs have also been late or slow to flower, so there’s promise of a different vibe next spring if they establish and grow. The wet weather episodes that are so prominent could also impact their blooms.
Beacon of biodiversity
The garden is also a beacon of biodiversity and climate adaptation.
A large underground tank captures excess rainfall, slowly releasing it to prevent flooding, while drought-tolerant plants reduce the need for watering.
Over 3,500 of the new plants are listed on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list, a dramatic increase from the previous planting scheme.
Among the standout species are:
- Koelreuteria paniculata (Pride of India) – a climate-resilient tree with summer blooms.
- Grevillea ‘Canberra Gem’ – an evergreen shrub with vibrant winter flowers.
- Kniphofia ‘Tawny King’ – a stately red-hot poker with orange-to-cream blooms.
- Stipa Gigantea – golden oat grass that dances in the breeze.
The Mediterranean Garden has quickly become a favourite among visitors, offering new perspectives, peaceful seating areas, and a sensory journey through textures, scents, and sounds.
It goes with Beningbrough’s eight acres of formal gardens, including the Walled Garden, Pergola, and double herbaceous borders.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the garden and speak with the team about how they can adapt their own gardens to meet the challenges of climate change.
The project was made possible thanks to a generous legacy from the late Mr Ian Reddihough, whose bequest continues to support Beningbrough’s garden development.
Work will begin in autumn on the next phase, the Wilderness Garden, where new underplanting, extended pathways and reclaimed views are in the making, to add to the year-round interest of the estate.
For more information and to plan your visit, click here.
