A sun-drenched celebration was held in the grounds of Castlewellan Forest Park on Thursday to thank the dedicated team behind the restoration of the historic Annesley Walled Garden. Volunteers and council staff were recognised for their passion and commitment over the past three years, which culminated in the garden’s reopening earlier this month following a £1.3 million transformation.
Located at the heart of the park’s renowned arboretum, the 12-acre Victorian garden dates back to the 1850s and features rare and exotic trees, shrubs and plants. Restoration work included repairs following storm damage, as well as the refurbishment of three historic glasshouses and the return of the Mermaid and Heron fountains to full working order.
The project was supported by the Castlewellan Historic Demesne initiative, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council. To mark the achievement, volunteers were treated to a celebration lunch and presented with tokens of appreciation, alongside special recognition for project staff.
Volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds played a key role in restoring the garden, from planting and propagation work to supporting events and biodiversity surveys. Two apprentices involved in the project have since secured roles within the gardening team, highlighting the lasting impact of the initiative.
Paying tribute at the event, council chairperson Philip Campbell praised the volunteers’ efforts, describing their contribution as vital to the project’s success and one that will leave a lasting legacy for the future of the garden.
