The Auckland Project unveils its redeveloped gardens and celebrates with new events

20th May 2024

The Auckland Project, set up by philanthropists Jonathan and Jane Ruffer, will unveil the redesigned Walled Garden on Saturday 25th May, which has been almost a decade in the making. 

Designed by Pip Morrison, whose previous work includes the reimagined Sunken Garden at Kensington Palace, London, which surrounds the commentative statue of Princess Diana, the themes of faith, art and creativity are central to all the gardens.  

Pip and The Auckland Project team have explored the connections between spaces and creating impressive open areas with rich colours and textures. 

The project consists of the castle’s Walled Garden, Faith Garden, Broadwalk, Wilderness Garden and a new Victorian-inspired glasshouse, which lies in the upper half of the Walled Garden. 

Pip Morrison said of the project: “We've designed a garden that responded to the history of the site as the productive garden of the Bishops of Durham but also created something visually appealing to visitors.   

“The project is designed to be sympathetic to Auckland Castle’s architecture and was a consideration when developing the designs, planting, and textures." 

Jane Ruffer, co-founder of The Auckland Project, said: “Auckland Castle’s Walled Garden was important as a functional and productive space, but also showcased the wealth and resources the Prince Bishops had at the time. It is part of County Durham’s history, so we’re thrilled to be opening the gardens, restoring them to their original purpose but with a modern design. 

“We’ve enjoyed working with Pip on his masterplan and are thankful for how The Auckland Project’s gardening team have helped bring it to life.” 

Andy Nesbitt, head of parks, gardens & landscapes at The Auckland Project, added: “From a personal perspective, I’m excited to bring our visitors even closer to the valuable work our volunteers and gardeners do. By making everything, including the glasshouse, open to visitors, we hope to encourage everyone from novice gardeners to green-fingered experts, providing advice and inspiration in an informal setting.”  The Auckland Project’s gardens open to the public on Saturday 25^th May from 10:30am. An Unlimited Pass or general admissions ticket is required for access to the garden.