Brimsmore Gardens in Yeovil has dazzled the country by clinching the coveted National Champion title in the Garden Centre Association’s (GCA) annual Christmas Display Competition. This prestigious accolade recognizes its outstanding work in the Local Garden Centre Category, underscoring the centre’s commitment to festive magic and innovation.
This achievement marks the fifteenth time a centre from The Gardens Group has proudly taken home a top award in the past two decades. The group enjoyed widespread success this year, with Poundbury Gardens near Dorchester securing second place nationally, and Castle Gardens in Sherborne reaching the regional finals in the larger Garden Centre Category.
Judges evaluated the entries on atmosphere, creativity, variety, flow, and presentation. GCA Inspectors Alyson Haywood and Peter Walker praised the centres for their imaginative and immersive festive experiences, highlighting glowing entrances, sensory storytelling, and spectacular displays that evoked true holiday spirit.
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Louise Burks, director of The Gardens Group and curator of the displays, emphasized their eco-friendly focus. The decorations featured repurposed and recycled materials, with themes inspired by beloved stories such as The Gruffalo, Alice in Wonderland, Tinsel Town, and a Highland Christmas. Sustainable elements included glass baubles, LED lighting, recycled candles, and plastic-free toys.
Louise expressed her pride in the teams: “We are thrilled for Brimsmore Gardens’ remarkable achievement, especially having won the top prize twice in four years. Poundbury Gardens’ second-place finish is equally impressive. As the industry continually raises the bar with creativity and sustainability, these awards celebrate the dedication and passion of everyone involved at The Gardens Group.”
Visitors can experience the festive magic at Brimsmore Gardens, Castle Gardens, and Poundbury Gardens, open daily until Christmas Eve.