Communities across Cumberland are celebrating a season of success following their outstanding achievements at this year’s Cumbria in Bloom Awards, marking the 40th anniversary of the competition.
After a summer of judging visits, the winning entries were honoured at a series of award ceremonies held in October across the region, including Dalston Village Hall on 13 October and at The Beacon Museum on Tuesday 14 October. These events highlighted the impressive efforts of local groups in enhancing their green spaces and fostering community pride.
Among the standout achievements this year, Whitehaven earned a Gold Medal in the ‘Pride in Your Community’ category as well as being named the Best Town In Cumbria. Whitehaven was praised for its stunning wildflower displays, strong volunteer engagement, and community pride. The town impressed judges with a remarkable score of 91 out of 100, reflecting excellence across all judging criteria.
Adding to the celebrations, Cumberland Council’s Distington Walled Garden achieved a Level 5 - Outstanding rating in the 2025 RHS It’s Your Neighbourhood award, presented jointly by Cumbria in Bloom and the Royal Horticultural Society.
Judges also visited key sites including Whitehaven Harbour and Mirehouse Pond, commending the town’s blend of rich heritage and modern innovation. Their report highlighted how Whitehaven’s approach not only celebrates its historic character but also showcases forward-thinking regeneration - using modern technology to preserve and enhance its historic assets.
The presentation of the town’s efforts was also praised for effectively promoting Whitehaven as a vibrant tourist destination, underpinned by strong partnerships with community groups and local businesses.
These remarkable achievements were the result of a strong collaborative effort involving Cumberland Council staff, local stakeholders, Whitehaven Town Council, The Rotary Club, Whitehaven Heritage Action Group, West House, Royal British Legion, Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners, Whitehaven Youth Harbour Project, Community Payback Scheme, Beckbottom Community Garden Group and Whitehaven’s Tidy Town/Ship Shapers Group, and the recent addition of Bransty Community group. The tireless commitment of those volunteers has been instrumental to Whitehaven’s success. Special recognition is also due to the RHS It’s your Neighbourhood volunteer groups, whose contributions were key to Whitehaven’s continued success in ‘Cumbria in Bloom’.
A special thanks also went to Downton Travel for their assistance in transporting the judges during their visit to the town.
Other Cumberland organisations, including Watchtree Nature Reserve, Wigton Railway Station and Holme Abbey Parish were also recognised for their outstanding contributions, each receiving well-deserved awards for their dedication and creativity.
Local Cumberland schools also celebrated success at this year’s awards, with Hallbankgate School in Brampton recognised for Enriching the Curriculum. William Howard School, also in Brampton, was named winner in the Secondary School category, while West Lakes Academy earned the distinction of runner-up in the same category.
Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
“Our Green Spaces teams work tirelessly, in all kinds of weather, to keep our parks and open areas looking their best throughout the year. I’d also like to thank everyone who’s played a part - from council staff and community groups to schools and local volunteers. Their dedication and teamwork make a real difference, helping to keep our green spaces something the whole community can be proud of”.
The council has been supporting both the Whitehaven and Workington in Bloom committees efforts with Whitehaven Town Council, Workington Town Council and other local organisations.