The Dry Bed Garden and Our Role in Stonehouse in Bloom’s ‘Gold’ Award
At Stonehouse Court Hotel, we’ve always been passionate about preserving our natural environment and playing a role in the local community. This year, our efforts were recognised in a big way as our collaboration on the town’s 'Dry Bed Garden' helped Stonehouse in Bloom secure ‘Gold’ in the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) Britain in Bloom competition!
Our team, including the incredibly talented gardeners Dave Bence and Neil Coombes, worked alongside volunteers from Sartorius Stedim Ltd and the wonderful Stonehouse in Bloom team. Together, we transformed a dry, unassuming area opposite the town hall into a biodiverse garden that not only looks beautiful but also serves a practical purpose. The garden was designed to thrive in hot, dry conditions – no small feat given our changing climate. The drought-resistant plants that Dave and Neil carefully selected have created a space that promotes sustainability while offering a stunning centrepiece for the community to enjoy.
Stonehouse and Sustainability
One of the highlights of the project for us was when the RHS judges stayed at Stonehouse Court in July. After a relaxing evening here, they were taken on a guided tour of the town by Stonehouse in Bloom. Naturally, this included the Dry Bed Garden, but they also explored the wildlife corridor that runs along the canal behind our hotel. This connection between nature and our community is something we’re incredibly proud to support.
We’ve long been committed to sustainable practices here at Stonehouse Court, so when the opportunity arose to be part of such an eco-friendly initiative, it was a no-brainer. This is more than just a garden – it’s a step toward a more environmentally conscious future. It allows the community to enjoy vibrant, water-efficient landscaping, while demonstrating how sustainable gardening can help protect our precious resources.
The Golden Thoughts of GM Maz Jurko
The recognition from Britain in Bloom is the cherry on top of what has been a deeply rewarding experience for everyone involved. But for us, the real victory is in seeing how this garden – and the collaboration behind it – has brought people together. As General Manager, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Stonehouse in Bloom for inviting us to be part of this project, as well as to the council and all the volunteers who made it possible. You’ve all done a brilliant job, and we’re thrilled to have played a part.
The Dry Bed Garden’s centrepiece, a stunning Kingfisher sculpture designed by Russell Haines and inspired by Greta Thunberg, has been a focal point for visitors. This artwork first came to Stonehouse as part of the Kingfisher Trail in 2021, and it has since become a symbol of climate action – something that resonates with everything we do at Stonehouse Court.
As we move forward, I hope our little garden project will inspire others in our community to embrace sustainable gardening. Whether you're planting drought-tolerant species or finding new ways to reduce water use, every small step can make a big difference.
Book your stay at Stonehouse Court Hotel and take a moment to explore the Dry Bed Garden. It’s a quiet reminder that when we work together with nature, the results can be truly golden.
