Arundel Castle shortlisted for top garden award

One of Sussex's most famous castles is calling on the local community to help it secure a prestigious award.

Arundel Castle, which covers 38 acres of land, is bidding to win its first-ever Historic Houses Garden of the Year Award.

The national award, founded in 1984, celebrates Britain's most spectacular gardens and the winner is decided by public vote.

Martin Duncan, head gardener and landscape designer at Arundel Castle, said being shortlisted was a "wonderful recognition of the dedication that goes into the gardens".

"We take great pride in creating something visitors of all ages can enjoy and be inspired by," he added.

The castle's grounds features the world-renowned Tulip Festival in spring, and has specific areas including the English Herbaceous and Tropical borders, as well as a diverse collection of specimen trees.

Mr Duncan says the grounds also includes the Rose Garden, White Garden, Collector Earl's Garden, Organic Kitchen Garden, Wildflower Garden, the award-winning Water Gardens and the Stumpery Gardens.

"It's a real honour to represent Sussex in this national award, and we'd be incredibly grateful to anyone who can spare a moment to cast a vote for us," Mr Duncan added.

The castle was built at the end of the 11th century by Roger de Montgomery, the Earl of Arundel.

Nominations for the Historic Houses Garden of the Year Award close on 31 August.

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