Hidden Gardens 2025 – Another successful year!

Sunday June 8th dawned dry after a drenching Saturday. A real bonus for an outdoor event in this topsy-turvy season.

Clare in Bloom welcomed visitors from near and far to their biannual Hidden Gardens of Clare event.

19 private gardens threw open their gates to everyone who flocked to see them. From wildlife to sculpture, courtyard to larger green spaces and every size in between, visitors enjoyed a huge variety of colourful plantings. The event was made extra special as half the featured gardens were making their debut.

Plant identification and growing tips were given freely to all who asked. Garden openers offered practical suggestions and insights that guests could incorporate into their own spaces.

Refreshments sweet and savoury were enjoyed in the Vicarage garden. Opportunities to buy plants to take home were around every corner.

The ice-cream pop – up was super popular on Market Hill. A secondhand stall at Sigors catered for booklovers.

The loan of the CLASP minibus to transport visitors from the Heights and Ashen Road, two of the furthest-flung gardens, along with experienced drivers, was a great help. A sunflower outside each participating garden showed they were open.

Our First Aid paramedics were not called upon to use their skills thankfully.

Nickie Carpenter, Chair of Clare in Bloom said: “We would like to thank all those who came – many thanks also to all the garden openers, volunteers and anyone who helped or sponsored us before and during the day. They all worked so hard to ensure the day was such a successful but above all a fun day. We love welcoming visitors to our gardens.”

Clare in Bloom will benefit from the proceeds, but over the last few years has donated a portion to local organisations. This year we wanted to give back to the younsters of our town – Clare Scouts, Cubs and Beavers will benefit in 2025.