A wonderful recognition of more than 50 years of dedication, passion and horticultural creativity, Kentwell Hall has been named the Judges’ Choice Award winner in the prestigious Historic Houses Garden of the Year 2026 competition.
We’re delighted to announce that the gardens at Kentwell Hall have received the Judges’ Choice Award in the 2026 Historic Houses Garden of the Year competition, presented in association with Christie’s.
This prestigious award recognises outstanding gardens across the country, celebrating not only their horticultural excellence and beauty, but also the dedication, care and commitment that goes into creating and maintaining them.
For Kentwell Hall, it represents more than five decades of hard work, passion and a shared love of the gardens by successive gardeners, staff and volunteers.
A garden shaped by centuries of history
The gardens at Kentwell Hall are a wonderful reflection of the history of the house and the people who have cared for it over the years. Each generation has left its mark, creating the distinctive country house garden that visitors can enjoy today.
From the beautiful Walled Garden, featuring more than 60 varieties each of espaliered apple and pear trees, to the magnificent eighteenth-century yews and nineteenth-century cedars, there is something to discover around every corner.
The topiary and other garden features introduced by Patrick and Judith Phillips have added further character, creating a landscape that combines historic charm with thoughtful planting and design.
More than 50 years of passion and dedication
When Patrick and Judith Phillips purchased Kentwell Hall in 1971, the gardens were in a neglected condition, with evidence of the site's previous use by the army.
Since then, an enormous amount of work has gone into restoring and developing the grounds. Thousands of spring bulbs have been planted, significant landscaping and planting schemes have been undertaken, and more than 100 trees have been introduced.
For over 50 years, Judith Phillips has led the gardening team, working alongside paid staff and a wonderful group of volunteers to nurture and develop the gardens.
Their approach has always been about more than simply creating a beautiful landscape. The gardens are managed using organic principles, allowing wildlife to flourish alongside the planting and ensuring that nature remains an important part of the Kentwell experience.
Recognition for the people behind the gardens
The Historic Houses judges were particularly impressed by the horticultural creativity and long-term commitment shown at Kentwell, as well as the involvement of the local community.
Ursula Cholmley, representing the award judges, commented:
“The Judges Choice Award for the Garden of the Year recognises outstanding horticulture, a long-term commitment and change to a garden, sometimes over a lifetime. We were so impressed by the landscaping and horticultural creativity in your garden and were particularly taken by your commitment to the community and their involvement with such a beautiful place. We are delighted to offer you this award.”
Judith Phillips was equally delighted with the recognition, saying:
“We’re delighted to be the Judges’ Choice this year. This is 50 years of love of the gardens from successive gardeners and volunteers. And it is still evolving today with our current team doing a wonderful job.”
Come and discover the gardens at Kentwell Hall
The Historic Houses Garden of the Year Award has been presented annually since 1984 and recognises some of the country's most spectacular gardens, celebrating their horticultural importance and appeal to the public.
For everyone at Kentwell Hall, this award is a wonderful acknowledgement of the people who have helped shape the gardens over the years and those who continue to care for them today.
Whether you're interested in historic gardens, beautiful planting, mature trees or simply enjoy spending time in the outdoors, the gardens at Kentwell Hall offer a lovely opportunity to explore a landscape shaped by centuries of history and generations of gardeners.
We look forward to welcoming you to Kentwell Hall so you can discover our award-winning gardens for yourself.
Find out more about visiting Kentwell Hall
