What We Do

Cultivating Connections, Growing Together:

The British Gardens Association

British Garden Association’s Mission

At the British Gardens Association, we aim unite and support gardens across the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. Our mission is to promote gardens tourism and their beauty and heritage to increase visitors. Through this organisation, research, advocacy, events, and sharing best practices, we empower public gardens to cultivate thriving, accessible green spaces for everyone to enjoy.

“Garden tourism ranks as the 3rd most popular activity for international visitors*, surpassing museums and historic sites. Join us in making our gardens top global tourism destinations.”

— Richard Benfield, British Gardens Association

*Source: Data from Visit Britain 2013

What We’ve Achieved

1. Industry Collaboration

  • Continue to gain support and focus from directors of major UK public gardens and garden tourism experts

2. Advocacy and Awareness

  • Successfully lobbied for garden tourism association to be created, and gained support at national and regional levels. This also includes support from APGA (American Public Gardens Association) to create mutual value between US and US associations.

3. Educational Initiatives

  • Hosted first conference and workshops, promoting the knowledge sharing and best practices across the garden tourism sector.