Cheltenham proudly celebrates seven of its parks and green spaces once again securing the prestigious Green Flag Award, distinguishing them as some of the finest in the UK. Sandford Park, Hatherley Park, Montpellier Gardens, Naunton Park, Pittville Park, Springfields Park, and Winston Churchill Memorial Garden join over 2,250 award-winning sites nationwide in being recognized for excellence.
The Green Flag Award honors the dedication and hard work of local teams, volunteers, and partners who maintain these green spaces, ensuring they remain welcoming, well-kept, and enjoyable for all visitors.
Highlighting Cheltenham’s commitment to preserving history, Pittville Park has also retained the Green Heritage Site Accreditation, jointly supported by Historic England, for its exceptional management of historical features.
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Cllr Paul Baker, cabinet member for waste, recycling, and green open spaces, expressed pride in the achievement: “It’s fantastic that seven of Cheltenham’s parks have again earned Green Flag status. This reflects the unwavering commitment of our volunteers, friends’ groups, green space teams, and Ubico’s grounds maintenance and cleansing crews who consistently maintain these spaces to the highest standards. Our sincere thanks go to everyone involved for their dedication.”
Barbara Leigh, volunteer coordinator for Friends of Pittville, expressed delight at the accolades: “Following the positive evaluation by the Green Flag ‘mystery visitor,’ we are thrilled that Pittville Park continues to hold both the Green Flag and Green Heritage Awards for 2025. Retaining this internationally recognized standard speaks volumes about the teamwork and hard work of Cheltenham Borough Council, Ubico, volunteers, and Friends of Pittville.”
Christopher Veal, volunteer coordinator for Winston Churchill Memorial Garden, shared similar sentiments: “We are extremely proud to see Winston Churchill Memorial Gardens maintain its Green Flag status for 2025/26. The park’s ongoing development and upkeep is a collaborative success between the council, Ubico, and the Friends of WCMG. It is rewarding to see our collective efforts acknowledged.”
Paul Todd MBE, manager of the Green Flag Award scheme, congratulated all involved: “These parks exemplify the high standards expected for the Green Flag Award. Quality green spaces boost health and wellbeing, strengthen communities, and offer vital, accessible outdoor areas—especially important during the ongoing cost of living crisis. They provide safe, free spaces for families and visitors alike to enjoy the physical and mental benefits of nature.”
Managed by Keep Britain Tidy under license from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government, the Green Flag Award sets the benchmark for exemplary management of parks and green spaces throughout the UK and globally.