The Lost Gardens of Heligan voted ‘Britain’s Finest Garden’

The winners of the first-ever annual Countryfile Magazine Awards were announced last week, revealing that the magical Gardens and Cornish Estate, had been named by readers as Britain's finest gardens.

The Countryfile Magazine Awards 2011 are a celebration of our countryside and its people. The awards were launched in the April issue of Countryfile Magazine and feature 10 categories, from conservation projects and food heroes to country writers and our finest nature reserves.

In each of the ten categories, a panel of experts drew up a shortlist of candidates. The awards were then voted for by readers of the magazine and members of the public via post, email and on the Countryfile Magazine website, www.countryfile.com. 

The timing of the award, is another honour in a historic year for the gardens which are celebrating 21 years since their re-discovery. Only two weeks ago the Gardens featured in a special edition of Natural World: Secrets of the Lost Gardens on BBC2.

Peter Stafford, MD of The Lost Gardens of Heligan commented: “We are both delighted and honoured to receive this award from such a prestigious magazine. It represents such an excellent recognition for all the input that our staff have contributed over the years. Our commitment to the wildlife on our estate is also an important part of our work, so we greatly value this relationship with Countryfile.”

Lorna Tremayne, Design and Marketing Manager said; "Heligan is experiencing a fantastic year. We are celebrating our 21st anniversary, last week's BBC2 show, Secrets of The Lost Garden, achieved much public acclaim and now we have won this prestigious award. It's a tribute to the team here at Heligan and what they achieve every day."