Looking After Parks, Gardens and Landscapes

Our technical guidance on how to care for and manage historic parks, gardens and landscapes.

  • Parks, Cemeteries, Urban Spaces

    Guidance on the conservation of our public parks and green space heritage.

  • Maintenance and Repair

    In caring for, or managing change in parks, gardens and landscapes, there are many features, historic layers and diverse interests to consider.

  • Tree Management

    The care and conservation of trees within a wide range of historic environments is an important responsibility.

  • Veteran Trees

    The British Isles are of European importance for the number of extremely old trees which survive in the landscape.

  • Hedges

    Hedgerows are often considered one of the quintessential ingredients of the English countryside.

  • Pests and Diseases

    How to monitor and manage the endless variety of pests and diseases which feed on trees and shrubs.

  • Lakes and Water Features

    Lakes are often the major design feature of historic parks & gardens. Their care and management is often complex and costly.

  • Allotments, Orchards and Nurseries

    Historic features like allotments, areas of small rented garden plots, orchards and nurseries still survive in our towns and cities, and villages.

  • Other Garden Features

    How to care for and maintain historic garden features such as lakes, water features, rockwork, grottoes and moats.

  • Opening Sites, and Events

    Advice on: Opening up historic parks for schools and visitors. Planning for large scale events. Falconry displays. Fireworks, bonfires & sky lanterns.

  • Green Flag Award Scheme

    The Green Flag award scheme is the national benchmark standard for parks and green spaces.