RHS Harlow Carr celebrates record 500,000th visitor in one year

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RHS Garden Harlow Carr is celebrating a milestone this week after welcoming its 500,000th visitor in a single year for the first time in the garden’s history.

Harlow Carr opened in 1950 and became part of the RHS gardening charity in 2001. Since then, it has never recorded 500,000 visitors in its financial year, which runs from February to February.

But that changed this week when curator Fiona Slight and visitor services manager Tom Butler surprised Elizabeth and Essam Ragheb, from Harrogate, with a free lifetime membership.

Ms Ragheb said:

“We have been RHS members for many years because of our love for gardens, wildlife, and spending time outdoors. We are delighted to have been gifted this life membership, and we especially enjoy bringing our grandchildren to RHS Harlow Carr — something we look forward to doing for many happy years ahead.”

The garden said in a press release today it was experiencing a period of “exceptional growth”, which reflected increased interest in gardening, nature, and wellbeing.

Liz Thwaite, head of site, said:

“Reaching half a million visitors is an extraordinary milestone for RHS Harlow Carr and a testament to the deep connection people have with this beautiful garden. It reflects the importance of green spaces in our lives and the role they play in bringing joy, peace and inspiration."

RHS Garden Harlow Carr has expanded its landscapes, visitor experiences and educational offerings over the last 25 years.

Features include the Montague-Burton Teaching Garden and Kitchen Garden, the Bramall Learning Centre and the Thaliana Bridge over Queen Mother’s Lake,

More recently, the Harrogate Arms building has been restored and reopened as a café.

Ms Slight said:

“Looking ahead, RHS Garden Harlow Carr has exciting developments in store that will enhance the visitor experience and strengthen its role as a community and horticultural destination. The streamside area will continue to be revitalised, with further planting enhancements, improved paths and interpretation to enrich this iconic part of the garden and make it even more inspiring for visitors of all ages.”