Community collaboration at Dr Joy's Garden, Alnmouth

This beautiful memorial garden overlooking Alnmouth estuary was created with a generous gift by Dr Joy (1937-2004), long-time visitor, local resident, and friend of Alnmouth. The landscaping of the garden included resurfacing, and re-siting of a carved stone compass.   

The Northumberland Conservation Team has supported the local regular volunteers with a spring clean which involved cutting back and removing dead and overgrown plants and replanting with a mix of more native species. Seeds from plants native to the dunes and local area are being grown in readiness for planting this summer. 

A new interpretation panel replaces the existing information board and was overseen by the National Landscape team. This includes information about wildlife and history, highlighting things that can be seen from the garden and including a map to help visitors explore the rest of the village.  

Dr Joy’s Garden is cared for by Alnmouth Parish Council and local volunteers, and they manage the site on behalf of the community. New plants have been funded through Dr Joy’s legacy, which is administered by the Parish Council and supports all upkeep. 

Local resident and volunteer Martin Shingler said: "The National Landscape's refurbishment of Dr Joy's Garden in Alnmouth has transformed a tired, overgrown and broken-down spot into somewhere visitors can pause, reflect and take in the breathtaking natural beauty of this location. The new fencing, hard surfacing and expanded information panel have not only smartened up the site but also made it safer for people with mobility issues, who now can more fully appreciate the history, flora and unique qualities of this vital part of the Northumberland coastline."

The garden provides a beautiful resting spot for visitors and locals alike to take in the views and tranquillity at this special place in the National Landscape.