About Us
The Story of Cumbria in Bloom
Since 1983, Cumbria in Bloom has been inspiring communities to transform their surroundings through the power of horticulture and environmental care. What started as a small initiative has blossomed into a respected charity (Registered No 1117828 since 2007), championing the beauty of our region.
Our mission? To encourage individuals, groups, and organisations throughout Cumbria to take part in competitions that enhance local spaces. Whether through stunning floral displays, thoughtful landscaping, or eco-friendly initiatives.
Following Britain in Bloom’s campaign guidelines, our expert judges visit projects each summer, offering constructive feedback and celebrating achievements. The highlight is a prestigious awards ceremony later in the year, where we showcase the dedication of participants and nominate standouts for the national Britain in Bloom competition.
How you can get involved
There are plenty of ways to support Cumbria in Bloom:
Sponsor us – Help fund our work and make a lasting impact
Donate – Every contribution helps us reach more communities, and Gift Aid can make your donation go even further!
Join us – Become a member, trustee, or volunteer, and be part of something truly rewarding.
Attend our events – Get inspired, learn from experts, and meet like-minded people.
If you are interested in taking part in our competitions or wish to support Cumbria in Bloom in any way, please contact our administrator, Helen Sale – cumbriainbloom@outlook.com
Get Involved
Volunteer, Membership, Judging
About RHS
&
Britain In Bloom
Britain in Bloom is the largest horticultural campaign in the UK. First held in 1963 and initiated by the then British Tourist Board it followed a French model started in 1959.
In 2002 the Royal Horticultural Society which was established in 1804 and claims to be “the world’s largest gardening charity” took over the control of Britain in Bloom.
The RHS quotes its charitable purpose as
“The encouragement and improvement of the science, art and practice of horticulture in all its branches”
As the Britain in Bloom campaign is all about communities and people the RHS statement has been translated to inform the three core pillars that underpin how entries are judged: Horticultural Excellence; Environmental Responsibility; and Community Participation.
For those taking part in Britain in Bloom the judging process focuses on these and performance is measured against the RHS medal standards of Gold, Silver Gilt, Silver; and Bronze.
Whilst the “Bloom” title is still widely recognised it is now somewhat misleading as the emphasis is much more on how all sectors of the local community are managing their local environment. So things have to look good but there needs to be so much more for judges to take account of for top medals to be awarded.
For Cumbria’s nominated entrants into Britain in Bloom the challenge is considerable. Our local judging follows the same criteria but national judges are more insistent on applying the standards rigidly which means participants’ preparation has to be thorough.
The benefit, though, is that the process develops a much greater understanding of good practices and how to achieve them. The rewards are national recognition which the communities can use for significant impact on promoting their qualities to the wider country and for giving their residents and businesses a real feel-good factor.
“The encouragement and improvement of the science, art and practice of horticulture in all its branches”
