A Cumbrian-based former royal gardener has been inspired by a visit to Sandringham House.
Matthew Murgatroyd, who previously worked at Highgrove as deputy head gardener, is now head gardener at Holker Hall and Gardens in South Cumbria.
He was invited to an RHS Partner Garden event at Sandringham House, which brought together horticultural experts from across the country to share knowledge, celebrate collaboration, and discuss the future of horticulture at some of Britain’s most significant gardens.
Partner Gardens, which include Holker Hall, are recognised for their horticultural excellence and outstanding visitor experience.
The event at Sandringham provided a valuable opportunity for Matthew to connect with fellow professionals, exchange ideas, and bring fresh inspiration back to Holker.
Matthew said the visit was particularly meaningful.
He added: “It was a real privilege to return to a royal estate and see the incredible developments at Sandringham since the King’s accession.
“The last time I visited, the topiary garden had just been planted, and I was advising on its establishment. It was wonderful to see how beautifully it has settled, with the borders now in full bloom.”
The event included a tour of the gardens and was attended by the RHS Woody Plant Expert Group, led by renowned plantsman Tony Kirkham MBE VMH — a leading authority on trees and woody plants, best known for his distinguished career at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Matthew added: “It was great to be reunited with former colleagues, including my former boss Debs Goodenough, now a member of the RHS Woody Plant Panel.
“We shared fond memories of working together at Highgrove, reminisced about Holker, and of course swapped ideas for the future. Sandringham has a similar feel to Holker in terms of its plant collections and woodland areas, so it was particularly valuable to spend time with fellow experts and explore solutions to common challenges.”
