NEWBURY IN BLOOM 2026 ENTRIES NOW OPEN!
The popular Newbury in Bloom campaign is back for 2026, and entries are now officially open. Residents, businesses, schools, and community groups are encouraged to start planning their displays and register to take part in this much-loved annual celebration of gardening and community pride.
The closing date for entries is Friday 25 May 2026, with judging set to take place during the week beginning 22 June 2026.
2026 Categories:
- Neighbourhood (groups of 5 or more properties, including Almshouses & canal boats)
- Community Projects (Any community or group collaborating on a project)
- Front Garden (residents)
- Places of Worship or Assembly
- Allotment
- Miniature Garden (small displays, window boxes, hanging baskets, maximum size 1m x 1m
- Business Premises
- Schools
Cllr Ian Jee, Chair of the Council’s Green Spaces Working Group, shared his excitement for the upcoming competition saying, “Newbury in Bloom continues to grow stronger each year, and we are incredibly proud of the passion and creativity shown by our local community. We warmly encourage both returning participants and new entrants to get involved. It’s wonderful to see new groups joining us, and we look forward to seeing the inspiring projects they will bring to life.”
He added, “With fantastic prizes available, now is the perfect time to roll up your sleeves, pick up your gardening tools, and get planting. This year, we’ve added a new category – Best Front Garden – so even more people can get involved and show off their outdoor spaces!”
Newbury Town Council remains committed to working closely with residents and community organisations to support local projects and recognise their achievements. The campaign aims to enhance the town’s appearance, promote horticultural excellence, and help create a greener, cleaner, and more welcoming environment for all.
The success of local entries will also play an important role in supporting Newbury’s participation in the Thames & Chilterns in Bloom 2026 competition where last year Newbury won a Silver Gilt Award and, for the first time, proudly took home the Best Large Town Trophy.
Cllr Jee also expressed appreciation for this year’s sponsors, “We are very grateful for the continued support of The Yew Tree Garden Centre, Rivar Sand & Gravel Ltd, Sundog Hire, John O’Conner Grounds Maintenance Ltd and Greentips, whose generous sponsorship and prizes make this event possible.”
Awards will recognise both new and ongoing projects of all sizes. Those wishing to take part can find full details on the Newbury Town Council website https://www.newbury.gov.uk/services/newbury-in-bloom/ , email newburyinbloom@newbury.gov.uk, or call 01635 35486.
Newbury Town Council is also pleased to continue its partnership with John O’Conner (Grounds Maintenance) Ltd, who maintain the town’s green spaces, playgrounds, and cemeteries.
Their work — including grass cutting, hedge maintenance, and litter collection — ensures Newbury’s public areas remain in excellent condition throughout the year.
Floral displays will once again brighten recreation grounds and open spaces across the town. Victoria Park, widely regarded as Newbury’s “jewel in the crown,” will feature vibrant seasonal planting, rose beds, and colourful shrubs. As in previous years, more than 100 hanging baskets will be installed across the town, including at Shaw and Newtown Road Cemeteries, in partnership with Windowflowers Limited.
Let’s make Newbury bloom once again — we look forward to seeing your colourful and creative entries in 2026!
Contacts
James Heasman, Parks & Open Spaces Officer james.heasman@newbury.gov.uk 07775 434475
Cllr Ian Jee, NTC Green Spaces Working Group ian.jee@newbury.gov.uk
