Manchester is blooming brilliant – don’t just take our word for it

Manchester is blossoming—literally.

From alleyways to viaducts, local residents, businesses, and community groups are transforming urban spaces into beautiful  gardens through the In Bloom campaign, an offshoot of the national RHS Britain in Bloom initiative.

With a focus on sustainability, biodiversity, and community pride, Manchester’s green revolution is making headlines—and an impact.

This year’s Northwest in Bloom and It’s Your Neighbourhood awards celebrated the city’s unsung heroes who’ve rejuvenated everything from small plots to iconic landmarks.

With 125 entries and 121 participating groups, the competition was fierce, but the results are stunning.

Green champions of Manchester

Among the standout winners is Maggie’s Manchester in Withington, a cancer support centre awarded Level 5 – Outstanding (Gold) and Best Hospice/Hospital.

Known for its tranquil gardens, Maggie’s offers more than just greenery—it provides solace to those facing life’s toughest challenges. Volunteers have created a peaceful sanctuary where patients and visitors can reflect, recharge, and, importantly, garden.

Meanwhile, the Plant Co-operative NOMA Gardens, another Level 5 – Outstanding (Gold) recipient, took home the NWIB Gardening for Wildlife Award and Pride of Manchester (Joint). Nestled in the heart of the NOMA estate, this group is reimagining the city’s landscape, fostering biodiversity with wildlife-friendly planters and public gardening events. Their mission: to create green spaces that invite both people and pollinators to thrive.

Perhaps the most striking transformation is the Castlefield Viaduct project, a collaboration between the Castlefield Forum and the National Trust. This urban oasis, which also earned Level 5 – Outstanding (Gold) and Pride of Manchester (Joint), breathes new life into the historic viaduct. Once a disused railway bridge, it now teems with lush greenery—a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when heritage and horticulture intersect.

Regional success stories

Manchester’s success extended to the regional Northwest in Bloom awards. The city scooped up top honours:

• Levenshulme Ward: Silver
• Didsbury Ward: Gold, Best Urban Community
• Manchester City Centre: Gold, Best Large City

Cultivating community spirit with RHS Britain in Bloom

But the In Bloom campaign isn’t just about planting flowers—it’s about planting pride.

“It’s amazing to see what can be achieved when community groups and organisations like the National Trust come together with a shared vision,” said Gary Rumens of Castlefield Clean & Green.

“These awards aren’t just accolades—they’re a testament to the commitment we have to making Castlefield a vibrant, green space that benefits everyone.”

Lee-Ann Igbon, Executive Member for Vibrant Neighbourhoods, echoed this sentiment. “The winners this year have exemplified the power of community spirit,” she said. “From Maggie’s Manchester to the Plant Co-operative, these projects are reshaping our neighbourhoods. The In Bloom initiative is open to everyone—if there’s a neglected space, we’ll help it blossom.”

A greener future for Manchester

The campaign’s success points to a growing movement: a city determined to weave sustainability into its urban fabric. Whether through council support, gardening advice, or funding, Manchester is cultivating more than green spaces—it’s fostering connections between people, businesses, and wildlife.

As Manchester’s streets and parks continue to bloom, the city sets a new standard for urban greening. With initiatives like In Bloom, the future is bright—and green—for generations to come.

In Bloom Manchester

For those inspired to get involved, more information can be found at In Bloom Manchester by clicking here