RHS Garden Bridgewater unveils new Chinese Garden centrepiece
This weekend, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is unveiling a new landmark at RHS Garden Bridgewater in Salford, Greater Manchester.
The Yangzhou Scholars’ Garden is the new centrepiece of the seven-acre Chinese Streamside Garden.
More than eight years in the making, the garden is the result of an ambitious international collaboration of fundraising, design and craftsmanship between Yangzhou City, China Flower Association, Yangzhou Classical Garden Construction Company, the City of Salford, Greater Manchester’s Chinese community and the RHS.
Designed by Chinese landscape architects specialising in classical garden design, the Yangzhou Scholars’ Garden combines authentic classical Chinese architecture, horticulture and culture within a contemporary British garden setting.
Marcus Chilton-Jones, head of RHS Garden Bridgewater, comments on the opening:
“The opening of the Yangzhou Scholars’ Garden is a landmark moment for RHS Garden Bridgewater, for Greater Manchester and the UK. This remarkable international collaboration has created not only a beautiful garden, but a lasting symbol of friendship, cultural exchange and shared learning.”
Here from Chilton-Jones in Pro Landscaper’s August issue discussing the importance of garden tourism across the UK.
Tracy Snell, who has recently taken on the role of curator at RHS Garden Bridgewater, also comments:
“It’s a garden full of meaning and intricacies. Importantly, it can be enjoyed throughout the seasons – from spring magnolias and cherry blossom to restful summer greens and the vibrant autumn colour of acers, ginkgos and euonymus.”
More than 200 trees and shrubs representing 56 species and cultivars have been selected for the garden for their seasonal beauty and cultural significance, with planting conveying traditional messages of good luck, health, happiness and love.
To mark the public opening, RHS Garden Bridgewater will host a programme of activities on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September 2026.