A community garden in Northallerton is marking a decade of growth as a shared space where people and nature can thrive.
Northallerton Secret Garden, based behind the United Reformed Church, began 10 years ago as an overgrown and inaccessible patch of land.
Garden volunteers said: “It is humbling to see how it has grown and evolved, developing a life of its own, whilst remaining true to our original aims of creating a therapeutic space for people, increasing biodiversity and sharing organically grown fruit and veg with others.”
Northallerton Secret Garden is celebrating its 10th anniversary after transforming an overgrown site into a thriving community space for people, wildlife and organic food growing (Image: Supplied)
The garden now serves as a peaceful green haven, filled with wildlife and fresh produce, and is used regularly by groups from across the community.
It has also inspired similar projects, such as the Incredible Edible Northallerton Gardens, which offer public spaces where people can sit, relax, and pick fresh fruit and vegetables.
Visitors are encouraged to call in during open sessions, which take place from 10am to 12pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout spring, summer, and autumn, weather permitting.
Northallerton Secret Garden is celebrating its 10th anniversary after transforming an overgrown site into a thriving community space for people, wildlife and organic food growing (Image: Supplied)
Gardening sessions are also held on Mondays and Thursdays from 2pm to 4pm.
The garden closes during December and January.
Volunteers describe the garden as a place built on generosity, enthusiasm, and hard work—a true “place for sharing” where both people and wildlife can flourish.
The transformation from a neglected space once associated with drug and alcohol misuse to a thriving, biodiverse garden has been a “pleasure and privilege” to witness.
Northallerton Secret Garden is celebrating its 10th anniversary after transforming an overgrown site into a thriving community space for people, wildlife and organic food growing (Image: Supplied)
The team said: “At Zion United Reformed Church, we wanted to combine our love for our local community with our love for this beautiful world on which we all depend.
“Through nurturing and caring for a garden and its wildlife, we knew it could be a healing place for volunteers and visitors alike.”
Located down the alleyway between Kitsons and Ramsdens on Northallerton High Street, the garden sits to the left of the church building.
Anyone interested in volunteering or referring groups to use the garden is encouraged to get in touch.
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