Castle Grounds and Stoke Park awarded coveted Green Flag award
These two green spaces have been officially recognised as among the country's best parks. The sites are among 2,300 in the UK to achieve the award. It is the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.
The Green Flag Award scheme recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces. The scheme is managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy.
The criteria for the award covers all aspects of park management such as:
- community involvement,
- biodiversity,
- cleanliness,
- maintenance
- and making sure parks are clean and safe for visitors.
Lead Councillor for Environment and Sustainability at Guildford Borough Council, Cllr Angela Goodwin, said:
"We're delighted that Guildford Castle Grounds and Stoke Park have once again been recognised with Green Flag Awards.
"These awards are a testament to the dedication, expertise and hard work of our Parks and Countryside teams, who work throughout the year to ensure our residents and visitors can enjoy welcoming, safe and beautiful places to spend time outdoors.
"Our parks play an important role in supporting wildlife, encouraging healthy lifestyles and bringing communities together. We're proud that these treasured green spaces continue to meet the high standards expected of a Green Flag Award winner."
Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Manager at Keep Britain Tidy, said:
"Parks are essential public spaces that support our wellbeing, our communities and our economy. Yet for millions of people, particularly in the most deprived areas, local parks simply don't feel safe or welcoming.
"With public services under pressure, investing in parks is not a luxury, it's a practical, preventative solution and one of the most visible ways to improve people's quality of life.
"Guildford Borough Council have shown what can be achieved when parks are properly supported and managed. As we celebrate 30 years of the Green Flag Award, we want every community to have access to green spaces like this that are safe, welcoming and maintained to a high standard.
"Congratulations to everyone involved."
Judges praised Stoke Park as "a tremendous asset" for Guildford residents and visitors. They highlighted:
- the exceptional range of facilities,
- the beautifully maintained ornamental gardens,
- the positive management of the park's woodland,
- and open spaces for both people and nature.
They described the park as offering "some of the best leisure and greenspace provisions" in the town. They commended the dedication of the team that has helped the site achieve Green Flag status for many years.
The assessment also recognised the care and attention given to the park's heritage and biodiversity. Judges noted the "massive amount of effort and care" invested in maintaining the rose garden and wider horticultural displays. They praised ongoing work to protect mature trees and wildlife habitats. Also highlighted was the park's diverse planting schemes, which provide year-round seasonal interest.
We're committed to caring for the local environment. We manage more than 50 countryside sites, 65 parks and gardens and over 30 playgrounds across the borough. Guildford Castle Grounds and Stoke Park continue to provide valuable spaces for:
- recreation,
- relaxation,
- nature conservation
- and community events throughout the year.
Find out more about our parks and green spaces here.
Published on: 14 July 2026.