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On a warm summer’s day on the 17th of July, Glastonbury proudly welcomed Camilla Basset-Smith, judge from South West in Bloom, to showcase the very best of our vibrant, green, and community-spirited town. Months of hard work by volunteers, local businesses, schools, and the Town Council came together in a beautifully coordinated judging route and a compelling portfolio that reflected not only floral excellence but also Glastonbury’s deep-rooted commitment to sustainability, wellbeing, and heritage.
Camilla began her morning at Cavendish Lodge, where she met residents Jane and Myra, and Manager John, before moving on to St. Margaret’s Chapel, welcomed by volunteers Ark and Jessie. The walk along Magdalene Street offered views of the Town Hall and the ongoing St. Dunstan’s House development, reflecting our town’s evolving civic spaces.
Camilla was then treated to the peaceful grounds of Glastonbury Abbey, guided by Senior Gardener Ian, and a character in full medieval dress, followed by a stroll through the High Street leading to Glastonbury Galleries and the Assembly Rooms, where owner Ruth shared the story behind her creative, recycled window displays.
Camilla’s visit to St. John’s Infant School, where she met Headteacher Mrs Devane and enthusiastic young gardeners from the school’s gardening club, was a true delight. From there, Camilla viewed St. John’s Square and the War Memorial, before concluding the morning judging route at Glastonbury Tribunal, hosted by garden volunteers Pauline and Mark.
In the afternoon, Camilla made brief visits to two hidden gems: the Dahlia mural at the Heart of the Tribe Gallery and a secret garden at the Marchant Buildings, before concluding at the Town Hall.
A Portfolio Rooted in Peace and Community
This year’s colours were themed “White for Peace and the Symbolism of Colour,” honouring the 80th anniversary of VE Day and the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings. The colour palette—white, purple, yellow, red, pink, and orange—was carefully chosen to represent peace, remembrance, hope, courage, compassion, and endurance. These values blossomed throughout town in planters, public art, school gardens, and community spaces.
From refurbished telephone boxes and community gardens to a network of local businesses showcasing floral pride, Glastonbury in Bloom has flourished thanks to over 60 active volunteers, the dedication of our Outside Services Team, and strong backing from the Town Council and local sponsors.
Our portfolio also spotlighted sustainable practices: water conservation through rainwater harvesting, peat-free compost, upcycled materials, and a greater emphasis on permanent planting to reduce environmental impact.
You can find a copy of our portfolio here.
More Than Just Flowers
Glastonbury in Bloom represents more than beautiful displays. It strengthens community bonds, enhances mental wellbeing, and engages residents of all ages—from school children designing posters on the theme of “Peace” to local gardeners proudly entering the annual Residents’ Competition.
The town’s participation in South West in Bloom helps promote civic pride, supports tourism and local enterprise, and provides lasting educational and environmental benefits.
A Blooming Future
Glastonbury Town Council is proud to support Glastonbury in Bloom as a central part of its wider commitment to community wellbeing, climate responsibility, and place-making. With our ambitious vision—achieving carbon neutrality by 2030—we will continue to plant, grow, and inspire together.
As always, our thanks go to the tireless volunteers, local businesses, community groups, and sponsors who make Glastonbury in Bloom such a flourishing success. We eagerly await the results of this year’s judging and continue to cultivate a town that reflects the harmony, heritage, and hope of Glastonbury.