5 June 2025 –
An Open Gardens weekend at the Sandridge Park estate, held on Saturday 31st May and Sunday 1st June 2025, was a resounding success, raising an incredible £20,000 in support of LandWorks.
Over two gloriously sunny days, 695 visitors explored 10 acres of beautifully restored formal gardens, walled gardens, orchards, and woodland walks on the 110-acre estate overlooking the River Dart.
Attendees enjoyed homemade teas and cakes, picnics on the lawns, and the opportunity to purchase handcrafted wood and ceramic items made by LandWorks participants, with all proceeds contributing to the charity. The amount raised included entrance fees, product and refreshment sales, and two very generous match funding donations totalling £6,500.
The event was organised by Sandridge Park’s owners Mark and Rosemary Yallop, their family and friends, and supported by an enthusiastic team of LandWorks employees, trainees, graduates, trustees, supporters and volunteers, who stepped forward to bake cakes, man the stalls and marshal the cars.
Sandridge Park has a long and interesting history. At one point owned by Sir Walter Raleigh, it was developed in the early 19th century when Lady Ashburton commissioned one of the foremost architects of the time, John Nash, to build the Grade 2* listed house that still stands today. Requisitioned by US forces during World War 2 to prepare for D-Day, the estate was acquired by the Yallops in 2006. It has been lovingly restored since then, with Country Life Magazine describing it as having had an “inspirational renaissance”
“We were delighted that the weekend was such a success,” Rosemary and Mark Yallop commented. “The enthusiasm of the LandWorks team was infectious and it was lovely to see so many visitors of all ages enjoying the garden and grounds to the full in the summer sunshine. Many friends and contacts also contributed, and we are so grateful to them all for their help over the two days. It was a privilege to be able to support LandWorks’ incredible work in this way.”
Chris Parsons, LandWorks Director, added: “It was an incredible weekend. The funds raised will make a real difference to the charity. As well as supporting the costs of trainee placements this year, it means that we can invest in much needed new equipment for the wood workshop. We are immensely grateful to Mark and Rosemary and to everyone who contributed to this successful event.”
