Kingfishers Garden Open Weekend Welcomes the Community and Raises £1,000 for Charity

The vibrant garden at Kingfishers care home in New Milton has once again opened its gates to the local community, welcoming nearly 100 visitors as part of the National Garden Scheme (NGS) and raising almost £1,000 for nursing and health charities.

Over the course of a sunny weekend, guests enjoyed exploring the beautiful grounds, meeting residents, and soaking up the welcoming atmosphere. Pianists and Kingfishers residents Mollie Speirs and Averil Meek performed live classical and popular music, including Tulips From Amsterdam, a fitting tribute to the garden setting.

Visitors wandered the winding paths, admired the colourful borders, and browsed a plant sale featuring flora grown in the garden. Refreshments were served throughout the day, adding to the relaxed and sociable feel of the event.

“Our garden is looking great, beautiful,” said resident Terry Brown. “It was so nice to see the locals come in and enjoy it.”

Kingfishers’ Companionship Team Leader, Rose Arcellana, added:

“We thank everyone who supported us and helped make the weekend a success. To have raised £1,000 is a wonderful achievement.”

A Garden to Be Proud Of

Kingfishers is one of three Colten Care homes recognised in the 2025 NGS summer programme. The official guide describes the Kingfishers garden as “colourful and vibrant”, featuring lavender-lined paths, a pergola, a greenhouse, a vegetable patch, and a fascinating water feature.

Residents play an active role in the garden, helping to plan seasonal displays, propagate plants, and build wildlife habitats, a reflection of the home’s strong community spirit and sense of shared ownership.

About the National Garden Scheme

The NGS supports charitable causes by opening private gardens to the public. Kingfishers’ involvement is a mark of quality and recognition for the care, attention, and love that goes into maintaining such a welcoming outdoor space.

Andy Richards, Colten Care’s Landscape and Estates Manager, said:
“NGS open days are a chance to celebrate our gardens and the people who make them thrive—residents, staff, and our dedicated gardening teams.”

Elaine Farrer, Chief Operating Officer, added:
“It’s a testament to the attention to detail and passion of our residents and gardeners that our homes are once again part of the NGS programme.”

Explore Kingfishers

Nestled in New Milton, Hampshire, and with a reputation for warm hospitality, Kingfishers care home offers residential, nursing, and respite care in a vibrant community setting, complete with beautiful gardens, live music, and a full programme of companionship and events.

You’re very welcome to arrange a visit and see it for yourself.