Netflix and Shondaland gift Bridgerton Garden to Cambridge University Hospitals
It was a show that put a smile on many viewers’ faces when it appeared on Netflix, and now a garden inspired by Bridgerton has opened at Cambridge University Hospitals for patients, staff and visitors to enjoy.
The Bridgerton Garden won a silver medal when it made its debut at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show last year.
Designed by Holly Johnston for Netflix and production company Shondaland to celebrate the release of season three of the romantic period drama, it has now been reimagined to create a lasting gift to the hospitals and local community.
Rajiv Nathwani, VP of marketing UK at Netflix, said: “To see the Bridgerton Garden in its permanent location at Cambridge University Hospitals is a full-circle moment for us.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to know that the garden will offer a sanctuary to staff, patients and local residents. This garden is more than just a physical space; it stands as a testament to the power of storytelling to inspire connection.”
It is hoped the permanent, accessible green space in the grounds of the Rosie Hospital will help provide moments of peace and reflection. Nearly every element of the original garden – including its signature moongate, period water feature, hand-carved stone sculpture and symbolic planting – has been repurposed by the garden designer.
Holly said: “It’s an enormous privilege to relocate the Bridgerton Garden to Cambridge University Hospitals and know that this space will have such a positive impact on people’s healing. This garden was designed to tell a story of personal growth and now, as it finds its permanent home, it’s hoped that this space will continue to play a part in the diverse stories of patients, visitors and staff, offering moments of calm and connection during both joyful and challenging times.”
The design was adapted to remove level changes, with a secondary access point and a widened garden path to accommodate wheelchair users and for easy maintenance. The plant selection was refined to include lower maintenance shrubs, ornamental grasses and long-season perennials, chosen for their hardiness in a high-traffic environment.
Holly cut the ribbon on Thursday, 15 May, with Ian Walker, director of corporate affairs at Cambridge University Hospitals (CUH), and a plaque will be installed. Guests enjoyed a performance from Britten Sinfonia, who played a selection of music from Bridgerton.
Lorraine Szeremeta, chief nurse at CUH, said: “Outdoor space is so important for aiding recovering and improving mental health and wellbeing, so we are absolutely delighted to have such a beautiful environment within the heart of the hospital grounds. The Bridgerton Garden will act as a permanent, therapeutic place for our patients, families, staff and the whole hospital community to retreat to and enjoy.”
Stephen Chandler, the CUH grounds and gardens supervisor, has worked closely with Holly since the garden was initially planted in March. There are plans to involve the community and volunteers with an annual spring bulb display.
