A record number of Carlisle parks and green spaces have achieved top national awards and are some of the best green spaces in England and Wales.

The ‘Magnificent Seven’ are: Bitts Park, Carlisle Cemetery grounds, Hammond’s Pond, Kingmoor Nature Reserve, Talkin Tarn Country Park, Tullie House Gardens and Stanwix Churchyard.

The winners of the 2010/11 Green Flag Award, the national standard for parks and green spaces, were announced today (Wednesday, 28 July).

Covering more than 18 acres, it is the eighth time Bitts Park has been awarded a Green Flag. Hammond’s Pond has also been granted the distinction for the sixth time, it is the fifth time that Kingmoor Nature Reserve has received the award and Carlisle Cemetery and Tullie House are four time winners. Stanwix Churchyard has retained their award for the second time. Talkin Tarn is a winner, after entering the competition for the first time.

Carlisle City Cllr Ray Bloxham, Portfolio holder for Local Environment, said:

“The Green Flag awards are another stamp of approval for Carlisle and its green spaces. Within the county, we are leading the way with a staggering seven awards, including Talkin Tarn, for the first time.

“This year’s awards are testament to the countless hours of hard work put in by the Council’s grounds staff. They ensure that we have areas of great beauty and tranquillity that benefit our residents and visitors alike. Well done to all concerned.”

The Green Flag Award scheme is the national standard for parks and green spaces. It is supported by Communities and Local Government (CLG) and is now run by a consortium of Keep Britain Tidy, GreenSpace and BTCV. The scheme recognises the value of green spaces in communities, particularly urban environments, and rewards excellent standards of park management. 

For information on all winners, view information here.

Carlisle City Council is responsible for the management and maintenance of the parks and public open spaces within the Council's geographical area. Background information on each of the parks and gardens is available on request.