String of Golden Rose awards wins for Knaresborough as community goes 'above and beyond'

A famous Knaresborough pub has been hailed for “going above and beyond” after the town’s remarkable haul of top awards in this year’s Yorkshire in Bloom competition.

Knaresborough’s impressive floral efforts were recognised across the board, with awards for community projects, local business, and public spaces.

Knaresborough in Bloom walked away with Five Roses in the prestigious Golden Rose category while Blind Jack’s pub received Five Hops in the Golden Hop category.

Adding to the town’s success, both Knaresborough Castle and Conyngham Hall were awarded Platinum, the highest accolade in their respective categories.

Hannah Gostlow, chair of Knaresborough in Bloom, said “These fantastic results recognise the hard work of volunteers, community groups, businesses and organisations who work throughout the year to make Knaresborough a beautiful town that everyone can be proud of.

“Knaresborough is an historic market town on the banks of the River Nidd with the iconic viaduct the subject of many photos.

"The High Street and Market Place were festooned with colourful and well-maintained planters.

"It was good to see some more unusual bedding plants used in the containers such as scented pelargoniums, which was a nice touch.

"There was good support from businesses across the town particularly from the pub trade – Blind Jacks, Thee Groves Inn and The Crown, to name but a few.”

Knaresborough in Bloom organisers were full of praise for Conyngham Hall, Knaresborough Castle and Blind Jack’s, in particular.

“Blind Jack’s went above and beyond in its contribution to the appearance and character of the town, putting considerable time, effort and creativity into its floral displays and the presentation of its premises,” said Hannah Gostlow.

The 2026 Yorkshire in Bloom awards took place in Tadcaster last week following judging during the summer at villages, towns and cities across Yorkshire.

Hannah Gostlow said: "The In Bloom judges look at much more than floral displays, and I’m delighted they recognised the wider community projects and facilities that make Knaresborough such a special place to live and visit.

"It was also great to see Knaresborough in Bloom’s efforts to take a more environmentally sustainable approach recognised.”