Following the departure of previous Head Gardener Dan Cartwright earlier this year, Winterbourne today announces the appointment of Paul Cook, who will help to further build upon the expertise and knowledge of Winterbourne’s horticultural team and develop the garden in the years to come…

Paul brings a wealth of horticultural experience to the role. He joins Winterbourne following 12 years as Curator at RHS Garden Harlow Carr, based in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. During his time with the RHS, Paul worked to expand Harlow Carr’s plant collection, developing the Woodland, Streamside and Alpine collections, as well as enhancing the garden’s accessibility. His creativity, extensive plant knowledge, and focus on enhancing the visitor experience all contributed to the incredible legacy he has left at RHS Harlow Carr.

Director of Winterbourne, Lee Hale, said: ‘I am delighted that Paul will be joining the Winterbourne team. His decades of experience curating high-profile gardens will be invaluable as we continue to develop our botanical collections and the visitor experience over the coming years.’

Early in his career, Paul spent three years studying for a Diploma at Royal Botanic Garden Kew, where he received various prizes for his practical skills, research and lecturing, as well as a scholarship to travel overseas for his research. Alongside traineeships and other opportunities early in his career, this led Paul to develop an impressive reputation across the sector, going on to work as Head Gardener at Arley Hall and Gardens and Curator at University of Liverpool’s Ness Botanic Garden.

Ahead of starting his role at Winterbourne, Paul said: ‘I have visited Winterbourne many times and always felt a real connection to the garden. I am delighted to have the opportunity to work with the team, to broaden the collection, introduce plants that will thrive in our changing climate, and promote Winterbourne to a wider audience.’

This appointment builds on the skills and expertise of Winterbourne’s horticultural team and the fantastic work done by the previous Head Gardener, Dan Cartwright. We look forward to welcoming Paul to the team and seeing the garden flourish under his leadership.