Known locally as the TV Gardens, the garden opens for afternoon commemorations on Friday 12 September from 1-4pm at Thrive, Birmingham in Kings Heath Park. Visitors can explore the garden’s rich history and beauty as they tour the gardens, with refreshments and plant sales on offer to help plant some green wellbeing into their lives.
Thrive, Birmingham was awarded £250,000 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund in support of projects that connect people and communities with the UK’s heritage. Made possible by money raised by National Lottery players, the funds have secured and sustained the gardens for future generations.
The inspirational two-year project maintained the integrity of the original garden design while making improvements to access, signage and literature. Accessibility improvements were key to the project seeing upgraded paths, clearer signage and a new sheltered workspace for all-weather activities as well as restored buildings and enhanced wildlife habitats.
It also saw the appointment of a Community and Engagement Officer who brought diverse communities to connect with the natural heritage of the garden and open the gardens more frequently for visitors to enjoy the beautiful space.
We’re proud to showcase and celebrate Thrive, Birmingham as a working garden and therapeutic space supporting people in the community who are living with a wide range of health needs.
Kyra Trewby, Community Engagement Officer Thrive, Birmingham
Our Community Engagement Officer Kyra Trewby says: “We look forward to welcoming everyone to this special place to enjoy the gardens, connect with nature and learn how we can support their health and wellbeing.”
The Birmingham gardens have a rich legacy as a tv broadcast location for Pebble Mill and Gardener’s World. In addition to our media fame, the gardens played a vital role in horticultural training, supporting programmes through the School of Horticulture in partnership with Pershore and Bournville Colleges.
Today, the gardens are used for Social and Therapeutic Horticulture (STH) programmes, where trained practitioners and dedicated volunteers work with client gardeners to support their health through gardening.
Our garden celebration is one of over 100 events taking place during Birmingham Heritage Week (12-21 September 2025) marking the city's rich history and culture. At the heart of the local community, this special and safe space is now accessible to even more people who are looking to benefit from time in nature. Visitors touring the gardens will see original features and new developments alongside learning about programmes and community events.
Simply turn up to join the celebrations on Friday 12 September from 1-4pm.
