RHS Garden Bridgewater is set to unveil a major new landmark at the centre of its Chinese Garden, the largest in the UK.
Opening Sat 26 Sep, the Yangzhou Scholars’ Garden has been more than eight years in the making. The garden is the result of an ambitious programme of fundraising, design and craftsmanship, creating a striking new attraction within RHS Bridgewater’s seven-acre Chinese Streamside Garden.
Developed in partnership with Yangzhou City, the China Flower Association, Greater Manchester’s Chinese community and the RHS, it combines authentic Chinese architecture, horticulture and cultural traditions in a landscape inspired by the historic scholars’ gardens of Yangzhou.
The Yangzhou Scholars’ Garden has been meticulously crafted by skilled Chinese artisans and centres around four interconnected pavilions celebrating the scholarly arts of chess, music, calligraphy and painting. Every pathway, bridge and view has been designed to reveal beauty and meaning one step at a time.
Marcus Chilton-Jones, Head of RHS Bridgewater, said: “The opening of the Yangzhou Scholars’ Garden is a landmark moment for RHS Garden Bridgewater and for Greater Manchester.
“This remarkable international collaboration has created not only a beautiful garden, but a lasting symbol of friendship, cultural exchange and shared learning. We are delighted to welcome visitors into this extraordinary new space.
“From September, people will be able to experience a unique corner of Chinese horticulture and culture right here in Salford.”
Tracy Snell, Curator at RHS Bridgewater, added: “Watching this garden take shape has been a privilege.
“Chinese scholars’ gardens were created as places to slow down, reflect and reconnect with nature. Visitors will discover something new around every corner, and I can’t wait for people to experience the sense of calm and wonder the garden creates.”
To mark the public opening, RHS Garden Bridgewater will host a programme of family-friendly activities across Sat 26 and Sun 27 Sep. Highlights of the opening weekend include:
- Traditional Chinese Lion Dance performances
- A family Lion Dance workshop
- Storytelling inspired by the legend of Chang’e, the Moon Goddess
- Traditional Chinese calligraphy demonstrations
- A special Chinese Chess competition
- Guided tours of the Chinese Streamside Garden in English, Mandarin and Cantonese
- Live music performances, including traditional Guzheng music
- Choir performances throughout the weekend
- Lantern-making activities for families
All opening weekend activities are included with normal garden admission, which is free for RHS Members.
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- Words:
- Bradley Lengden
- Published on:
- Wed 23 Sep 2026
