Sunken garden restored by army of volunteers

The Sunken Garden in Westbrook dates from 1932

A 100-year-old garden on the Kent coastline which fell derelict is now thriving thanks to an army of volunteers.

The Sunken Garden on the seafront in Westbrook, near Margate, was laid out in 1932 in a Baroque style.

The garden, which is managed by Thanet District Council, fell into disrepair in the 1990s but is now flourishing thanks to the local community.

Peter Hasted, founder of the Sunken Garden Society, said the site was "quite magical" and volunteers "take so much pride" in maintaining it.

Mr Hasted, who used to be a coastal warden for the area, saw the garden as a "prime opportunity for restoration".

He said: "It is a historic pleasure garden which was really overgrown.

"My daughter used to call it the secret garden."

The Sunken Garden Society encourages wildlife planting to attract more bumble bees.

Volunteers began the restoration project in 2018

Mr Hasted said: "Plants here in the garden have been selected to thrive in this unique coastal region.

"They must withstand regular north-easterly, salt-laden winds and the maritime microclimate."

The Sunken Garden Society has raised thousands of pounds since it was set up in 2018.

"We ask for plant donations and people's time to upkeep the garden," Mr Hasted said.

A giant bumble bee sculpture made out of willow weave was installed

An eco fair in October attracted 2,000 people.

Mr Hasted said: "It was brilliant to see the garden being put to such good use.

"It was a bit overwhelming."

A giant bumble bee sculpture by a local artist was installed, made out of willow weave.

In 2025 the garden's organisers are hoping for another eco fair and to take part in the RSPB's bird count at the end of January.

Mr Hasted said: "We are always on the lookout for fresh volunteers.

"It's an amazing place with new skills to learn and good social benefits."