Two of Ely’s biggest parks have, once again, been awarded Green Flag status. 

Ely Country Park and Jubilee Gardens, which are both owned by East Cambridgeshire District Council, have been recognised with the prestigious award.

The coveted Green Flag status is awarded to parks and green spaces which are free and open to everyone to enjoy, while meeting strict standards offering excellent visitor facilities.

This marks the 22nd year Jubilee Gardens has been awarded a Green Flag and the eleventh year for Ely Country Park.

Councillor Anna Bailey, Leader of East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “Jubilee Gardens and the Country Park in Ely are excellent examples of the many beautiful open spaces our district has to offer.

“For our gardens and parks to receive such recognition is a real credit to our parks and open spaces team and also the volunteers who dedicate their time for the benefit of our whole community, in particular the Friends of Jubilee Gardens.

“This is a coveted international award, granted to only 2,250 spaces throughout the UK, recognising excellence in management, cleanliness and environmental standards in parks and green spaces. I am very proud that our park and garden have received the award again.”

Simon Higginson, chair of the Friends of Jubilee Gardens, said: “Our aim is to attract wildlife and enhance biodiversity, maintaining the gardens as environmentally friendly as possible, as well as creating a beautiful space. To have the gardens recognised once again with the Green Flag status is something we feel very pleased about.

“I would particularly like to thank all of the volunteers and the district council’s parks and open spaces team with whom we work closely, for all their hard work and long hours in making it such a special place for so many people.”

Jubilee Gardens features open space for picnics and free play, as well as a toddler play area, water feature and bandstand, which hosts riverside concerts during the summer months. Biodiversity is encouraged with bug hotels, bird boxes and log piles located throughout the gardens.

A short walk away, the Country Park has a picnic area where you can enjoy the play equipment including zip wire, wooden boat and swings, or you can just sit on the benches and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The park also has two trails which will help you to discover some spectacular views and enjoy the wildlife, as well as two mazes to explore.

Both the park and garden feature on the Explore East Cambs website, as well as many other attractions in the district. Visit Explore East Cambs for more information.