Leisure attraction back on track after lean year

THE boss of Alnwick Garden has talked of an “incredible” spring and early summer for the visitor attraction after challenges last year which forced a small number of job losses.

- TOM KEIGHLEY Business writer [e-mail]

CEO Mark Brassell talked of a mixed picture for the Northumberland site across spring and summer 2024 as extreme weather impacted normally busy times, but with hopes that an “outstanding” Christmas season can be repeated this year.

And, as the garden enters is 25th year, a programme of celebratory events is on the horizon.

Speaking to The Journal following the publication of fresh accounts to the end of March 2025 for The Alnwick Garden Trust, Mr Brassell described highly encouraging numbers despite the twin shocks of unstable weather and national insurance contributions rises. Following the Chancellor's Autumn Budget in 2024 the charity was forced to become “more lean, mean and efficient” as it sought to shield visitors from any price rises.

The trust’s accounts show a modest reduction in visitor services and retail staff over the year, but an overall rise in headcount from 202 to 216.