The Girlguiding Journey
The story
This exciting garden is a living representation of the skill-building, personal growth and special connection to nature that young women experience as they progress through the Girlguiding family - the UK's largest youth organisation dedicated to girls.
Visitors are taken on an educational journey through the life of a Girl Guide. A bee-friendly wildflower meadow symbolises the Bee Rescuers badge earned by the youngest members, the Rainbows. From there, the path leads to a planting workstation where the Brownies work towards their Grow Your Own badge, followed by an advanced skills section dedicated to the more experienced Guides and Rangers. The journey culminates in a tranquil area nestled among birches, where Guides can play games and sing camp songs.
The strong connection to nature and conservation is evident in elements like bug houses and bee hotels, all created by Girlguiding members. The planting reflects the Norfolk countryside and incorporates native, drought-tolerant species. At the spiritual and physical heart of the garden is a curved, flowing seating area engraved with the Girlguiding Promise, serving as a gathering point for reflection and community. It embodies communal values for Girlguiding members across all age groups, representing their growth into resilient, compassionate and empowered young people.