Across Somerset there are an estimated 124,500 gardens, alongside countless allotments, courtyards and small green spaces. Collectively, these form one of the county’s most powerful – and often underestimated – nature networks. The Wilder Gardening Award celebrates spaces that go beyond decoration, becoming places where nature is welcomed, supported and allowed to recover. Anyone who cares for their garden and creates a wildlife haven can apply.

At Dryad Gin, the garden has always been viewed as a living system rather than a backdrop. It plays a vital role in supporting pollinators, birds and small mammals, while also offering a restorative space for people. This belief sits at the heart of the business, shaping everything from the botanicals used in the gin to the immersive experiences offered on site. The garden includes a Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Bug Hotel, hedgehog house, pond and a Night-Scented Moon Garden.

The award recognises a thoughtful, long-term approach to gardening that works with natural cycles, prioritises biodiversity and values the connection between people and the land. It also reflects Dryad Gin’s wider ethos as a small, place-based business rooted in Somerset, demonstrating how enterprises of any size can make a meaningful contribution to nature recovery.

Dryad Gin would like to thank Jon Guard for his support in helping to create and nurture this wildlife haven. A short film celebrating the garden, featuring music by Jon Guard – and a much-loved visiting otter – captures the spirit of the space and the life it supports.

This recognition reinforces Dryad Gin’s belief that businesses can thrive while putting wildlife first, and that even the smallest patches of land can play a powerful role in building a Wilder Somerset.

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As a Chamber, we are pleased to share this good news story and highlight how local businesses like Dryad Gin are helping to support nature recovery, wellbeing and a greener future for Somerset.