20th July 2026
A highlight of the Land Trust calendar, the Managing Partners Awards celebrate the sites, projects, volunteers, rangers and community groups who are delivering exceptional outcomes across the Land Trust estate. Working alongside managing partners throughout the country, these award-winning sites demonstrate how collaboration can create thriving places for people, nature and communities.
Community Space of the Year
Winner – Countess of Chester Country Park
Managed in partnership with The Conservation Volunteers (TCV)
Countess of Chester Country Park was recognised for its outstanding community impact, providing a welcoming environment and a diverse programme of activities including Forest School sessions, volunteering, wellbeing initiatives and NHS partnerships. The site brings people together while supporting physical health, mental wellbeing and stronger community connections.
Nature Site of the Year
Winner – Hassall Green Nature Reserve
Managed in partnership with Groundwork
Hassall Green achieved Local Wildlife Site designation in 2026 following seven years of dedicated conservation and habitat improvement work. The award celebrates the commitment of Groundwork, Green Angels volunteers and local communities in enhancing biodiversity and protecting valuable habitats.
Health Site of the Year
Winner – Wellesley Woodlands
Managed in partnership with Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership
Wellesley Woodlands continues to champion health and wellbeing through a broad range of activities, including health walks, Tai Chi, running events and the innovative ScanFit Trail. Accessible routes and sensory experiences ensure the benefits of nature are available to a wide and diverse audience.
Education Site of the Year
Winner – Fryston Country Trails
Managed in partnership with Groundwork
Fryston Country Trails significantly expanded its education offer during the year, introducing new school resources, home education sessions and seasonal activities. With participant numbers quadrupling and demand continuing to grow, the site has established itself as a leading destination for outdoor learning.
Education Site of the Year
Highly Commended – Braeburn
Managed in partnership with London Wildlife Trust
Braeburn’s Forest School programme continues to go from strength to strength under the leadership of dedicated volunteer Sara Jones. The initiative successfully combines outdoor education with conservation activities, creating valuable learning opportunities while strengthening community involvement.
Most Inclusive Site of the Year
Winner – Hogmoor Inclosure & Prince Philip Park
Managed in partnership with Deadwater Valley Trust
The site was recognised for its commitment to accessibility and inclusion, providing SEN work placements, accessible mobility equipment and sensory experiences developed in partnership with healthcare and disability organisations. These initiatives ensure more people can enjoy and benefit from nature.
Site Delivering Best Economic Activity
Winner – Fort Burgoyne
Managed in partnership with White Cliffs Countryside Partnership
Fort Burgoyne continues to generate economic value through local employment, support for regional suppliers, Green Angels training and a varied programme of events and commercial activity. The site demonstrates how heritage and green spaces can contribute positively to local economies.
Site Delivering Best Economic Activity
Highly Commended – Rabbit Ings Country Park
Managed in partnership with Groundwork
Rabbit Ings Country Park combines community benefit with economic contribution, supporting local employment, volunteers, sports clubs and small businesses. Ongoing investment and community involvement continue to strengthen its impact across the surrounding area.
Most Improved Site of the Year
Winner – Pleasley
Managed in partnership with Pleasley Pit Trust
Pleasley Pit has seen significant growth in visitor engagement, volunteering and community participation through an expanded programme of events and learning opportunities. Improved partnerships and visitor experiences have helped transform the site into a thriving hub for heritage, nature and wellbeing.
Best Friends Of/Community Group
Winner – Friends of Knowle Haven
Celebrating its tenth anniversary, Friends of Knowle Haven has transformed a once-neglected site into a thriving wildlife and community destination. Through years of dedication and daily stewardship, the group has created and maintained a valued space for local residents and wildlife alike.
Volunteer of the Year
Winner – Nigel Green (Northumberlandia)
Nigel Green was recognised for his exceptional commitment, determination and positivity as a volunteer. His ongoing dedication to conservation work, even while facing significant personal health challenges, exemplifies the spirit and value of volunteering.
Volunteer of the Year
Highly Commended – Dave Lackie
A volunteer for more than a decade, Dave Lackie has consistently shared his expertise, leadership and enthusiasm across conservation projects and community events. His skills, reliability and willingness to support others have made a lasting impact on both colleagues and local communities.
Ranger of the Year
Winner – Julie Reid
Deadwater Valley Trust
Julie Reid was recognised for her outstanding contribution to community engagement, environmental education and volunteering over the past seven years. Her Memorial Walk project, created through extensive personal research, provided a moving and meaningful way for local residents to connect with their shared history.
Managing Partners’ Choice Award – Project of the Year
Winner – Fort Boo-Goyne, Fort Burgoyne
The Fort Boo-Goyne Halloween event expanded successfully in 2025, welcoming more visitors while maintaining its high-quality visitor experience. Supported by volunteers, the event combined education, creativity and entertainment to create a memorable community celebration.
Project on a Poster
Winner – Bringing the Ancient Forest Back to Phoenix Park
As part of our new Project on a Poster initiative, Managing Partners were invited to pitch a project they were passionate about delivering on site. The winning proposal, voted for by fellow guests, was “Bringing the Ancient Forest Back to Phoenix Park.” The project will create a Bluebell and Wild Garlic Woodland, boosting biodiversity and providing a beautiful space for the local community to enjoy. The Phoenix Park team has been awarded £1,000 to bring their idea to life.
Site of the Year
Winner – Buckler’s Forest
Managed in partnership with Bracknell Forest Council
Buckler’s Forest was named Site of the Year in recognition of its continued success in wildlife conservation, education, health and wellbeing, and community growing. With new learning opportunities, community gardens and wellbeing programmes, the site continues to deliver benefits for people and nature.
Site of the Year
Highly Commended – Fort Burgoyne
Managed in partnership with White Cliffs Countryside Partnership
Fort Burgoyne welcomed more than 1,000 visitors to events during the year while expanding educational engagement, commercial activity and biodiversity improvements. Supported by an exceptional volunteer team, the site continues to demonstrate the impact that a small but dedicated team can achieve.
Congratulations to all winners, highly commended nominees, managing partners, volunteers, rangers and community groups whose dedication continues to make Land Trust sites extraordinary places for people and nature.