Drakkar’s Drift was formally opened by the Council’s Culture and Communities Convener on Sunday (21 June) following a successful community campaign to bring the garden home to Victoria Park.
Designed by Leith resident Luke Coleman, the garden achieved remarkable success at the RHS Flower Show, winning a Gold Medal, RHS Young Designer of the Year, the People’s Choice Award and Best Construction. Inspired by Scotland’s historic links with Scandinavia, the restorative benefits of nature and sustainable design principles, the garden impressed both visitors and judges.
Following the show, an ambitious community fundraising campaign was launched to secure the garden’s future in Edinburgh. The original design has since been adapted and expanded to transform a former bowling green in Victoria Park into a vibrant, accessible community space.
The garden was shaped by feedback from residents, who expressed a desire for more sensory planting in the park. Particular attention has been given to texture, movement, colour, scent, and sound, creating an engaging and inclusive experience for all visitors.
Features include accessible pathways, seating areas, sensory planting, mature trees, wildlife habitats and striking sculptural elements that support biodiversity and encourage people to connect with nature.
Alongside a neighbouring bowling green that is being transformed into a community croft by Earth in Common, Drakkar’s Drift forms part of the Council’s wider programme to transform disused bowling greens into welcoming, accessible spaces that benefit local communities and enhance urban biodiversity.
Councillor Margaret Graham, Convener of the Culture and Communities Committee, said:
I'm delighted that Drakkar’s Drift has found its permanent home here in Edinburgh alongside the fantastic work being undertaken by Earth in Common.
This project perfectly demonstrates how underused spaces can be transformed into something truly special for local communities. What began as an award-winning show garden has evolved into a beautiful and accessible community asset that will be enjoyed for many years to come.
My thanks go to Luke and the volunteers who gave their time and creativity to bring it to life.
Luke Coleman said:
Winning at the RHS was a dream come true, but seeing Drakkars Drift find a permanent home in Victoria Park is even more rewarding.The garden was always intended to connect people with nature, and it’s been incredible to see volunteers, schools and the local community come together to help bring that vision to life.
Additional fundraising is ongoing, with further improvements planned for later this year. These include a braille map and other accessibility features to ensure the garden can be enjoyed by as many visitors as possible.