The results were announced on Thursday, 30 October 2026, at the Toughsheet Community Stadium in Bolton, following judging by Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) experts during the summer. These accolades recognise the borough's achievements in horticulture, environmental responsibility, recycling, biodiversity, cleanliness, and community engagement.
Building on previous successes, Rochdale town centre's horticulturists continued their winning streak, securing gold and best in category for both their Small City and Town Centre entries in the local awards. This follows their overall Town Centres and City Centres title at the recent Royal Horticultural Society Britain in Bloom awards.
Phil Massey, Rochdale in Bloom treasurer, was honoured with an outstanding contribution award for his significant work supporting the borough's horticultural efforts. Additionally, Baillie Street Quarter won the new Best Art in the Community award for its outstanding artwork from the Common Walls International Mural Festival, organised by local artist Hayley Garner (Ayo). Rochdale BID also achieved gold and won the Best Business Improvement District (BID) category, adding to the town's recognition as Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture for 2025/26.
In the accommodation sector, Hampton by Hilton hotel received gold and won its category in its first year of entry, while the nearby Norton Grange hotel also secured gold in the Large Accommodation category.
In Heywood, the town centre earned gold, a success attributed to council teams and dedicated Heywood in Bloom volunteers. Heywood Distribution Park once again took gold and the overall category winner in the commercial category, with Stakehill BID in Middleton achieving a silver gilt. Norden in Bloom also maintained its gold status.
Highlights in the Pennines area included Hollingworth Lake Country Park retaining gold and winning the Large Tourist Attraction category. Littleborough improved to gold in the Large Town category, as did Wardle Village. Pennines in Bloom also retained gold, and Healey Dell tea rooms received gold, being named Small Tourist Attraction overall winner.
Several parks also received recognition: Queen’s Park, Hare Hill Park, Milnrow Park, Stanney Brook Park, and Jubilee Park in Norden all won gold in their respective categories, underscoring the value of accessible green spaces for residents.
Councillor Tricia Ayrton, deputy leader and cabinet member for climate change and environment at Rochdale Borough Council, commented: “Another outstanding achievement for our borough. Building on Rochdale’s Britain in Bloom success, the council’s environmental management teams, volunteers, businesses and schools have excelled again at the North West awards. The judges’ praise reminds us how much we have to be proud of.”
She added: “These awards celebrate our shared achievements. Beyond beautiful flower displays and clean town centres, they recognise our town pride and strong partnerships, giving us all reason to be proud of where we live. Well done and heartfelt thanks to everyone involved.”
