Moccas Park, Herefordshire

Matthew Wigan Associates won first place in the Capability Brown Festival Design Ideas Competition, hosted by Natural England and The Landscape Institute.

The design was based on an in depth analysis of the cultural, ecological and historical context of the site at Moccas Hill Wood, part of a Grade II* registered park and garden near Hereford, a Brown-influenced historic designed landscape, that also incorporates Moccas National Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest. 

Our entry was described by the judges as:  ‘A very detailed analysis of the historic influences connecting with the concepts of the Beautiful and Picturesque, with practical scope for sensitive wood pasture and habitat creation.’

Natural England senior heritage estates advisor Leslie Pearman said: "The winning design ideas give Natural England a clear picture of how to extend the ancient tree habitat of the medieval deer park, making the best of the fabulous views and historic and archaeological features in a way that will inspire people to enjoy the site for a further 300 years."