We are proud to announce that we have completed the Blooming Marvellous Pollinator Patch challenge, an inspiring initiative designed to help bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects survive and thrive.
Pollinators are vital to the health of our countryside, but they face growing challenges due to habitat loss and climate change. The challenge, launched by the David Bellamy Blooming Marvellous Pledge for Nature 2025, in association with the British Holiday & Home Parks Association (BH&HPA), encourages parks to create vibrant, nectar-rich areas that provide food across the seasons and support the life cycles of these essential insects.
A Thoughtful Transformation of Space
At the beginning of 2025, while the park was closed for the season, we took the opportunity to improve our landscape with both lodge owners and nature in mind. We created some new parking spaces within our paddock area, and rather than simply using up green space, we decided to give back to wildlife by creating a brand new pollinator patch alongside it.
This newly planted border measures approximately 35 ft by 4 ft and has been designed to support pollinators throughout the year. Using resources like the RHS Plants for Pollinators guide, we carefully selected species that would bloom across all seasons, ensuring a steady source of nectar and pollen from spring through to winter.
What’s in Our Pollinator Patch?
Bordering an existing hedge, our patch features a diverse mix of pollinator-friendly plants. We’ve planted a range of clematis, including Clematis Montana Grandiflora, Clematis Montana Rubens and the UK native Clematis Vitalba (also known as ‘Traveller’s Joy’ or ‘Old Man’s Beard’). These flowering climbers provide essential nectar for insects while enhancing the park’s natural beauty across the seasons.
We’ve also introduced a selection of Spiraea species; Spiraea Snowmound, Spiraea Goldflame, Spiraea Golden Princess, Spiraea Gold Mound, and the UK native Spiraea Alba White Meadowsweet. These shrubs are particularly attractive to bees, butterflies, and even hummingbird moths, while being low-maintenance and great for year round structure.
To complement the planting and add seasonal variety, we’ve included ornamental alliums. With their striking globe-shaped flowers, alliums are as appealing to people as they are to bees, offering early-season nectar and bold visual appeal.
Welcoming Wildlife with Bug Hotels
To further support the pollinator patch and provide shelter for beneficial insects, we also took the opportunity to refurbish our existing bug hotel. In addition, we’ve installed two brand new bug hotels nearby, offering safe nesting and overwintering spaces for solitary bees, ladybirds, lacewings, and other helpful garden insects.
These small habitats play a big role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem, encouraging biodiversity and creating an inviting environment for nature to thrive.
A Small Patch with a Big Purpose
Our new pollinator patch, and its neighbouring bug hotels, represent our commitment to nature, sustainability, and the wellbeing of our local wildlife. By creating a rich and varied habitat, we’re helping to secure a future for pollinating insects while offering guests a closer connection to the natural world.
Next time you visit Tremfan Lodge Park, be sure to stop by our blooming marvellous pollinator patch, watch the bees buzz, the butterflies flutter, and maybe even spot a few residents of our new bug hotels.
Together, we’re making space for nature, one patch at a time.
