Hever Castle’s Head Gardener Neil Miller has received a national award in recognition of his outstanding work over many years for the gardening charity Perennial.
Neil was presented with his accolade, a Silver Shovel Spotlight Award, during The Dig Deep for Perennial Fundraising Lunch, which took place in London on Friday 10 October.
Perennial, the UK’s only charity supporting people facing challenges in horticulture, staged the event as a mark of appreciation for the generosity of its supporters.
Neil’s association with the charity goes back more than two decades, in which time he has helped raise a substantial amount of money, with his endeavours including abseiling. He has volunteered his time, giving multiple talks, and has even featured in Perennial’s calendars.
He said: “It was both a surprise and an honour to receive a Silver Shovel Spotlight Award. Supporting Perennial has been a real joy, as well as great fun and sometimes even slightly scary. Abseiling down the UK’s tallest sculpture, the ArcelorMittal orbit at the Olympic Park, put me to the test, but the thought of helping fellow gardeners was a real buzz and got me through it!”
Neil added: “I can honestly say that I feel an integral part of the wonderful Perennial family, and I know that the support and advice the charity offers is a great help and comfort to many.”
Neil’s award was presented to him by Jamie Gault, Perennial’s Chief Executive, with the ceremony staged at The Cumberland, Marble Arch. Guest speakers included TV presenter Alan Titchmarsh and award-winning writer and broadcaster Matthew Biggs, well known as a panellist on Gardeners’ Question Time.
With more than 125 acres to tend at Hever, and with a team of ten gardeners to manage, Neil has a wide remit, which includes setting up new projects in the Castle’s gardens as well as maintaining established areas.
He has led his team to numerous gold medal wins at the South & South East in Bloom Awards, including yet another top prize in 2025, and has been personally awarded the prestigious South & South East in Bloom Horticulture Achievement Award and Outstanding Achievement Award.
The Silver Shovel Spotlight Awards recognises the charity’s dedicated supporters, who have not only raised vital funds but have also helped ensure Perennial’s message reaches those who need it most.
Jamie Gault said: “From bereavement and financial strain to health challenges and family pressures, our supporters’ generosity enables Perennial to be there when it matters most. Together, we can lift our community, reminding every horticulturist and their family that they are never alone.”
Book your visit to Hever Castle & Gardens.
Within the grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, there are two opportunities for you to stay the night with us.
Hever Castle has played host to many important events and celebrations for over 600 years. In 1903 when William Waldorf Astor set about restoring Hever Castle to its former glory, he added the Astor Wing, to accommodate his family and guests, before creating a lake and the spectacular Italian Garden to house his impressive collection of ancient Greek and Roman statuary.
There are multiple places to eat & drink across the Hever Castle Estate. Select between the Castle & Gardens and Golf Club below to discover more.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, Hever Castle Golf Club is a 27 hole Kent golf course that will encourage and inspire all golf enthusiasts.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, the Wellbeing Centre consists of five smart treatment rooms.
