Star Garden Officially Opens in the Heart of Crieff
Star Garden
On Tuesday 12th August 2025, we welcomed over 70 guests to the official opening of the Star Garden – a new community green space at 47–49 East High Street, Crieff.
The garden was created by Creative Crieff, with the vision of transforming a once-unused site into a vibrant oasis for everyone to enjoy. Thanks to the expertise of Susan and Scott Thomson, and the generous support of Perth & Kinross Council and The Gannochy Trust, the Star Garden has blossomed into a welcoming, sensory-friendly space at the heart of our town.
The opening ceremony was led by local councillors Rhona Brock and Stewart Donaldson, alongside community representatives and local businesses. We were also delighted to welcome radio hosts Janice and Graham Russell, who shared the celebration live on air, and Sarah Auld, Community Food Growing Officer for Perth & Kinross, who hosted a growing stand.
A Community Celebration
Throughout the morning, families, businesses, and residents explored the garden, enjoyed refreshments and home baking, and took part in family-friendly activities including a drawing competition, fairy trail, and garden quiz. Children were encouraged to get hands-on with child-sized gardening tools, microscopes, and a toy box designed to inspire curiosity about nature.
The garden’s sensory planting – with a mix of colours, textures, and fragrances – was complemented by the striking Millefleur Project. Inspired by the Yarndale Wool Festival, this collaborative artwork featured hundreds of handmade flowers donated by people from Crieff, Comrie, Auchterarder, and even as far as Edinburgh and Devon. Each flower was hand sewn or glued into place, creating a bright and tactile feature for visitors to enjoy.
A Space for Everyone
Accessibility and inclusivity were at the heart of this project. A swooping pathway makes the garden fully accessible for wheelchair users and strollers, while picnic benches and seating provide spaces for visitors to relax. The Potting Shed, which will soon be fitted out, is set to become a welcoming community hub where locals and visitors can meet for a hot drink and a chat.
Looking Ahead
The opening event sparked excitement for the future of the Star Garden, with many guests already asking about volunteering opportunities and regular opening times. We see huge potential for collaborations with schools, youth groups, care homes, and community organisations, ensuring the garden grows into a shared space for learning, wellbeing, and connection.
Creative Crieff is incredibly grateful to all who supported the Star Garden, whether through funding, volunteering, or simply joining us to celebrate opening day. We look forward to welcoming you back soon as the garden continues to grow and thrive.
Many thanks to our wonderful Photographers Lynn MacGregor and Adam Millar for capturing the day!
