Wilderness to Wonderland: Volunteer as a Gardener

Wilderness to Wonderland is a volunteer-driven gardening project that revitalises overlooked public spaces across Margate and Westbrook, including places like the Westbrook beach gardens, promenade planters, Nayland Rock Shelter, and Margate Station Approach. The project began during lockdown and has blossomed into a thriving community effort supporting mental health, physical activity, and civic pride.

Volunteers meet regularly to weed, plant, water, and restore neglected areas, turning them into colourful, welcoming spaces enjoyed by thousands of residents and visitors every year. Their work has transformed dark or derelict places into safe, uplifting community gardens that spark conversations, connection, and joy.

Why Your Volunteering Matters

By volunteering even just an hour or two, you’ll be helping to:

• Restore nature-rich spaces across Margate and Westbrook, from coastal planters to community garden pockets.
• Improve wellbeing, both your own and that of the community many volunteers say the work boosts physical and mental health and gives them a sense of purpose and belonging.
• Create safer, more welcoming neighbourhoods local residents have reported feeling safer walking home thanks to the improved green spaces around Margate Station.
• Build community spirit, connecting with neighbours, families, schoolchildren, and visitors who stop to chat or admire the blooms.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or an absolute beginner, the group welcomes weeders, waterers, planters, planners anyone with a caring attitude and love for our local environment

By becoming a volunteer you’re not just stepping into nature; you’re stepping into a movement.

Date and Time: Usually twice a week

LOCATION:  West-Brook Beach Approach, Margate Station Approach or TS Elliot Shelters/Nayland Rock

MORE INFO : rorywaitt008@gmail.com or 07811 470700

Wilderness to Wonderland organiser Rory Waitt explained: “Visitors, residents, children and volunteers all share the joy and wonder of watching plants grow, making our streets safer and more beautiful.

“We recover neglected dirty dangerous wilderness and transform them in to community gardens. We are not all expert horticulturists and you are welcome to explore joining the fun.

“We are local residents who meet weekly to look after our environment and each other promoting inclusion, diversity, civic pride and wellbeing.”