Haigh estate has seen a surge in visitor numbers during the summer of 2026, with the site welcoming more than 275,000 visitors between April and July.
The restored Plantation Gates and Lodges proved particularly popular, attracting more than 1,900 people during July and August. One visitor wrote in the feedback book: "I am blown away by what has been achieved at the Plantation Gates. It is incredible and I want to thank everyone involved in the amazing restoration."
Recent improvements and attractions
Councillor Chris Ready, cabinet portfolio holder for communities, highlighted the improvements made to the estate. "The progress we've seen across the estate over the last year has been remarkable. More and more people are discovering and exploring this jewel in the crown of our borough and the businesses here on site are benefitting too," he said.
The estate's attractions this year have included a Food Festival weekend, the opening of Plantation Gates and the Lodges, and the return of the land train.