Seeds of Change WINNER 2026
Pontefract Castle
From Grounds to Goods will create a distinctive income stream by transforming used coffee grounds from the Castle Café into a range of sustainable retail products co-created by staff, volunteers and a local artist.
Initial experiments have produced two small batches of Pontefract Castle ‘seed cannonballs’ using coffee grounds and wildflower seeds. This project will develop that idea into a viable retail product through improved design, packaging and scaled production, alongside new items including coffee-dyed textiles and deodorising products. Once the process is refined, artist-led workshops will also be offered where participants can make their own coffee-ground products.
About Pontefract Castle
One of Yorkshire’s most important historic landmarks, Pontefract Castle is a dramatic medieval fortress that played a significant role in English history for over 500 years. Today, it boasts wide open spaces with wonderful views of the surrounding Yorkshire countryside, and fascinating ruins to explore – including the notorious cellars and dungeons, featuring writing and names scratched onto the walls by the unfortunate prisoners.
The idea behind this project began with a simple experiment from a member of our front of house team. To see that idea grow from a small conversation into a national award is a powerful reminder that innovation can come from anywhere in an organisation when people are encouraged to share their ideas.
Vicky Shearman, Museums & Castles Development Manager, Wakefield Council