Online Events Early Gardens is the first in our six series of talks on A History of Gardens. We’ll be looking at themes and styles from the ancient world through to the Elizabethan era. Completing all six series will provide a thorough grounding in garden history – or you can sign up for individual sessions that interest you. Tuesdays at 10am from 16 April.
People’s Parks will be presented by Paul Rabbitts, GT Trustee and author of the recent book of the same name. These six talks will explore the history and design of some of our outstanding public spaces, from the Royal Parks of London to the great designers of the Victorian era, to what makes them great parks – their parkitecture, the bandstands that proliferated – to remnants of once great estates. Wednesdays at 6pm from 17 April.
In-person Events 9 May – Car shares to Exbury. Our floriferous trip to Exbury is fast approaching and we would be delighted to have more attendees join us for what promises to be a fun and educational day. For those who are worried about the car journey we have arranged car shares from Central London so you can glide through the magic of the New Forest at a leisurely pace. Please email the Gardens Trust to book a place. Thomas Clarke the Exbury head gardener says this is an ‘exceptional’ year for the display of rhododendrons, camellias and magnolias. The colours are quite a sight to behold combined with a fascinating history of Exbury house and gardens. NOT TO BE MISSED!
4 July – We still have some places left for our special trip to Dorneywood in Bucks, the historic grace and favour residence of the Chancellor of the Exchequer. A full afternoon will include talks by experts on the history of the house and garden, followed by private tours of both, and then tea enjoyed in the garden. Now open to non-members of the GT. Booking closes 3 June.
10-12 September – This year’s study trip to Suffolk will be based in central Bury St. Edmunds, and accommodation has been reserved at the historic 4 * Angel Hotel. Over 2 ½ days gardens we will visit Somerleyton, the romantic garden at Kentwell Hall, Melbury Hall, the private garden of Lady Xa Tollemache at Helmingham Hall and Crowe Hall, a private garden that is not normally open to the public. The trip also includes a tea and talk in the cloisters of St Edmund’s Cathedral. We anticipate a high take-up for this study tour, and we will need to confirm numbers by the end of June, so please don’t delay in booking.
