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Events

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Date	County	Event
until 30 August 2010	Rutland	Art de Jardin - 2010 Summer Exhibition of Garden Sculpture
	Wingwell, 5 Top Street, Wing, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8SE.	Visit ARTDEJARDIN in the small but beautiful county of Rutland. Wander in the sunshine through the gardens, woodland and meadow of Wingwell and be captivated by the magical sculptures of the 18 outstanding artists taking part in this year's exhibition. 10am-5pm, Wednesday-Sunday, 30 May-30 August 2010. Visit Artdejardin.co.uk or call 01572 737 727 for further information.
Jun - Aug 2010	N/A	Chapterhouse Theatre Company - Open Air Theatre
	Nationwide	This year Chapterhouse Theatre Company is performing in over one hundred of Britain’s most beautiful and idyllic garden settings, such as Woburn Abbey, Savill Gardens and Fountains Abbey. They are touring five new productions from June to late August 2010. For more information visit: www.chapterhouse.org
Jun - Oct 2010	Dorset	Knoll Gardens - New Gardening Masterclasses
	Nr.Wimborne	For the first time, Knoll’s owner, Neil Lucas, the UK’s leading ornamental grass specialist, will be offering Masterclasses in Naturalistic Gardening in addition to the gardens’ well-established programme of Ornamental Grass Masterclasses. All Masterclasses are personally led by Neil and centred on a tour of the garden. The cost for each class is just £30 which includes a Dorset cream tea. For more information call: 01202 873 931 or visit: www.knollgardens.co.uk
June - September	Derbyshire	Hopton Hall - Summer Gardens Opening
	Hopton Hall, Hopton, Derbyshire, DE4 4DF.	The Summer Gardens at Hopton Hall will be open again in 2010 every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout June, July, August and September. £4 per adult, children up to 16 and parking free. For more information visit: hoptonhall.co.uk or call 01629 540 923.
30 Jun - 25 Aug 2010	City of London	Chelsea Physic Garden - Summer Lectures
	Chelsea Physic Garden, 66 Royal Hospital Road, London.	To celebrate the 350th anniversary of Sir Hans Sloane Chelsea Physic Garden are holding a series of evening lectures on their Late Opening Wednesdays from 30 June – 25 August, 6.45pm until 8pm, £15 (Garden admission included) / £10 Friends. For more information visit: www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk/events/Lectures.htm or call 020 7352 5646 ext 228.
July - September 2010	Gloucestershire	Barnsley House
		Barnsley House (near Cirencester, Gloucestershire) are running a calendar of garden-related events across the summer and into early autumn. This series of specially-themed, one-off events - exploring the beauty of its gardens from various standpoints - will include appearances by featured guest experts in addition to fixtures steered by Head Gardener, Richard Gatenby. Once the home of Rosemary Verey and now a chic 18 bedroom hotel, Barnsley House continues to honour the legacy of the internationally-acclaimed garden designer. Richard Gatenby - who has worked here since Mrs. Verey’s day - explains, “The gardens are very much at the heart and soul of what Barnsley House is all about.” In addition to the event dates the gardens at Barnsley House are open to the public from 10.30am to 4.30pm daily. For more details, visit www.barnsleyhouse.com/gardens.
26 Jul-27 Aug 2010	West Sussex	Borde Hill - Kid's Summer Fun
	Borde Hill Garden, Balcombe Road Haywards Heath, RH16 1XP	Borde Hill Garden has a programme of activities for children during the summer including a tree trail, maze and new adventure playground, plus vast areas of parkland and lakes with wildlife ponds to explore. Kids’ Summer Fun extends from 26th July to 27th August and includes activities such as Robbie the Magician, Go Kart Party and Splodge Arts and Crafts (making butterflies, insects and fish). Prices: Adults £7.50, £6.50 for concessions, and £4.50 for children. Family Day ticket available. Tel: 01444 450326 or visit: www.bordehill.co.uk.
06 - 07 August 2010	Somerset	Taunton Flower Show
	Vivary Park, Taunton, TA1 3QG.	Taunton Flower Show is a traditional British flower show held in the centre of Somerset's county town in the historic Vivary Park. The show opens at 10am for members and 11am for the general public. Everyone is admitted at 10am on Saturday. Tickets are available at the gate or can be bought in advance at a 10% discount. Visit: tauntonflowershow.co.uk for info and tickets.
6 - 8 August 2010	West Sussex	West Dean Gardens - Chilli Fiesta
	West Dean, Nr Chichester, West Sussex.	West Dean's Chilli Fiesta has been running since 1995 and brings devoted chilli fanatics from all over the world. The 300 chillies and sweet peppers on display in the glasshouses come in all shapes, sizes and colours, including the hottest chilli in the world: Naga Jolokia, also known as Bhut Jolokia, Ghost Chilli or California Death Pepper. There are chilli growing and cooking demonstrations and tastings ranging from the mild to the very hot. In addition to event entry, show visitors can make full use of the Parkland walk in and around the St Roche’s arboretum. Opening times: 10.30am - 5pm. Tickets: £9.00 (adults) £8.50 (over 60s) £4.25 (children 5 - 15) £22.00 Family Ticket (2 adults, 2 children) Children under 5 Free. Discounts for advanced on-line booking. Visit: westdean.org.uk for more info.
6 – 8 August 2010	South Ayrshire	Ayr Flower Show
	Rozelle Estate, Ayr, Scotland.	Ayr Flower Show is held in the beautiful setting of the Rozelle Estate with its feature trees, ponds, woodland walks and the Rozelle Mansion House and Galleries. See the cream of British horticulture, marvel at stunning show gardens, sample speciality food and drinks and enjoy a range of family entertainment. There are hundreds of competitions for amateurs in everything from vegetable growing and flower arranging to crafts, photography and home baking. There's a children's flower show for younger members of the family too. Fri & Sat 10am-6pm; Sun 10am-5pm. Tickets: £13 per day; seniors & unaccompanied schoolchildren £11; 5-16 yrs £4; under 5s free. Family tickets: £28 per day. Visit www.ayrflowershow.org or call 01292 618395 for more information.
10 August 2010	Cambridgeshire	Cambridge Botanic Garden - Trees for small gardens
	Cambridge Botanic Garden	Join this evening course with Mark Crouch who will suggest a range of trees suitable for small spaces and give advice on how to care for them. To book call: 01223 331 875.
13 - 14 August 2010	Shropshire	Shrewsbury Flower Show
	Shrewsbury	Shrewsbury Flower Show combines floral displays with an action packed itinerary of family fun, all located in the heart of Shrewsbury. Shrewsbury's Quarry Park is the backdrop for the two day summer show that boasts floral marquees, local produce, crafts, show jumping and more. Special guest appearances from the Hairy Bikers and Chris Beardshaw. Visit: shrewsburyflowershow.org.uk.
15 August 2010	Greater Manchester	Heaton Park - Flower Power Plant Fair
	HEATON PARK Prestwich Gtr Manchester M25 2SW	This ancient park, house and farm are now owned and maintained by Manchester City Council. The plant fair takes place near to the Horticultural Centre and will be bringing another fantastic collection of plant specialists to tempt you. Admission £2.00. There is a small parking charge at weekends.Visit www.flowerpowerfairs.co.uk or www.heatonpark.org.uk for further information.
19 – 22 August 2010	Merseyside	Southport Flower Show
	Southport, Merseyside.	The Southport Flower Show runs for four days in Victoria Park. Enjoy live music throughout the day, craft and trade stands, arena events, family entertainment and garden competitions. In the Grand Floral Marquee experts and professional growers from all over the country compete and create award winning displays of flowers, plants and vegetables. Advance day tickets: £16. On-the-gate day ticket: £21; concession: £18. Late entry (after 3.30pm): £8. No late entry ticket available on Thursday 19th August. Visit southportflowershow.co.uk or call 0844 847 1555 for tickets and information.
20 - 22 August	Hertfordshire	Hatfield House Country Show
		Highlights of the show include the traditional breed shows and the children's farm, the dancing sheep show and the milking demonstration. There will be a tempting selection of foods and drinks to try in the Fine Food marquee. See country craftsmen at work and try some country pursuits such as longbow archery. In the arenas, there will be falconry, sheep dogs, tug of war and the British Heavy Horse Driving team in action. Book in advance and save 20%. Visit hatfield-house.co.uk for further info or call 01707 287010.
21 August 2010	Derbyshire	Ashbourne Show
	Ashbourne, Derbyshire.	The Ashbourne Shire Horse Society will be holding the 119th Ashbourne Show. Held each year in the beautiful estate village of Osmaston, situated two miles from Ashbourne on the southern edge of the Peak District National Park, the Ashbourne Show provides a wonderful day out with entertainment and competitions for people of all ages and every background. The showground is the former polo field that was part of the parkland grounds of the old Osmaston Manor and the gates open to the public at 9.00am. Gate price: £8; concessions £6; children £4. Visit http://www.ashbourneshow.co.uk or call 01889 507497 for further information.
22 August 2010	West Yorkshire	Mirfield Agricultural Show
	Mirfield Show Ground, West Yorkshire.	Family fun day. Show includes Dahlias, Gladiolus, Roses, veg and more. Novice & childrens flower & veg section. Domestic and childrens section. Climbing wall, tug o war, childrens races, horse show and many more attractions. Visit mirfieldshow.com for more information.
23 - 30 August 2010	Gloucestershire	Westonbirt Arboretum - Festival of the Tree
	Westonbirt Arboretum, nr. Tetbury.	Westonbirt will welcome 12 talented sculptors, host over 130 craftspeople and offer tree-discovering family activities as part of its signature summer event, the Festival of the Tree. The sculptors will take up their chainsaws and chisels for 'Sculptree' element of the festival, which sees around 24 tonnes of sustainably felled wood recycled from the Westonbirt estate transformed into elegant works of art. The finished pieces will be auctioned on bank holiday Monday in support of Tree Aid. The Festival of the Tree is open from 9am-5pm. Visit Forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt for more information.
25 Aug	Cambridgeshire	Cambridge Botanic Garden - Looking after lawns
	Cambridge Botanic Garden	Discover the secrets of perfect lawns on this short course. Learn how to keep your grass in top condition with guidance on cutting, edging, feeding and treating. Find out how to create a new lawn and how to select and maintain your equipment. To book call: 01223 331 875.
26 August	Hertfordshire	Chris Beardshaw talk “Growing for Success”
		Join TV gardener and presenter Chris Beardshaw for a gardening talk in the Riding School at Hatfield House. Chris will be talking about 'Growing for Success' Thursday, 26th August 2010. 7.30pm - 9.30pm. To book contact the RHS on 0845 6121253 Ref 6770 (weekdays 9-5pm). Early booking advised. He will be signing his books and chatting to visitors before the presentation starts.
26 August 2010	Buckinghamshire	Bucks County Show
	Weedon Park, Nr Aylesbury.	The Bucks County Show is a one-day agricultural show. Attractions for this year include: Joseph’s Amazing Camels, RAF Halton Pipes & Drums, The Sheep Show, vintage tractors, Home & Garden marquee, shopping marquee, rural crafts, countryside area, over 200 trade stands, rural demonstrations, horse & livestock showing classes and show jumping. Along with much more for all the family and all ages and interests. Tickets: £9; seniors £8; children £5; family ticket £23. 8am – 6pm. Visit http://www.buckscountyshow.co.uk or call 01296 680 400 for more information.
30 August 2010	North Yorkshire	Newburgh Priory Summer Plant Fair
	NEWBURGH PRIORY Coxwold Nr Thirsk YO61 4AS North Yorkshire	The Newburgh Priory Summer Plant Fair returns with acres of wonderful gardens, grounds and of course the Priory ruins to explore, as well as buying some of the best plants in Yorkshire. Home made refreshments in the cafe, free parking and the House is open (admission extra). Admission £3.00 (includes free entry to the gardens and grounds). Visit flowerpowerfairs.co.uk or newburghpriory.co.uk for further information.
2 September 2010	West Sussex	Andy Sturgeon Talk – “Chelsea and beyond...”
	Walled Garden at Cowdray, Midhurst, West Sussex.	Following his outstanding success in winning Best in Show at Chelsea Flower Show this year, Andy Sturgeon will talk on “Chelsea and beyond....” as part of Alitex's popular lecture series. The talk is on 2 September at 8pm at the historic Walled Garden at Cowdray, Midhurst, West Sussex. The Walled Garden at Cowdray will open at 7.30 for viewing before the talk. Tickets are £10, contact Alitex at enquiries@alitex.co.uk or telephone 01730 826 900 to reserve your place.
3 - 5 September 2010	City of Dundee	Dundee Flower & Food Festival
	Camperdown Country Park, Coupar Angus Road, Dundee, DD2 4TF.	Lifestyle event taking place over 3 days, offering the best in food, horticulture and live entertainment. The packed weekend programme includes free cookery and gardening demonstrations, children’s activities, a craft fair, the chance to buy an amazing range of plants and quality food products and much more. The 2010 Festival plays host to the National Vegetable Society’s Championships and helps the Society celebrate its 50th anniversary. TV celebrity duo, The Hairy Bikers, will also be dropping in to spend two days cooking and mingling with the visitors to the Festival. Save £2 on each day ticket price if you buy before 1 September, and save £4 on a 3-day ticket. Visit dundeeflowerandfoodfestival.com or call 01382 433 815 for more information.
3 - 5 September 2010	Somerset	The National Gardening Show
	The Royal Bath & West of England Society, The Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 6QN.	Featuring floral halls, national dahlia show, giant veg and lots more. The Bath & West Showground has played host to gardening shows for fourteen years. This year they are presenting the National Gardening Show - the Finest in Autumn Gardening. The popular Scarecrow Competition will be down in the woodland area alongside other attractions ranging from advice on allotments to running a smallholding with animals and poultry on show. For shopping, gardeners will find everything they need from plants to pergolas whilst the demonstrations and competitions will appeal to all our visitors. There is the National Dahlia Show filling the Showering Pavilion with breathtaking blooms, the National Giant Vegetable Competition with unbelievable shapes and sizes and NAFAS with their beautiful and creative interpretations of flowers, celebrating their 30th Anniversary. There are also the popular feature gardens to admire and inspire. 9am – 4pm. Visit bathandwest.com/gardening-2010/95/ or call 01749 822 200 for more information.
3 - 5 September 2010	Derbyshire	Chatsworth Country Fair
	Chatsworth, Derbyshire.	The Red Arrows are to open Chatsworth Country Fair in a blaze of red. Over 70,000 visitors are expected to flock to Chatsworth as aerobatic pilots, daredevil motorbike riders, vintage cars, hot air balloons, knights, horses, hounds, birds of prey and piped bands come together to create a packed family programme spread over three days. Held in the 1000 acre park on the banks of the river Derwent, the three day event in September is packed full of things to watch, do and try, and gives visitors a real flavour of life in the countryside. Country Fair president Alan Titchmarsh will lead the opening ceremony on Friday 3 September at 12pm and will be out and about greeting the crowds at the fair throughout the day. Discounted advance tickets can be bought online at chatsworthcountryfair.co.uk.
03 - 05 September 2010	Suffolk	Suffolk Autumn Garden Show
	Trinity Park (Suffolk Showground), Ipswich, Suffolk, IP3 8UH	Visit Aztecevents.co.uk for further information
3 - 5 September 2010	Bristol	Jekka’s Herb Farm Open Days
	Jekka’s Herb Farm, Rose Cottage, Shellards Lane, Alveston, Bristol BS35 3SY	A unique opportunity to browse and buy amongst 600+ varieties of organically grown herbs, meet award winning Jekka, and pick up some expert tips and advice. No need to book unless you wish to attend a Herb Workshop, which must be pre-booked. Take advantage of expert advice and insider tips from Jekka and the team, and learn all about the intricate workings of an organic herb farm. Open to the public on each open day from 10am until 4pm. Entry is free on the Friday; £2 per person entry charge on Saturday and Sunday. Entry is free if you have pre-booked for a workshop, and also for Catalogue holders, members of the RHS, members of the Herb Society, West of England Herb Group and the Soil Association. Visit Jekkasherbfarm.com or call 01454 418878 for further information.
4 - 5 September 2010	West Sussex	West Dean Gardens - Totally Tomato Show
	West Dean, Nr Chichester, West Sussex.	West Dean’s Totally Tomato show is a foodie’s heaven. Tomato growers will have the chance to enter their produce into the Tastiest Tomato Competition, being run in conjunction with the British Tomato Growers' Association. The competition is open to anyone - amateur, professional, adult or child. Opening times: 10.30am - 5pm. Tickets: £7.50 (adults) £7.00 (over 60s) £3.50 (children 5 - 15) £18.50 Family Ticket (2 adults, 2 children) Children under 5 Free. Visit: westdean.org.uk for further info.
05 September 2010	Cheshire	Ness Botanic Garden - Plant Hunters’ Fair
	Ness Botanic Gardens, Ness, Neston, South Wirral, Cheshire, CH64 4AY	Plantsmen's Day including talks, gardeners question time and guided tours of the garden (fee for entry to garden). Set in the herb garden of this historic garden, once owned by the great nurseryman and plantsman, Arthur Bulley, which includes superb collections of Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Camellias, Cherries and Heathers as well as the National Plant Collection of Sorbus. Admission to plant fair, talks, plant clinic and Gardeners’ Question Time £1 redeemable against entry to the Gardens and for guided tours. Children Free. Visit Planthuntersfairs.co.uk and Nessgardens.org.uk for further information.
7-8 Sept	Cambridgeshire	Cambridge Botanic Garden - Willow work projects
	Cambridge Botanic Garden	Join Mary Butcher for this 2-day willow work course which is suitable for all levels of experience. Beginners will learn all the basic weaves needed to get started in basketry and will put these skills into practice by making a small round basket which they can take home. More experienced weavers will be able to work on individual basket projects involving more advanced shapes and forms. £90 payable in full on booking. To book call: 01223 331 875.
September - November 2010	Somerset	Derry Watkins - Practical gardening courses
	Cold Ashton, near Bath.	Enthusiasts attending courses at a special nursery and garden this autumn may look forward to expanding their horticultural prowess and practicing it at home. Renowned plantswoman Derry Watkins, who - with architect husband Peter Clegg – has created a breath-taking planted landscape at her home near Cold Ashton, 10 minutes from Bath, will be hosting a series of one-day practical gardening courses. Starting on Thursday, September 9, 2010, they continue to mid November. Each course runs from 10am to 4pm and includes coffee and homemade lunch. Numbers are limited to 15 to allow as much hands-on experience as possible. The cost is £75 for one place, and £65 for each further place or extra person booked. Advance booking is essential. Plants are for sale in the adjoining nursery, open seven days a week, where they are organised according to their needs and preferences. Dedicated staff will be happy to discuss sketches of visitors’ gardens and suggest the most suitable candidates. For more information and to book, contact Derry Watkins, Special Plants, Greenways Lane, Cold Ashton, Chippenham SN14 8LA. Telephone 01225 891686. E-mail derry@specialplants.net. Further information, including the programme of courses, visit www.specialplants.net.
9 - 12 September 2010	N/A	Heritage Open Days
	Nationwide	From Cumbria to Cornwall, Northumberland to Norfolk, properties across England will throw open their doors for free as part of the country’s annual celebration of local architecture, history and culture. Supported nationally by English Heritage and run locally by an army of volunteers and community champions. One million people are expected to take advantage of the four day event, exploring more than 4,000 properties of every style, period and function, many of which are normally closed to the public. They include Medieval cottages, timber-framed Tudor buildings, Gothic temples, Georgian townhouses, Victorian factories, Second World War defences, Art Deco cinemas, Modernist masterpieces and 21st-century eco-homes. People have the chance to visit historic, cultural and architectural gems not normally open to the public or which usually charge an admission fee. There is also an extensive events programme run by local organisers at museums, churches, historic parks and elsewhere, ranging from re-enactments of Roman life to battlefield walks. Full details of Heritage Open Days activities will be available from the website www.heritageopendays.org.uk from mid-July.
12 September 2010	City of London	The Spitalfields Show and Green Fair
	Allen Gardens and Spitalfields City Farm, Buxton Street, E1 5AR, London.	Annual horticultural show displaying fruit, flowers and vegetables, home-made produce and handicrafts plus a whole range of stalls run by groups and organisations with Fairtrade goods, healthy food, healing therapies and projects raising environmental awareness. Allen Gardens and Spitalfields City Farm, Buxton Street, E1 5AR. 12noon-5pm. Admission Free. Visit alternativearts.co.uk/events or call 020 7375 0441 for further information.
13 - 19 September 2010	Kent	A Taste of the Garden at Hever Castle
		Hever Castle will be celebrating all things home-grown and reared. The week-long event will highlight how rewarding it can be to ‘grow your own’ and how simple it is to get started. There will be a showcase of a wide variety of edible plants and flowers all grown at the castle. Visitors taking a stroll beside the Pompeiian Wall will be treated to the sight of grapes, citrus fruits, olives, chillies and aubergines and a children’s factsheet will help families identify the different types of produce. The Head Gardener will be on-hand with hints and tips on growing fruit and vegetables, learn about container gardening and discover how to grow plants like aubergines, chillies and sweet peppers from seed. There will also be a plant swap stall where visitors can bring their unwanted potted plants and exchange them with those provided by fellow gardeners and the team at Hever. Opening hours: Gardens open at 10.30am; Castle opens at 12pm. Last admission 5pm; final exit 6pm. Admission Prices: Adults £13.00; Seniors £11.00; Children £7.00; Family ticket £33.00. Telephone 01732 865224 or visit Hevercastle.co.uk
September - October 2010	Derbyshire	Beyond Limits – Chatsworth
		The monumental, contemporary sculpture exhibition Beyond Limits is returning to the Peak District home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire for seven weeks from mid-September. Starting on Monday 13 September and closing on Sunday 31 October, works by Manolo Valdes (‘Butterflies’ – picture at Chatsworth, available on request), Lynn Chadwick (‘Three Elektras’ – picture at Chatsworth available on request), Analdo Pomodoro, Damien Hirst, Marc Quinn, Subodh Gupta, Ju Ming and many others will be on display in Chatsworth’s famous 105-acre garden, designed by Capability Brown and Joseph Paxton. As it enters its fifth year at Chatsworth, Beyond Limits is firmly established as one of the leading events in the artistic calendar. With sculpture sales organised by Sotheby’s, the exhibition attracts serious collectors as well as thousands of art-lovers, everyday visitors and children. All exhibits will be on display from 11am-6pm every day at no extra charge beyond normal garden admission. Standard adult garden ticket is £7.50. Visit chatsworth.org for further information.
14 September 2010	Devon	Widecombe Fair
	Widecombe-in-the-moor, Dartmoor National Park.	Widecombe Fair at Fair Field in Devon is a traditional agricultural show with stalls and events from the ugliest vegetable display to family dog shows, gymkhanas, maypole dancing and bale tossing. Pedestrians £7.00, FREE entry to children under 16 years. Gates open at 9am. Visit widecombefair.com for more information.
17 - 19 September 2010	North Yorkshire	Harrogate Flower Show
	Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate, HG2 8PW.	September is the month when the garden is at it's most productive and in celebration of the season, top growers from across the UK will be exhibiting their very best produce at the Autumn Show 2010. 17-19 September at the Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate, HG2 8PW. The show is open 9.30am – 5.30pm Fri/Sat/Sunday. Visit Flowershow.org.uk or call 01423 546011 for info and tickets.
18 - 19 September 2010	Oxfordshire	Waterperry Gardens - Michaelmas Daisy Weekend
	Waterperry Gardens, Nr. Wheatley, Oxfordshire, OX33 1JZ	See Waterperry's herbaceous border in all its late summer glory as it springs to life again with beautiful Michaelmas Daisies (Asters). Nursery experts will be on hand to offer help and advice about growing Asters and plenty of Waterperry-grown varieties on sale too. Enjoy country food and crafts fair in the plant centre (free admission) and the Friends of Waterperry plant sale (Saturday only). Entrance fee applies for visits to the ornamental gardens. Bacon butty breakfasts available in the Teashop from 9.30am and hot food is available between 12 and 3pm. Saturday and Sunday 18th & 19th September. 10.30am to 4pm. (Gardens and plant centre open until 5.30pm). Visit Waterperrygardens.co.uk for further information.
18 September 2010	Gloucestershire	Autumn at Mill Dene Garden
	Mill Dene, Blockley, Moreton In Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9HU	A RHS recommended event. This is a great time of year to see the garden which will be rich in colour. An art exhibition of the Cotswolds gardens by David Birch will be on show too. Join the owner, Wendy Dare, for a personal tour of the garden, including stories of the tears and fun in its creation. This will be followed by a light herby lunch. RHS members £25. Non members £28.95. 01386 701 280. www.milldenegarden.co.uk
19 September 2010	Oxfordshire	Waterperry Gardens - NGS Day
	Waterperry Gardens, Nr. Wheatley, Oxfordshire, OX33 1JZ	Waterperry gardens are open in aid of the National Gardens Scheme - all entrance money will be donated to nursing, caring and gardening charities chosen by the NGS charity. Sunday 19th September. 10am to 5.30pm. Visit Waterperrygardens.co.uk for further information.
23 September 2010	Oxfordshire	Waterperry Gardens - Autumn Wild Walk and Breakfast
	Waterperry Gardens, Nr. Wheatley, Oxfordshire, OX33 1JZ	Join wildlife expert Ernie Bingham on a walk around the ornamental gardens spotting autumn visitors. This will be followed by a hearty breakfast in the Pear Tree Teashop and slide show of the more elusive Waterperry wildlife residents. Numbers are limited and children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet in the main car park and bring binoculars and appropriate clothing! Ticket prices Adults £17.50, concessions, students and children aged 16 and under £12.50. Thursday 23rd September. 7.30am. Visit Waterperrygardens.co.uk for further information.
24 September 2010	N/A	World's Biggest Coffee Morning with M&S
	Nationwide	Put a smile on your mug and help Macmillan Cancer Support! This year’s World’s Biggest Coffee Morning takes place on Friday 24 September. It couldn’t be easier – sign up, then check out Macmillan’s website for recipes, grab the apron, create chaos in the kitchen and whip up a frenzy of mouth-watering treats for your guests. Whether you do it at work, in the pub, at the cricket club or around your kitchen table, anyone can help Macmillan continue to provide vital services which help make a real difference to the lives of people affected by cancer. Two million people in the UK are living with cancer, and one in three will be diagnosed during their lifetime. Every donation, whether 50p or £50, will help Macmillan continue providing much needed support. This could be practical help with everyday tasks, financial advice and assistance to help with the unexpected costs of cancer, emotional support or expert medical care from a Macmillan professional. This year Coffee Morning falls on Friday 24 September but you can hold one whenever is most convenient for you. Just one small mug of coffee really can make a big difference so to make that cuppa count, register now at Macmillan.org.uk/coffee or call 0845 070 1315. You can also help raise money throughout August and September simply by popping in to your local M&S Café – the new Official Partner of the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning. Between Wednesday 4 August and Saturday 25 September, M&S will donate 10% of the value of a selection of sandwiches & sweet treats at its M&S Cafés. In addition, to celebrate the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning on 24 September, M&S Cafés will donate 50p for every coffee sold, all to help raise £8million to help Macmillan continue providing services which help make a real difference to the lives of people affected by cancer.
Autumn 2010	N/A	National Trust Gardens turn green this Autumn
	Nationwide	The colour of autumn in National Trust gardens this year is definitely green. Supported by Yorkshire and Clydesdale Banks, around twenty gardens across the UK will play host to fairs, festivals, events, activities and displays all with a green theme. Offering some of the best greener gardening techniques, ideas and advice around, together with a good helping of family fun, this promises to be the biggest green gardens fest of its kind. From large-scale Green Fairs at Nymans in Sussex and Beningbrough near York, to smaller events around the country details of all the green gardening events can be found on the website at Nationaltrust.org.uk/events. Normal admission prices apply, unless otherwise stated. No additional charge for fairs and events.
25 - 26 September 2010	Worcestershire	Malvern Autumn Show - A Celebration of Nature’s Harvest
	The Three Counties Agricultural Showground, Malvern, Worcs, WR13 6NW.	For food and gardening lovers alike, the Malvern Autumn Show brings together everything about nature at its finest. ‘The Good Life’ Pavilion, launched in 2009, highlights everything about good living. From running a smallholding, edible gardens, horticultural advice to cookery demonstrations and celebrity talks - this is fast becoming the heart of the show. Also enjoy delicious food and drink stands offering tastings and treats, spectacular displays from the top nurseries with expert advice from the RHS, giant veg competitions PLUS The Midland Vegetable Society Championships. Meet a selection of animals from around the world. Shop at hundreds of stands - ideal for a spot of early Christmas shopping. Visit the Forgotten Skills Marquee for rural crafts including felt making, wood turning, stick making and spinning. Visit threecounties.co.uk/malvernautumn or call 01684 584 900 for more information.
26 September 2010	North Yorkshire	Duncombe Park - Flower Power Plant Fair
	DUNCOMBE PARK Helmsley YO62 5EB North Yorkshire	An opportunity to buy those plants that you need to ensure your gardens keep their shape, colour and interest throughout the Autumn and Winter. With a selection of late flowering perennials, Autumn and Spring bulbs, and lots of wonderful foliage plants. Admission £2.00. Free parking. Refreshments in the Fountain Cafe beside the fair. Visit flowerpowerfairs.co.uk or duncombepark.com for further information.
October 2010	Lincolnshire	Burghley House - Autumn Colours Flower Festival
	Burghley House, Stamford.	Flowers will be the autumnal theme during October as Burghley brings the outdoors in courtesy of floral displays created by local flower societies that will transform 10 of the state rooms, offering a new perspective on England's greatest Elizabethan house. Each room will inspire the floral arrangement with societies taking their inspiration from the painted ceilings, seventeenth century art or the original purpose of a room, all with the guiding theme of Autumn Colours. For the first time, Burghley will also open the private South Gardens in October (weekdays only 11am to 4pm). Wrap up warm and enjoy the stunning autumn colours in the parkland with the backdrop of Burghley House. Visit Burghley.co.uk for further information.
01 October- 30 November 2010	Surrey	Kew - Walking Tour: A Tapestry of Trees
	Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AB	Kew’s celebration of the International Year of Biodiversity continues into the autumn. Join one of these colourful tours; with over 14,000 trees in its collection, Kew always puts on a spectacular autumn display Free. Call 020 8332 5655 or visit Kew.org for further information
2 - 3 October 2010	East Sussex	Nymans - Green Gardening & Living Fair
		If you want to be greener but are not sure how to go about it, go along to the Nymans Green Fair, powered by solar panels of course and discover what the National Trust is doing and what steps you can take yourself. Discover the recipe for perfect compost, how a wormery works, how to save water in the garden and learn how Nymans’ gardeners have been training plants to be drought resistant. With everything from eco-crafts and local foods to green gardening tips from the experts and a giant food miles game for children, the Green Fair will cover a wide range of green lifestyle solutions in a fun and interactive way. There will also be practical energy saving ideas and advice for the home. By the end of the day, all the family will be able to take home some great ideas to get started on greener living. For further information call: 01444 405250 or email nymans@nationaltrust.org.uk
2 - 3 October 2010	East Sussex	Great Dixter Plant Fair
		Great Dixter is staging its first Plant Fair on the first weekend of October 2010 (2nd and 3rd). Fergus Garrett, head gardener and chief executive of Great Dixter, has invited nurserymen from UK and Europe to participate including: Hans Kramer of Hessenhof from the Netherlands; Jennie Maillard of Usual & Unusual Plants, Bob Brown of Cotswold Garden Flowers, Marina Christopher of Phoenix Plants; Graham Gough of Marchants Plants; Tony Dickerson; Derry Watkins of Special Plants; Van Pouke from Belgium, Great Comp; Ewald Hugin from Germany. . Join specialists, growers and plantsmen in this plant-driven weekend. Talks by the nurserymen about their plants will be held at intervals throughout the Fair. Other stalls will include apple selling and pressing; old tools; basket weaving and food stalls by local artisans. The fair will also see the launch of The Christopher Lloyd Student Bursary - some of the profits from the fair will go towards a travel scholarship for horticultural students. Price entry for the Plant Fair will be included in the entry ticket to Great Dixter Gardens. 11am-4 pm. For further details email linda@greatdixter.co.uk or call 01797 254048.
2 & 3 October 2010	West Sussex	West Dean Gardens – Apple Affair
		Both West Dean House and Gardens will be open during the Apple Affair on 2 & 3 October. Visitors can take a peek inside the glorious flint-faced mansion then see a display of over 100 varieties of apple grown in the Victorian walled kitchen garden. Discover apples of every shape and size. Taste the different varieties and bring along apples from your own garden to be identified by one of the apple experts at the show. A family event for all ages, with stallholders offering an array of apple-based foods and drinks to taste and buy, as well as activities for the children including apple bobbing, and the ever-popular Big Draw drawing competition. Opening times: 10.30am - 5pm. Tickets: £7.50 (adults) £7.00 (over 60s) £3.50 (children 5 - 15) £18.50 Family Ticket (2 adults, 2 children) Children under 5 Free. Visit Westdean.org.uk for further information.
2 – 3 October 2010	West Sussex	South of England Centre Autumn Show & Game Fair, Ardingly
	The South of England Centre, Ardingly, West Sussex, RH17 6TL	The show is open from 9am-5pm on both days. With ample free parking, come early and enjoy the day. Admission prices for the show are £6.00 for adults, £5.00 for students & senior citizens, £3.00 for children under 16 and £15.00 for a family ticket (2 adults/2 children). Society members and children under 5 years are free. Further details and advance ticket information are available on the website Seas.org.uk or from the South of England Centre on 01444 892700.
4 - 10 October 2010	Lincolnshire	Burghley House - Flower Festival
	Burghley House, Stamford, Lincs, PE9 3JY	To coincide with the opening of the South Gardens in October, The State Rooms will showcase a glorious selection of autumnal flowers by local flower societies, with the theme of ‘Autumn Colours’. Each room will have a stunning display inspired by its furniture, works of art and paintings and will enhance its specific style. Visit www.burghley.co.uk, telephone 01780 752451 or email: burghley@burghley.co.uk for further information.
5 - 6 October 2010	City of London	RHS Autumn Harvest Show 2010, Westminster
	RHS Horticultural Halls, Greycoat Street, London, SW1	For the first time RHS Chelsea Show Manager, Alex Denman, will be turning her talents to the RHS Autumn Harvest Show, to organise a floral and foodie feast where visitors can see, taste and buy some of the wonders of the season. Autumn is a perfect time for planting and nurserymen and growers will demonstrate the art of creating stunning hanging baskets, pot containers and patio features, so visitors go home inspired to make more out of their outside space. One of the many highlights will be a spectacular ‘walk-through’ feature of dahlias and fruit and vegetables by Jon Wheatley, in association with Winchester Growers. Jon helped design the gold medal-standard RHS feature, Home Grown, at Hampton Court Palace Flower Show 2010 and won gold medals at Hampton and RHS Chelsea for sumptuous dahlia displays. Another RHS Chelsea 2010 Gold-medal winner, Interflora, will create a vast, show-stopping curtain of autumn flowers and foliage draped spectacularly from the ceiling. The Halls will be teeming with RHS medal winning floral exhibitors as well as exciting new talent from all over the country. Mouth-watering produce, like apples, pumpkins and carrots will line the tables of Lindley Hall for a major fruit and vegetable competition to showcase champion produce. Other harvest displays include salads, chutney, chillies and a whole array of immaculately presented delights to tempt both the eye and palate. To book tickets in advance call 0845 612 1253, or visit Rhs.org.uk/londonshows.
06 – 10 October 2010	Kent	Leeds Castle – Autumn Glory Flower Festival
		Fabulous flower arrangements transform the castle rooms into floral works of art at this year's Autumn Glory Flower Festival. Local florists, flower societies and clubs compete for the best arrangement, with participants taking inspiration from the Harvest Festival. Vote for your favourite display. This event is included in the price of admission. Visit Leeds-castle.com for further information.
7 October 2010	Cambridgeshire	Cambridge Botanic Garden - Wild Food
	Cambridge University Botanic Garden, 1 Brookside, Cambridge, CB2 1JE.	A one-day workshop introducing some of the most common, edible, autumn wild plants where you will learn how to identify these plants and turn them into tasty dishes. The course will look at which wild foods grow at the Garden and there will be the opportunity to sample some simple yet delicious wild food recipes. Advice will be offered for those interested in managing their own garden to produce a wild harvest. £45 payable in full on booking. To book call 01223 331 875.
8 – 10 October 2010	Oxfordshire	Waterperry Gardens – Apple Weekend
		Apple Weekend is a celebration of our native fruit. Taste and try numerous different apple and juice varieties, get your mystery apple crop identified, take tours of the orchards and get information and advice about growing fruit in your garden. Free tours of the orchards take place at 11am, 1.30pm and 3pm for one hour each. Enjoy country food and crafts fair in the plant centre and apple bobbing. Visit Waterperrygardens.co.uk or call 01844 339254 for further information.
13 October 2010	Rutland	Barnsdale – Introduction to Organic Vegetable Growing
	Barnsdale Garden, Rutland	This one-day course led by Nick Hamilton is aimed at both gardening novices and those who want to know more about growing vegetables organically. The day begins by looking at organic principles, soil types, nutrients and organic fertilisers. After lunch in the Barnsdale Tea Room, you will look at various organic matters and the pros and cons of each, pest and disease problems and how to cope with them organically and finally, how to achieve effective crop rotation. The course combines classroom learning with practical, ‘on the vegetable plot' discussions and a full set of handouts will be provided at the end of the day. £55, including buffet lunch. 13 October, 10.30pm-3.30pm. Booking essential. Call 01572 813200 or email courses@barnsdalegardens.co.uk
14 October 2010	Somerset	Hestercombe Gardens – Fungal Foray
	Hestercombe Gardens, Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton, Somerset. TA2 8LG	Always a popular garden event - Michael Jordan, author and Chairman of the British Fungus Groups, leads an informative and fascinating walk through the Gardens to discover and identify the many different types of mushrooms. Michael will give advice on collecting and safely cooking one of nature's bountiful harvests. 10.30am - 12.30pm. Guided walk £7 including tea or coffee. Garden admission fee applies. Booking advisable. Visit Hestercombe.com or call 01823 413923 for further information.
16 – 17 October 2010	Warwickshire	Garden Organic Ryton – Apple Weekend
		Expert advice and tips on how to grow apples at home, along with tastings, children's activities and fruit identifications (Sunday only). 11am - 4pm. Garden admission: Buy one get one free. Visit Gardenorganic.org.uk or call 024 7630 8202 for further information.
16 - 17 October 2010	Buckinghamshire	Waddesdon Plant Centre - Apple & Autumn Fruits Food Fair
	WADDESDON MANOR, Waddesdon, Nr Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH.	As well as apples, there'll be ciders and juices to try, home cooked dishes in the Plant Centre café and a local food and produce market. 10.30-4.00. Admission FREE. Normal admission charges apply to Waddesdon Manor and Gardens. Call 01296 653226 or visit Waddesdon.org.uk for further information.
19 October 2010	Rutland	Barnsdale – Vegetables All the Year Round
	Barnsdale Garden, Rutland	This full-day course, aimed at both experienced and novice vegetables growers, combines classroom learning with practical, 'on the vegetable plot' discussions to provide the knowledge to achieve year-round produce from the garden. The course starts by considering the vegetables that can be had every month of the year, either fresh from the garden or from stored produce. Different vegetables and specific varieties that contribute to an earlier or longer season are considered as well as the important topic of propagation by seed. Nick takes the class through growing in beds using the mild and hot bed system, crop storage, the importance of catch crops, as well as materials that can be used to extend the growing season. At the end of the course, attendees will be able to plan and implement a cropping programme that will give them vegetables all year round. Price £55, including buffet lunch. 19 October, 10am-3.30pm. Booking essential. Call 01572 813200 or email courses@barnsdalegardens.co.uk
19 October 2010	Surrey	Ken Thompson Talk – “Some Modern Gardening Myths”
	RHS Wisley, Surrey	Dr Thompson will be exploring many gardening myths including companion planting, does it work and why does it work; planting by the moon - how and why; how good are 'superfoods' and are there better alternatives. Part of the Alitex lecture series the talk will take place at 10.30am on 19 October at RHS Garden Wisley. Tickets are £10, contact Alitex at enquiries@alitex.co.uk or telephone 01730 826 900 to reserve your place for this special opportunity.
23 October 2010	Warwickshire	Garden Organic Ryton – Pumpkin Show
		Come and see how local children did with their pumpkin seeds planted earlier in the year. Pumpkins on show from midday, with winners announced at 2pm. Show entry free. Garden admission: Up to 3 children FREE with one full paying adult. Visit Gardenorganic.org.uk or call 024 7630 8202 for further information.
23 – 31 October 2010	Oxfordshire	Waterperry Gardens – The Great Pumpkin Hunt
		Give the kids an exciting challenge by taking part in the Great Pumpkin Hunt. Throughout half term week join the race to find 8 pumpkins hidden in the gardens - and at other locations around the estate - to win a special, seasonal, edible prize! Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. No need to book - just turn up and enjoy. Visit Waterperrygardens.co.uk or call 01844 339254 for further information.
23 – 24 October 2010	North Yorkshire	Countryside Live Show, Yorkshire
	The Yorkshire Agricultural Society, Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate, HG2 8PW	A great day out with the family, Countryside Live aims to bring the countryside to you - you'll see livestock, equine competitions, cookery demonstrations, hands-on crafts for you and the children plus Graham Fletcher is back with his amazing horsemanship demonstrations. Visit Countrysidelive.co.uk or call the ticket hotline on 01423 541000.
October – December 2010	N/A	Crafts for Christmas Fairs
	Nationwide	A unique opportunity to purchase inspirational craftwork and design-led gifts to delight your friends and family with exciting toys, elegant accessories, stylish clothes, classic and contemporary interiors and unusual stocking fillers. Meet Britain’s most talented makers, orders taken for special requirements and all made individually for people who wish to be individual. The Crafts for Christmas Specialist Food area is brimming with traditionally produced, meats, pies, cheeses, chocolates and truffles, Christmas puddings and cakes. Add an extra dimension to your festive table this year with olives, Parma ham, dips, relishes, chutneys, flavoured coffees and country soups. Fill your cupboards with delicious festive delights to suit every occasion and excellent presents too. Fair this year are on at: Ardingly College 29th - 31st October 2009; The Kent Pavilions 6th - 8th November 2009; The Yorkshire Event Centre 12th - 15th November 2009; The Savill Garden 26th - 29th November 2009; Burghley House 3rd - 6th December 2009; RHS Garden Wisley 8th - 13th December 2009. For further information visit ruralcraftsassociation.co.uk.
30 – 31 October 2010	City of London	Venn Street Market & The Manor Arms Beer Festival, London
		Venn Street Market and local ale house The Manor Arms in Clapham are running a local beer festival of British guest ales. All ales available will be seasonal made by small independent breweries from England’s South East. The Manor Arms pub, located at 128 Clapham Manor Street, is a veteran of selling real ales to its customers and has been organising festivals for the past 5 years. Venn Street Market will be offering a variety of beers on sale from the likes of Acorn Brewery in Barnsley who produce Dark Milds from an original Barnsley Bitter yeast strain dating back to the 1850s; Hepworth a relatively new organic producer; Downton who produce a different monthly special as well as regular and seasonal beers; Isle of Purbeck producers of a seasonal selection of ales from their ten barrel brewing equipment; O’Hanlon’s producers of prize winning beers and Loddon in Oxfordshire who produce monthly and seasonal ales from their 240 year old brick and flint barn. With an increasing number of pub goes preferring craft brewed beers made with wholesome barley malt and whole hops, we are increasingly rejecting the computer controlled global beers with rice, maize, hop oils and other cheap ingredients. The demand for ‘local beer for local people’ takes on an added dimension as we count our air miles and carbon footprints.
4 - 7 November 2010	Buckinghamshire	Waddesdon Christmas Gift Fair
	WADDESDON MANOR, Waddesdon, Nr Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH.	Beat the crowds and the queues in the shops and find that unusual gift for Christmas. Thursday 4th - Sunday 7th November, 10.30-4.00. Normal garden admission charges apply: £5.50 weekdays, £7.00 weekends. NT members: Free. Call 01296 653226 or visit Waddesdon.org.uk for further information.
06/07 November 2010	Kent	Leeds Castle – Fireworks Spectacular
		Hailed as one of the finest firework displays in the country. A pyrotechnic spectacular set to foot tapping film scores all the family can sing along to. Go for the evening performance or arrive early to catch the afternoon entertainment.  Adult: £17; Child (under 16 years): £10 Group rates (15 or more) Adult: £15; Child: £9 Under 4’s free (must be reserved at the time of booking). Visit leeds-castle.com for further information or call the Box Office on 01622 880008.
10 November 2010	Cambridgeshire	Cambridge Botanic Garden - Introduction to autumn garden photography
	Cambridge University Botanic Garden, 1 Brookside, Cambridge, CB2 1JE.	Practical one day photography course suitable for beginners or more experienced photographers. Learn how to take better pictures of garden scenes, plant portraits and close-up detail, making the most of any seasonal interest. Any type of digital camera can be used on this course and with small groups it will ensure you get the most from your day. The course tutor is Pete Murray, RHS & AGS gold medal photographer. £45 payable in full on booking. To book call 01223 331 875.
11 November 2010	Warwickshire	Garden Organic Ryton – Pruning for Beginners
		Learn pruning skills on this practical course. You will learn about safety in the garden, different cutting tools and their maintenance, and various pruning and cutting techniques. After a demonstration on the trees and shrubs in our Gardens, you will have an opportunity to practise and by the end of the session you will have confidence to tackle your own basic pruning. Course includes pruning of roses and other ornamental shrubs, woody pruning, and coppicing. Members £24.00  Non-members £30.00. 2pm to 4pm. Places are limited. For further information visit Gardenorganic.org.uk or to book a place call 024 7621 7717.
13 - 14 November 2010	Worcestershire	Webbs - Amaryllis Weekend
	Webbs, Worcester Road, Wychbold, Droitwich Spa, WR9 0DG	See a display of stunning Amaryllis (Hippeastrum) flowers and get expert tips and advice on growing the plants along with special offers all weekend. 11am - 4pm. Visit Webbsdirect.co.uk or call 01527 860 000 for further information.
14 November 2010	Hertfordshire	Hatfield House – Christmas Market
		This year's Christmas Market at Hatfield House takes place on Saturday 13th November from 10:30am to 4pm in the Riding School Conference Centre. The entrance to Hatfield House is opposite Hatfield Train Station. A great opportunity to get your Christmas shopping in early. Entrance is just £2 and accompanied children go free. 10.30 - 4pm. For more information visit Hatfield-house.co.uk or call 01707 262632.
20 – 21 November 2010	Kent	Leeds Castle – Festive Fair
		Over 150 exhibitors showcase their wares in a heated and carpeted marquee. Traditional and innovative gift ideas, stocking fillers and festive food and drink, plus Christmas card making for children.  There is a small additional £2 charge for entry into the Festive Fair. Visit Leeds-castle.com for further information.
27 – 28 November 2010	Oxfordshire	Christmas at Waterperry Gardens
	Waterperry Gardens,  Nr. Wheatley, Oxfordshire, OX33 1JZ	Get your Christmas shopping underway with beautiful and unique gift ideas provided by local artists and craftspeople. Celebrate the festive season with wreath and decoration-making demonstrations, festive food and free visits to Santa Claus for the under-10's. Browse beautiful decorations and present ideas in the Gift Barn and pick up your Waterperry-grown Christmas tree. The Gallery also has a wide range of gifts to suit every taste and budget and the Teashop offers seasonal fare as well as the chance to buy festive produce as gifts. Visit Waterperrygardens.co.uk or call 01844 339254 for further information.
1 December 2010	Cambridgeshire	Cambridge Botanic Garden - Winter & Christmas Flowers
	Cambridge University Botanic Garden	A new one day course creating beautiful and striking floral displays using winter stems, berries and seasonal foliage. Suitable for both beginners and the more experienced, this course will cover the basic floristry skills you need to create table centre pieces, wreaths and ideas for individual place settings for the busy festive season. £45 Payable in full on booking. To book call 01223 331 875.
4, 5, 8-12 December 2010	Buckinghamshire	Waddesdon Christmas Food Market
	WADDESDON MANOR, Waddesdon, Nr Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH.	Start your Christmas food shopping early with local products. There is something for everyone including fresh ducks, chutneys, specialist cheeses, smoked meats, local game, fresh pies, olives and fresh Italian breads. Saturday 4, Sunday 5 December and Wednesday 8 - Sunday 12 December. 10.30-4.00. Normal Gardens admission charges apply. Call 01296 653226 or visit Waddesdon.org.uk for further information.
4 – 12 December 2010	Cheshire	Arley Hall & Gardens – Christmas Floral Extravaganza
	Arley Hall & Gardens,  Northwich,  Cheshire,  CW9 6NA	The Magic of Christmas comes alive with the scent and spectacle of thousands of fresh flowers in breathtaking floral decorations around the historic Hall. The Hall is magnificently decorated by local Florists. With Floral demonstrations and candlelight and carol evenings it’s a beautiful time of year. A craft fair on the first weekend with artists and bell rings in the courtyard of Olympia make this an extra special Christmas celebration. Visit Arleyhallandgardens.com for further information.
5 December 2010	Warwickshire	Garden Organic Ryton – Make Natural Christmas Decorations
		Nothing could be more truly 'green' than using materials from the garden or collected from local hedgerows to make your own Christmas decorations. This is a practical workshop, using willow/birch and other materials to make wreaths, garlands, wall hanging stars and tree decorations to take home. 2pm - 4pm. Members £24.00 (includes cost of materials) Non-members £30.00 (includes cost of materials). Places are limited. For further information visit Gardenorganic.org.uk or to book a place call 024 7621 7717.
06 – 24 December 2010	N/A	Leeds Castle – Christmas at the Castle
		Enter a magical world of enchantment as you wander through the castle rooms, beautifully decorated with scenes inspired by classic pantomimes with Father Christmas in his grotto and special evening openings. This event is included in the price of admission. Visit Leeds-castle.com for further information.
6 December 2010	Somerset	The Lost Gardens of Heligan – A Cornish Christmas Night
		The Lost Gardens of Heligan celebrates the festive season with an enchanting Cornish Christmas evening. Join in the Christmas spirit on a magical lantern-lit tour of the Northern Gardens, have a late-night browse in the Heligan and Lobbs Farm Shops, and indulge in a freshly baked mince pie served with lashings of carols and Cornish cream. Delight your senses on a free lantern lit tour of the Northern Gardens. Discover the beautiful world of The Lost Gardens by night as you are guided along pathways past pools, glasshouses and secret grottos beautifully lit for this special occasion. Free lantern lit tours will be departing regularly from the Covered Area between 5.30pm and 7.30pm. Free entry and free parking. Everyone is invited along to shop ‘til they drop or simply to relax into the Christmas spirit with family and friends. The Heligan Shop, Heligan Tearoom and Lobbs Farm Shop will all be open until 9pm.
11 December 2010	Cambridgeshire	Cambridge Botanic Garden - Winter tree ID
	Cambridge University Botanic Garden	Can you recognise a deciduous tree after leaf fall in the autumn? Do you know your ash from your elder? This practical course will help you to develop skills and confidence in identifying our common trees in winter, through recognition of tree outline, bark structure and twig characteristics. £45 Payable in full on booking. To book call 01223 331 875.

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