A garden tour at The Herbal Garden
The Herbal Garden is a working organic garden, created and tended by hand and always changing with the seasons. A garden tour is an opportunity to explore it with me, to discover the plants growing here and to hear some of the stories, uses and ideas behind them.
Herbs are woven throughout the garden rather than kept to one area. You will find them growing amongst the fruit trees, alongside vegetables, through the flower borders and in the medicinal garden. As we walk, I can share how I grow and use them, why particular plants have found their place in the garden, and some of the lessons I have learnt along the way.
What to expect
We begin in the orchard, amongst the heritage fruit trees, where we can talk about the different varieties growing here, the new production beds, the greenhouse and why herbs and other plants are grown beneath and around the trees. From there we move into the kitchen garden, with its central potager where herbs grow alongside vegetables and edible plants and play an important part in the way this area is planted.
The tour then takes us through the quieter flower garden, past the Tea House and heritage roses, before entering the medicinal garden with its individual beds devoted to different groups of medicinal herbs. From here we pass through the Alice Gates into the wider garden. Depending on the group, we may continue exploring together, or you may prefer to wander at your own pace and discover the rest of the garden for yourself. There is plenty of time to explore before making your way back to the shop.
There is no set script. We can stop and talk about the things that interest you — from the plants themselves and how the garden has developed, to organic growing, permaculture, harvesting and using herbs. There is always plenty to see, smell and discover, and because the garden changes throughout the season, every visit is a little different.
Practical information
Garden tours
Garden tours are available Wednesday to Sunday between 10am and 4pm, by arrangement, and take approximately 1½ hours. Group visits can also be arranged for Mondays and Tuesdays, and occasional evening visits may be possible by arrangement.
Garden Tour — $15 per person
Garden Tour with tea, coffee & cake — $30 per person
Visitors are also welcome to bring a picnic and spend some extra time enjoying the garden.
Around the garden
Normal comfortable footwear is suitable for a visit. The garden can be accessed by wheelchair, although much of the tour is over grass and natural garden surfaces. If you have any accessibility requirements, do get in touch before your visit and we can talk through what will work best for you.
Group Visits
The Herbal Garden welcomes garden clubs, social groups, car clubs and other organised groups. Groups of up to 50 people can be accommodated, with on-site parking for up to 20 cars.
Groups are welcome to bring their own picnic or refreshments. Hot water can be provided free of charge, and cups can be supplied for a small additional charge. Alternatively, tea, coffee and cake can be arranged as part of the visit. Gazebos can also be provided for larger groups when needed.
Garden clubs, car clubs, social groups and other organised groups are arranged individually so the visit can be tailored to the group. Please get in touch to discuss dates, numbers, refreshments and any other requirements.
Contact me about a group visitBook a Garden Tour
Garden tours for individuals, couples and small groups can be booked online. Choose an available date and time that suits you and complete your booking below.