Description

About the Venue:
Cressing Temple is a site rich in history. Built in the 13th century, the magnificent Grade I listed Barley and Wheat Barns were part of a large farmstead owned by the Knights Templar. The original Walled Garden was built c.1550 -1600, during the reign of Elizabeth I, a formal pleasure garden to serve the wealthy occupants of the Tudor Great House which once stood on the site. Only the Tudor wall remains of the original garden but the present layout is a faithful recreation of a manor house garden of the time. Evidence from 15th and 16th century illuminated manuscripts and early printed books were used to inform the design, which contains all the elements you would expect of a Tudor garden, including medicinal herbs, a flowery mead, knot garden and potager.

About the Tutors:
Alison and Rebecca are the Head Gardeners at Cressing Temple. They are keen advocates of growing and using sustainable and renewable resources such as willow, hazel and dogwood. They have a number of years’ experience of using these materials for garden projects such as plant supports and fencing.

Workshop Description:
Enjoy a full day learning how to make willow fencing and hurdles. The Workshop will start with an introduction to basketry willow and willow weaving. During the day attendees will make 2 low willow hurdles of between 1 – 1.2m long to take home with them. Attendees will also be able to help make a length of hazel and willow fencing in situ, and get advice on how to make fencing like this in their own garden. There will also be an opportunity during the day to learn how we grow and harvest willow, hazel etc at Cressing Temple and use the material in the gardens for supporting plants and making fencing.

There will be a chance for attendees to look around the garden and wider site before/after the workshop and during the lunch break.

Timings:
Start: 10:00
Ends: 16:00

Refreshments/Lunch:
Tea, coffee, water and biscuits will be provided.
Please bring packed lunch, or visit the Tiptree Tearoom on site.

Directions:
From Colchester/London: Take the A12 to Witham. Head out towards Braintree on the B1018. Cressing Temple Barns are well sign-posted.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Witham Railway Station, which is 3 miles away.

Other: The site is not on a bus route, but taxis are usually available from Witham station.

Meeting Point:
Please park in main car park and meet at Reception.

Important Points/Please Bring:
Working with willow is moderately hard work and does require a firm grip. Most of the workshop will take place outside. Participants should wear clothes suitable for the weather conditions on the day and bring gloves and boots/sturdy footwear.

Please bring a pair of sharp secateurs. (All other tools/equipment will be provided).

Costs:
Members £90 | non-members £110

Please read the Terms & Conditions for our Standard Cancellation Policy.