9.30am to 4.30pm

The course

By popular request this day gives the opportunity to explore not only the numerous gardens in the Museum, but many out of the way places between. On a relaxed, guided tour with a difference, Christina will unlock the secrets of the herbal folklore and uses for plants growing in the woods, hedges, alongside tracks and by the water. There is sure to be some wildlife in evidence as a bonus. There will be details of medical applications for herbs, past and present alike, edible weeds, dyes, pest repellents and more. Whether your interest is in botany, beauty, fragrance, flavours for cookery, times of gathering, safe use, recognising dangerous plants, or country lore - there will be fascinating discoveries for all. The wide range of habitats at the Museum will ensure an interesting day with an occasional opportunity to rest.

The tutor

Christina Stapley BSc (Hons) MCPP is a qualified medical herbalist with a degree in Phytotherapy (plant therapy) and practises in Wiltshire.  She has grown some 300 herbs, studied and used them for over 30 years.  Her Hampshire garden was featured on television several times. 

Her knowledge of herb history is shared in historical herb workshops at Butser Ancient Farm, the Weald & Downland Open Air Museum, the Chiltern Open Air Museum and other centres in Somerset and East Anglia.

She has written three books on cultivating and using herbs in cookery, fragrant recipes, wines and liqueurs, crafts and home remedies.  Christina has also edited and interpreted a 17th century book of cookery and physic recipes.

Participant information

Places are limited to 12 people. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear as a considerable amount of the day will be spent outside, and a fold-up portable seat if you prefer not to stand for a long time. Please also remember a pen and paper for taking notes and a camera, if you wish.  

Fee

£50 per person, including tuition, teas and coffees.
The Museum café will be open for lunch-time snacks or alternatively participants can bring their own packed lunch.

The Museum

The Weald & Downland Open Air Museum has over 45 historic building exhibits.  It is also home to the award winning and innovative Downland Gridshell, which houses a conservation workshop and artefact store, and is also used for many practical courses.  The Museum runs a full programme of courses in historic building conservation and traditional rural trades and crafts, along with MSc programmes in Building Conservation and Timber Building Conservation. Please telephone for further details.

To book, download a form here. Alternatively, fill in the booking request below.

Make a Booking Request

 
This is an initial booking request form, and does not guarantee a place on the course. The Adult Learning Team will check the availability of the course, and reply to you as soon as possible - usually within one working day.