CHRISTMAS AT DODDINGTON
In this workshop, you will learn how to identify some of our native tree species; from the shape of leaves, texture of bark and the overall form of the tree.
The English countryside is home to many beautiful species. On the Doddington Estate, we are lucky to have some interesting examples of oak, beech, sweet chestnut, sycamore, hawthorn, poplar and more.
We will spend time both in the classroom and outside in the parkland close to the Hall, taking a closer look at some of the wonderful specimens here.
This is a practical workshop that will focus on native tree species, the types you are likely to come across in the English countryside. As well as identification skills, you will learn about the natural and cultural history associated with different trees.
Time spent in the classroom (approximately 1.5 hours) will be combined with time in the parkland/woodland (approximately 1.5-2 hours). We will be outside whatever the weather, walking to view trees on paths that are firm but uneven in places. So appropriate footwear and clothing is essential.
Your guide, Guy Petheram, has been involved with plants for over twenty years. He has a particular love for trees and wild plants, and is passionate about sharing his knowledge.
No prior knowledge is needed
Saturday 20 June 2026, 10am – 1/1.30pm
Tickets: £30 per person
Meet Your Guide – Guy Petheram
“As a garden designer for more than 15 years I have, above all, developed a passion for plants and in some ways increasingly see myself as a ‘plant advocate’. My eyes have been opened to their many qualities, not just the exquisite beauty of many, but also their fascinating characters and survival strategies, and their central role both ecologically and to our cultural heritage. Of all the plants, trees are perhaps the most powerful presence in our landscape, captivating and intriguing in equal measure, and it is this appreciation that I love to share.”
Based in Lincolnshire & Suffolk, Guy has been designing gardens and advising clients for more than 15 years throughout the East of England, and beyond, helping them to create their own green havens, from large country gardens to small town yards. Increasingly his focus is on providing advice and inspiration throughout teaching and on-site consultations.
Promoting gardens that are as sustainable as possible is a key focus, and exhibits at RHS Flower Shows over many years have demonstrated his environmental commitment – Hampton Court in 2010 (‘Human Nature’ – silver-gilt award), Hampton Court in 2009 (‘Coppice’ – silver award) and Tatton Park in 2006 (‘The Function Room’ – silver award).
Guy has worked as a garden design lecturer at Nottingham Trent University, has been a tutor with Learning with Experts and delivers a range of talk & workshops at various venues including Doddington Hall (nr. Lincoln), Sheffield Botanical Gardens and RHS Harlow Carr (nr. Harrogate). He has also worked as a project manager for the BBC series Garden Rescue and, on occasion, contributed articles to a range of magazines including The Garden and the Garden Design Journal.
If you think this would make the perfect present for someone you care wildly about, then why not gift them a Wilder Experience?
