The Garden History Detective's Gallery

This gallery is where I gather images I have taken across historic garden sites in the UK for you to view and enjoy.

Explore my Garden Talks

Garden Talks & Lectures

Merton Russell Cotes - talks cover image, for page Garden Talks & Lectures.

Merton's Dream Garden: The Story of the Russell-Cotes Garden - Book Now

Phil has been Lead Garden Volunteer at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum in Bournemouth since 2020. His talk will cover the original design and layout of this cliff-top garden and how it has evolved, highlighting key features, with a spotlight on plants and showcasing how it looks through the seasons.

Clavell Folly - talks cover image, for page Garden Talks & Lectures as well as The Garden History Detective's Gallery

Architecturally Eccentric Follies & Grottoes (Spring 2025)

Phil has always been intrigued with follies and grottoes when visiting historic gardens and landscapes. This talk delves into the origins of these creations and showcases those that lie within Dorset and surrounding counties.

Hardy's Cottage, talks cover image, for page Garden Talks & Lectures, & Garden Talk & Lecture News

Thomas Hardy's Gardens: A study of Hardy's Cottage & Max Gate (Spring 2025)

In collaboration with the National Trust, the format of this lecture will cover the garden history at both sites, Hardy’s birthplace cottage at Higher Bockhampton and Max Gate, in Dorchester.

Already have a talk in mind?

Pop your details in the form, and let me know which talk you’re interested in and if you have any prospective dates in mind. I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

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