Therapeutic Horticulture in the Outer Estate
Gardening programmes for those experiencing health-related problems, designed to improve mental and physical wellbeing.
Run by our therapeutic horticulture practitioners, our Therapy Garden is tucked away at Eden in the Outer Estate, and is here to lift your spirits and make you feel at home.
You will meet like-minded people, connect with nature and learn basic gardening skills while allowing the beautiful surroundings to soothe your mind.
Activities are structured to enable people to do as much or as little as they wish and to work at their own pace and allow time to gradually build confidence and skills.
Booking is essential. For more information and to book a place, call 01726 818550 or email natureconnections@edenproject.com
This activity is part of our Nature Connections programme of activities for better health and wellbeing.
gallery
What is Therapeutic Horticulture
Therapeutic Horticulture participants
We’re here to help
With the benefits of gardening in mind, we run sessions in our peaceful Outer Estate for those experiencing health-related problems.
There are a number of different programmes to choose from, whether you’d just like a quiet space to be in nature, or you’d like to develop your practical gardening skills. You don’t need to be an experienced gardener to come along.
All sessions are delivered by our friendly therapeutic horticulture practitioners, Julia and James, and you’ll get the opportunity to meet like-minded others.
Programmes on offer
About these sessions:
Our ‘Introduction to Gardening’ sessions invite you to garden in a peaceful environment, to help improve wellbeing. We incorporate some art-based activities too, and there is the option to do, willow weaving and bush craft.
Who are they for?
People who are feeling fed up, in need of company, or who just want to do something different with their days.
When are the sessions?
Week days 10am – 1pm. Further information available by emailing natureconnections@edenproject.com or calling 01726 818550
How do I join?
Please complete this form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.
About these sessions:
Leading on from our ‘Introduction to Gardening’, these are structured sessions to build gardening skills and increase confidence and wellbeing.
This course includes the opportunity to try out a range of horticulture techniques and traditional natural crafts, such as willow weaving and green wood working. We also incorporate art activities and outdoor cooking.
Who are they for?
People who are feeling fed up, in need of company, or who just want to do something different with their days.
When are the sessions?
Week days 10am – 1pm. Further information available by emailing natureconnections@edenproject.com or calling 01726 818550
How do I join?
Please complete this form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.
About these sessions:
Structured sessions to extend your gardening skills, horticultural knowledge, confidence and wellbeing.
We offer the opportunity to do the RHS Level 1 in Horticulture and to gain an accredited horticulture qualification.
Who are they for?
People who are feeling fed up, in need of company, or who just want to do something different with their days.
When are the sessions?
Week days 10am – 1pm. Further information available by emailing natureconnections@edenproject.com or calling 01726 818550
How do I join?
Please complete this form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.
In the Therapy Garden
You’ll find a mixture of secluded spots and open areas. There are raised beds, a wildlife pond, polytunnels for growing, teaching and propagating, and a fire pit.
During your visits, there is time to appreciate your surroundings, to really see, smell, taste and feel the garden, which can help reduce anxiety and lift depression. Plus, if you’re trying to eat more healthily, harvesting what you’ve grown means there are plenty of chances to take home your five-a-day.
Join the programme
Therapeutic Horticulture application form
Frequently Asked Questions
Please wear suitable clothing to keep you comfortable, whatever the weather conditions. Layers are often a good way to adapt to our unpredictable weather. Please wear flat, strong outdoor footwear, such as wellies, walking boots or trainers. We have a range of waterproof jackets and boots available for the sessions so please don’t be put off because you don’t have suitable outdoor clothing.
Yes, please make us aware when you are booking your place.
Well behaved dogs that are happy around other dogs and people are welcome. We reserve the right to ask that any dog which becomes aggressive or unmanageable during the session is removed from the session.
We’ve tried to make the garden as accessible as possible. However, there are different surfaces and levels in the therapy garden, which might make walking or using a wheel chair a little bit more challenging for someone with significant mobility difficulties. We would be happy to discuss your access needs in more detail over the telephone and to arrange a visit before you register for sessions.
Programme sponsors
