Talks for 2022

Hear the story of coffee’s origins and journey around the world. Dan Lacey of Extract Coffee Roasters will give an insight into species and cultivars, and the factors that influence flavour (with tastings).

Somerset perfumier Jones and Modha describe their use of essential oils to create a beautiful, natural, synthetic-free fragrance, not tested on animals, and kind to the planet (with sales).

Tom Thorn, Head Gardener at Ashton Court, will guide us through their gardens, including the wonderful Millennium Rose Garden.

Because we have expanded capacity on the tour, non-members are now also welcome: no charge for members, non-members £5 (cash please).

We will meet in the Stables Courtyard at 10.45am for an 11am start.

Use the Ashton Court Mansion car park, BS41 9JN. Parking is £1.20 and there are 10 disabled bays.

In the Courtyard, there are toilets (including 2 disabled) and a cafe with indoor and outdoor seating. You may prefer to bring your own picnic.

Spare herb plants would be welcomed by our speaker, as there is a plan to plant a small herb garden.

The Bristol Fungarium in Barrow Gurney produces the first UK-grown organic medicinal mushroom products. Tom Baxter gives an insight into growing and selecting the mushrooms and preparing tinctures (with sales if at Abbots Leigh).

What happens to your body when you fall asleep? Local medical herbalists Becs Griffiths and Annwen Jones of the Rhizome Clinic talk about helpful lifestyle practices to promote sleep and the best herbal remedies to induce a peaceful night’s rest.