Horticultural Therapy in the Outer Estate

Gardening programmes for those experiencing health-related problems, designed to improve mental and physical wellbeing.

Run by our horticultural therapists, 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.

JOIN THE PROGRAMME

Horticultural Therapist Julia standing amongst plants in polytunnel

What is Horticultural Therapy?

The benefits of gardening for physical health are well known, but did you know that gardening is also beneficial for people struggling with their mental health?

Recent work has shown that bugs in the soil boost the brain’s happy hormone, serotonin, which leads to improved mood. The same bugs reduce inflammation and can also help with conditions such as diabetes and asthma. Life really is better with muddy fingernails!

Gardening can also be a great way to coax yourself outside and be sociable with like-minded others.

Horticultural Therapy participants

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 green woodworking, 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.

These sessions are free for those who aren't in paid work or education and are aged 16 and over.

When are the sessions?
Mondays, 10am – 2pm.

How do I join?
Please complete this form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

About these sessions:
Designed specifically for veterans or those soon to be leaving the armed forces, our Space to Grow sessions offer a balance of practical horticultural skills and support in managing mental health and wellbeing.

These sessions are supported by the Veterans’ Foundation, and are in partnership with the Defence Gardens Scheme.

Who are they for?
These sessions are free for veterans or anyone soon to be leaving the armed forces, aged 16 and over.

When are the sessions?
Wednesdays, 10am – 1pm.

Our autumn programme runs on the following dates:

27 September
4, 11, 18, 25 October
1, 8, 15 November

We’ll also be running an Open Day on 6 September 2023.

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

If you would like to join our horticultural therapy programme or find out more information, please complete the form below and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.