Wednesday, 6 January 2027 - Wednesday, 3 March 2027
Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to expand your skills, join our relaxed and engaging 8 week course to grow your gardening knowledge.
Details
Date: Wednesdays from 6th January 2027 to 3rd March 2027 ( 8 sessions, half term Weds 17th Feb - no session)
Time: 10am -2pm (with a break for lunch and tea breaks - refreshments provided, bring your own lunch)
Price: £325
Group size: max. 14 people
Suitability: Beginners, improvers, or those who want to refresh their knowledge
Tutor: Kevin Tooher
Course Overview
Set within our beautiful 12-acre gardens, this theory-based course covers a wide range of horticultural topics alongside practical demonstrations. Sessions are primarily held in our newly renovated Cartshed—a light, airy, and comfortable learning space located right next to our Walled Garden. Each week, you'll venture into the grounds to observe and identify Godinton's diverse plant collection, culminating in a complimentary guided tour of RHS Wisley in the final week (travel not included).
Topics covered:
- Plant names and identification
- Life cycles
- Propagation
- Soil and composts
- Sustainability
- Herbaceous perennials, shrubs and trees
- Pests and diseases
- Garden history and design
- Roses
- Pruning and winter in the garden
- Gardeners' Question Time
- FREE entry and guided tour of RHS Wisley
Tutor
Your tutor, Kevin Tooher, is an experienced RHS teacher, former RHS Trials Judge, and seasoned garden tour leader with a lifelong passion for horticulture. Kevin delivers every session with warm enthusiasm, sharing an incredible depth of knowledge and expertise that will benefit gardeners of all levels.
BOOK HERE
Gallery
FAQ
Weather permitting, there will be walks in the gardens and some outdoor demonstrations. Given the time of year, please wear warm clothing, a waterproof coat and suitable outdoor footwear.
The house and gardens are closed to the general public at this time of year so there is nowhere onsite to buy food. Please bring lunch with you - we have a fridge and small kitchen area with plates and crockery you can use. We will also provide tea and coffee throughout the day. If you have any allergies, please notify us beforehand.
If you have any concerns or requirements about accessing our courses, please contact us prior to booking on 01233 643854 or email education@godintonhouse.co.uk and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Notice of cancellation must be received 4 weeks before the commencement of the course to qualify for a refund.
Notice of cancellation less than 4 weeks prior to the commencement of the course will only be considered for a refund in exceptional circumstances and at our discretion.
Godinton House Preservation Trust CIO reserves the right to cancel courses in unforseen circumstances and in this case we will refund course fees.
The course is being held at Godinton House and Gardens, Godinton Lane, Ashford, Kent TN23 3BP.
The main gate will be closed because we will be closed to the general public at this time. You will need to use the coach/delivery entrance, further along Godinton Lane from the main gate.
Come up the drive and follow the signs to the main car park. From here, there will be signs to the Cartshed, where the sessions will be held and there will be a member of staff on hand to direct you.