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Historical Plants Workshop

  • Butser Ancient Farm Chalton Lane Hampshire, PO8 0BG United Kingdom (map)

Have you ever wondered which plants the Romans introduced to the UK?

Did you know there’s a plant that will give a yellow dye from its flowers, but a red dye from its roots?

What common flower is good for a bilious attack?

Discover the historic use of plants in the Butser Ancient Farm Gardens, and create your own comfrey oil. Explore how plants through time have been used for food, flavourings, dye, medical treatments, strewing, and making protection amulets. Create comfrey oil to take home, and tour the gardens with experienced tutor Sally Murdoch. Investigate recipes from Saxon Leechbooks and Tudor Herbals of Culpeper and Gerard.

Please note the tutor is not a medical herbalist, the content of this workshop is not intended to be used for medical treatments.

About the workshop(EDIT)

  • Running twice, 10am-12:30pm, and 1:15pm-3:45pm

  • Create a comfrey oil

  • Have a guided tour of the gardens, learning about historic uses of plants

  • Look at past recipes from Saxon Leechbooks

  • Set in the unique surroundings of Butser Ancient Farm’s historic buildings

Included in your ticket

Entrance to the farm, two and a half hours tuition and expertise, and all the materials and tools necessary will be provided for the workshop.

workshop info

Please wear sensible clothing and footwear for this workshop. Lunch is not included, although sandwiches (subject to availability), hot and cold drinks, and snacks are sold in our gift shop. You’re also welcome to bring a picnic if you prefer!

This workshop is intended for adults, but suitable for ages 16+. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Accompanying adults must also buy a ticket for the workshop.


Later Event: July 11
Full Moon Flow