The history and natural history of British gardens.  An introduction to gardens of the British Isles, the gardeners their plants and colourful wildlife.

Some of the best gardens in the world are to be found in the British Isles, this course will study garden development in Britain from its earliest beginnings associated with Roman villas to the landscape gardens of the country estates of the rich and famous to modern family back garden. Topics will also include the history of plant introductions and the many brave plant hunters who searched the globe for new plants to bring back to Britain. Nowadays gardeners are critical places for wildlife with many gardeners keen to attract more birds, bees and butterflies to their garden, the course will suggest simple ways to design and manage garden to enhance the wildlife.