Party

One of the aims of the Walled Garden is to provide a space that brings people together—whether from the local community, similar projects, or the worlds of agriculture, permaculture, rewilding, and all related endeavors. This is all intended as a means of inspiration, education, and connection.

It felt like the right time, in July 2024, to try hosting our first summer event in the garden—an event that could potentially attract hundreds of people, sparking conversations, laughter, playtime, music, and camping. If successful, it could serve as the blueprint for a regular annual gathering.

Invitations were sent out slightly at the last minute, and it took some time to get the garden “ready,” with particular focus on the cattle sheds, which required a massive clear-out and cleaning. This would be the primary space where most of the gathering would take place. Nevertheless, locations around the Walled Garden were also highlighted—places to sit in the forest garden, the polytunnel area, the rough area to the southeast, plus a bell tent set up for children to enjoy. Camping was designated on the terrace to the south of the garden. A music playlist was curated, food ingredients were prepared, bunting was hung, and two video projectors added a multimedia element alongside an audio PA system.

Guests began arriving in the early afternoon on Saturday, 13th July. Barbecues were lit, and before long, the place was teeming with people of all ages and backgrounds. The total attendance was hard to estimate, as some guests stayed for the afternoon or early evening, while others arrived later at night—when warm fires were accompanied by the wonderful singing of local folk music hero Christine Kydd.

Another highlight was on-site cooking with produce grown in the garden. A talk about the garden also took place, followed by a short tour. By the end of the event, it was estimated that around 150 people had attended—not bad considering the relatively short time available for sending invitations. The festivities continued the following morning with a long breakfast for those who had camped overnight. The sun made a welcome appearance after largely hiding behind an overcast sky the previous day.

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with a key highlight of the event being the inspiring conversations and connections that emerged around ecological and agricultural themes. It became clear that this must indeed become a regular event.