Forest Garden Shovelstrode Launches

Forest Garden Shovelstrode held its official opening on Thursday 8th September 2011. The East Grinstead Mayor and Mayoress officiated at the opening ceremony with the release of 6 doves to mark the occasion. During the day various demonstrations took place including green wood working, hurdle making, willow basketry and bee keeping.

Forest Garden Shovelstrode, based in the High Weald of Sussex near Forest Row, was awarded £35,000 of RDPE (Rural Development Programme for England) funding towards the setting up of the eco tourism project which opened in Spring 2011. It offers a wide range of courses in woodland crafts and people will be able to come and learn the principles of permaculture and self sufficiency as demonstrated in a forest garden.

Yurt ‘glamping’ is available in 2 secluded yurts set in a beautiful remnant of ancient woodland where individuals, couples or small families can enjoy a back-to-nature experience in a tranquil setting.

Courses such as an introduction to beekeeping, vegetable gardening, willow basketry, green wood working and hurdle making have been running at Forest Garden since May 2011 and a range of holistic treatments including massage, reflexology, and sound therapy will be available in 2012.

Forest Garden is open to people of all ages and will be open for corporate days and bespoke team building workshops. A gift voucher scheme allows people to purchase a course or yurt stay in advance to give away as a Christmas, birthday or wedding present.

For more information, please visit their website at www.forestgarden.info