Come in from the cold. Learn from Tom Coward, Head Gardener at Gravetye Manor in the United Kingdom. Engage in conversation while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and drinks.

Tom Coward, Head Gardener at Gravetye Manor in the United Kingdom, will take us through the work involved in the restoration and development of William Robinson’s historic garden. This garden consists of flower gardens, wild gardens, a kitchen garden, and an orchard. He will also discuss Robinson’s life and his influence on horticulture.

After the lecture, mix and mingle with the speaker during the reception. Then, continue the fun while enjoying an early dinner at the Broad Table Tavern! Members of the Scott Associates receive a 15% discount at the Broad Table Tavern (discount not valid on alcoholic beverages).

More Information and Registration

Event schedule: 

3:00 pm – Lecture 

4:00 pm – Reception with hors d’oeuvres and cash bar

Program Details

• Advance registration is required.
• Limited to 150 people.
• Cancellations after Friday, January 26 cannot be refunded.
• Email us if you have accessibility needs for this program.
• For more information, review our program and event policies or call the Scott Arboretum office at 610-328-8025.

About the Presenter

Tom Coward has worked as a gardener from the age of 15 at various gardens, but it was at Great Dixter (as Fergus Garrett’s assistant) that he believed he really honed his horticultural skills and style. In 2010, Coward joined Gravetye Manor in Sussex, England and set about the restoration of the garden, a project that has been extremely rewarding for him as a gardener.

The historic gardens of Gravetye Manor were established in 1885 by writer and gardener William Robinson. Situated in the Ashdown Forest of Sussex— the basis of A.A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh books— this would become Robinson’s inspiration for the creation of the English natural or wild gardens.