A brand-new literary event celebrating stories rooted in nature, sustainability and local life. Join six inspiring authors for engaging talks and book signings (perfect for Christmas gifts!).
Tickets: £9 per talk.
Speakers include:
John Wright
Tony Kirkham
Mark Carwardine
Jen Bell & Karen Heaney
Tim Laycock
John Wright
Author of the Forager’s Handbook: A Forager’s Journey through the British Countryside
A Forager’s Journey through the British Countryside
Join Britain’s leading foraging expert for a journey into the wild larder of the British countryside. Known for his work with River Cottage and thousands of foraging walks, John Wright reveals the secrets of wild food, fungi, edible plants and hidden treasures underfoot. With warmth and wit, he’ll inspire you to see the natural world – and your local hedgerow – in a whole new way.
Mark Carwardine
Author of Last Chance to See: Wildlife Adventures with Douglas Adams, Stephen Fry and Other Animals!
Zoologist, conservationist, broadcaster and bestselling author Mark Carwardine shares the hilarious and moving story of Last Chance to See — the 20-year project he undertook with the late Douglas Adams and, later, Stephen Fry. From rare animals to wild encounters (including a certain infamous kakapo), Mark reflects on the importance of conservation, storytelling, and laughter in the face of extinction.
Tony Kirkham
Author of Arboretum and Remarkable Trees: The Secret Life of Trees
Former Head of Arboretum at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Tony Kirkham brings decades of expertise in trees and woodland to this insightful session. With over 14,000 trees under his former care and appearances on Channel 5’s The Secret Life of Trees, Tony shares stories from a life among the leaves – including a visit to Symondsbury’s very own Holloways. A must for garden lovers, tree enthusiasts and nature-curious minds.
Jeni Bell & Karen Heaney
Authors of 111 Places In Dorset That You Shouldn’t Miss: Hidden Gems Of Dorset
Discover the hidden charm of Dorset through the eyes of authors Jeni Bell and Karen Heaney. With no motorways, cities, or major industries, Dorset’s slower pace, wild beauty, and creative spirit make it quietly extraordinary. Jeni and Karen will share some of their favourite off-the-beaten-path places, with stories from their bestselling guide to the county’s most surprising and delightful corners.
Tim Laycock
Author of Dorset Folk Tales and Dorset Folk Tales for Children: Once Upon a Dorset: Tales, Tunes & Local Legends
Storyteller, folk singer and Dorset native Tim Laycock brings local legends and characters to life in this lively session. With a lifetime steeped in oral history and performance – including time as Artistic Director of the New Hardy Players – Tim shares tales of old Dorset, from mischievous spirits to village lore, woven with music, memories and humour.