It’s hard to condense the long and passioned affair that led to Potager Garden being what it is today. Once a market garden in the 1950’s, the site closed down in 1980 only to be completely consumed by nature. Thick with the stubborn, thorny arms of brambles and a wild jungle of conifers, fruit trees and self-sown willows, it was impossible to take more than a few steps before becoming entangled in the burgeoning vegetation.
That was until Dan Thomas and Peter Skerrett came along in August 1999. Undertaking the overwhelming task of taming the knotted and swollen four and half acres of land, they signed the deeds in 2000 and set to work. Deliberate, considered and consistently steady in their approach, Dan and Peter took years to cut back, replant and remove plants and trees from the site, repurposing old building materials and creating a functioning space for work and regrowth.
Fast forward to now and the grounds are unrecognisable. With a dedicated team, including gardening wizards Mark and Saffa and Head Chef Daisy Hillier, Potager Garden is a space for learning, socialising and, of course, eating finely crafted dishes using produce from the gardens. Welcoming all into their fold, you can turn up solo or gather your friends and experience the vibrant atmosphere and tranquillity that abounds.
Updating their calendar throughout the year, Potager Garden plays host to a number of events and workshops. From themed foodie nights to foraging walks, and from writing courses to wool weaving, the options are endlessly inspiring for those looking to try something a little different. Allowing you to take time in nature and challenge your creativity, workshops can be enjoyed as one-off experiences to add an exciting element to your holiday in Cornwall.
Of course, no trip to Potager Garden would then be complete without popping into the café. Tucked away amidst the garden’s plum trees in a converted greenhouse, the café serves an enticing array of vegetarian breakfast, homemade cakes and wholesome lunches. Open from 10am to 5pm Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays, make sure you treat yourself to something tasty whilst celebrating the exceptional hard work that has made this place so special.
Potager Garden High Cross, Constantine, Falmouth TR11 5RF | www.potagergarden.org | 01326 341258
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