Talks

Researching and writing about gardening is such a privilege – I love nothing more than visiting gardens, talking to owners and gardeners and delving into the endlessly fascinating subject of garden history.  However, a book in a particular format can only cover so much ground and as a writer (a rather solitary occupation) it’s always lovely to connect with audiences and explore the material in more depth. All talks run to an hour, but can be tailored down if required.

I’ve presented my talks to audiences in Somerset, and over the border in Wiltshire and Dorset, and had great feedback, so if you would like to book me to come and talk to your gardening club please do get in touch with me via my contact form.

Talk 1: Somerset: A County of Glorious Gardens

An exploration of why Somerset is such a conducive location to be a gardener, plus an armchair tour of some of the exhilarating variety of styles of garden that can be found in the county – from cottage gardens to cutting edge creations. Featuring stunning images by Clive Boursnell (the photographer on Secret Gardens of Somerset).

Talk 2: Somerset Gardens & the Genius of the Place

A look at Somerset’s unique and diverse landscapes and how some of the county’s most beautiful gardens exploit their settings to create their own beguiling ‘sense of place’. A talk that is as much about people as it is gardens and this being Somerset, sometimes that sense of place is not at all what you might expect! With images by Clive Boursnell.

Talk 3: The Wardian Case & Other Bright Ideas that Changed Gardening

A talk exploring some of the innovations and ideas that have transformed our gardens over the centuries and which still influence the way we garden  today. This talk is inspired by my book The Remarkable Case of Dr Ward & other Amazing Gardening Innovations. You’ll never look at a pair of secateurs in the same way again!

Talk 4: Meetings with Remarkable Roses (NEW for 2026!)

Roses are the world’s favourite flower but that hasn’t always been the case.  Join me to discover why gardeners fell in love with roses and the fascinating story behind some of the varieties we grow today. As well as meeting some beautiful and eminently garden-worthy roses, we’ll encounter some of the breeders who have shaped the modern rose and visit some iconic rose gardens.

Some audience feedback

“I loved the talk. Abigail spoke really fluently, was engaging and introduced history and background to well known gardens as well as some secret gems I’d never heard of. Particularly good as many of us haven’t been able to visit gardens for a long time. Dying to know what the other 8 gardens are! Made me feel in the mood to do a garden tour of them all 🙂 if only I had the time.”‘One of the best talks we have had’.

‘That was genuinely perfect – thank you so much!’

‘Abigail has been a delight to work with, responding promptly to questions and queries.  Abigail has done three talks for us, two on-line and one in person, and in each case the talks have been excellent, with great illustrations.  She has a lovely style of presentation which is very clear, easy to listen to, and enjoy.  We have had good feedback from those attending after each of the talks so would highly recommend.’ South-West Heritage Trust

‘One of the best talks we have ever had. An excellent presentation. Very well researched’ Sampford Brett Gardening Club

“Thank you for your talk. It was informative, beautifully presented and very well received. I made a note of all the gardens and look forward to visiting them.”

‘Thank you for giving us such an interesting and entertaining talk yesterday evening. I have had lots of positive feedback from members today and two of our members said that it was the best talk that they had heard!’ Martock & District Gardening Club

‘Just to thank you for your splendid talk on Tuesday. You may have noticed how animated we became – always vindication of the quality of the speaker’s presentation!’ Milbourne Port Gardening Club