Dates for your Diary
Mark your calendars! Check out our upcoming events and meetings for the Horticultural Society of Preston, Elmstone, & Stourmouth.
Venue: Preston Village Hall, Mill Lane, Preston, Kent, CT3
Lecture Start Time: 7.30pm
Don't miss out on our exciting opportunities to learn, connect, and grow.
2025
23rd July
Gardening The World
Lecture by Sarah Nathaniel
Join us for an inspiring talk by Sarah Nathaniel as she explores how gardens can shape communities, restore ecosystems, and connect us across borders. Drawing on global projects and local action, Gardening the World invites us to see planting as both a personal and political act.
27th August
Guided Orchard Walk & Talk
by Will Jarvis
Take a stroll through the orchard with local expert Will Jarvis, who will share insights into heritage fruit varieties, orchard care, and the rich history of these green spaces. A relaxed, informative walk for curious minds and nature lovers alike!
20th September
Open Annual Autumn Show & Social Lunch
Celebrate the season at our much-loved Autumn Show, open to all! From homegrown produce to homemade bakes, enjoy a vibrant display of local talent, followed by a hearty social lunch with friends old and new. A true highlight of the gardening year!
Download your Show Schedule (which includes the Show Entry Form - submission deadline no later than 17th Sep) here: Autumn Show Schedule
24th September
Villas of the Italian Lakes
Lecture by Kevin Tooher
Join Kevin Tooher, horticultural enthusiast and Lecturer in Landscape and Architecture at Hadlow College, for a captivating journey through the elegant villas of the Italian Lakes. Explore how architecture, planting, and setting come together in these timeless landscapes of beauty and inspiration.
22nd October
Wild Flowers of Kent​
Lecture by Sue Buckingham
(& Plant & Seed Exchange)
Discover the rich and varied flora of our county with Sue Buckingham, local botanist and wildflower expert. From chalk downs to woodland edges, Sue will guide us through Kent’s natural treasures. The evening also includes a Plant & Seed Exchange—bring along your spare seeds or plants to swap and share!
26th November
Floral Displays by Mig Kimpton (plus Raffle)
Enjoy an entertaining and inspiring evening with award-winning floral designer Mig Kimpton, who brings his signature flair and creativity to the stage. With twelve prestigious medals from the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Mig’s demonstrations are a true masterclass in floral artistry. Don’t miss the raffle for a chance to win one of his stunning creations!
2026
28th January
Annual Dinner
Join us on Wednesday 28th January 2026 for our much-anticipated Annual Dinner, a wonderful evening of good food, great company, and shared celebration of all things green and growing. A perfect way to toast another fruitful year in the garden and beyond!
25th February
Snowdrops & Hellebores in the Garden - Lecture by Tim Ingram
(plus Seed Exchange!)
Join Tim Ingram, garden expert and plantsman, for an insightful talk on the beauty and cultivation of snowdrops and hellebores in the garden. Learn tips and tricks for growing these stunning winter and spring blooms. The session also includes a Seed Exchange, so bring along your spare seeds to swap with fellow gardeners!
25th March
Members Spring Show & Raffle
Celebrate the arrival of spring with our Members Spring Show on 25th March 2026! From vibrant flowers to homegrown produce, come and admire the stunning displays created by our talented members. Don’t forget to join in the excitement of the raffle for a chance to win some fantastic prizes!
22nd April
Annual General Meeting
Join us for the Annual General Meeting on 22nd April 2026 as we reflect on the year’s achievements, discuss future plans, and elect new committee members. It’s an important occasion for all members to get involved, share ideas, and help shape the future of our society.
THE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
PRESTON, ELMSTONE, & STOURMOUTH
What's on, what we offer, and what we do!
GARDEN VISITS
Special Guided Tours
SOCIAL EVENTS
Mix and Mingle
MONTHLY MEETUPS
Learn Something New
Show Time