Our food choices - what we buy, what we grow and how we grow it - are one of the most powerful ways in which we affect the world we live in. During the course of the day, we will look for ways to use that power positively and sustainably, minimising our eco-footprint and creating a greener Kitchen Garden into the bargain.

The morning will begin by focusing on some of the main issues – how and where we shop, carbon emissions, resource use, and the benefits (and impacts) of growing our own. We will audit our shopping and examine our gardening methods to identify the most and least sustainable. We will start to look at how creating a Green Kitchen Garden can help us minimize our eco-footprint and maximise our sustainability. This will include energy use, ways to recycle and reuse, making compost, minimising water consumption and ethical sourcing. 

You will learn how soil care, nutrient cycling and organic practices can make the difference in creating a truly green plot. We will also look at the idea of a low carbon diet, and the importance of what we choose to grow.

The River Cottage Kitchen Team will then prepare a delicious seasonal lunch using ingredients from the Kitchen Garden.

The afternoon will begin with a tour of River Cottage HQ, including the Kitchen Garden, to see some of the ways in which we are trying to make the farm truly sustainable. You will see how we are tackling the big issues head on, and how some of the ideas from the morning are being put into place, and you will have the chance to let us know where you think we can improve. We will also see the importance of keeping a balance with wildlife in the Kitchen Garden, from attracting beneficial animals to dealing with pests in a sustainable way.

A visit to the Climate Change Garden will illustrate how we may soon be able to add previously ‘foreign’ food (such as olives and peaches) to the Kitchen Garden - without all those atmosphere-bashing food miles – and the dramatic impact this could have on our carbon footprint.

So, whether you are looking to start a green allotment or take your existing plot to the next level and give yourself a low carbon diet into the bargain, come and join Caroline, Mark and the River Cottage Team for a fascinating and inspirational day.

Please note that Hugh does not attend this event

Location: This course is run from River Cottage H.Q on the Dorset/Devon borders. Full address details of H.Q. will be provided once you have booked.

Wine/drink: We are a licensed venue. We also have a Bring Your Own policy and we do not charge corkage. We have a wide selection of the finest organic wines. We will be serving Elderflower cordial and iced water from our own well.

Accommodation: If you need local accommodation, click here for a list of hotels and bed & breakfasts, recommended to us by our customers. We don’t have camping facilities ourselves, but for information on local campsites and self catering accommodation, call the Lyme Regis Tourist Information Office on 01297 442 138. They will be very happy to help.

Age: We would advise that this course is only really suitable for 12yrs of age and upwards. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. We put these guidelines for the safety, comfort and enjoyment of all our guests.

Time: 10am-5pm