With properties opening their doors to the public, and traditional crafts on display all over the area, September is the ideal month to experience the countryside like never before
Discover a Whole New World
Honeywood Museum
If you’ve ever walked down Wilmerhatch Lane in Epsom, chances are you’ve pondered what lies at the end of Woodcote Park’s private drive. The same may hold true for properties such as Waverley Abbey House in Farnham, Honeywood Museum in Carshalton or the sustainable WWF-UK HQ in Woking.
Well, wonder no more: September offers the perfect opportunity to find out, with the return of the nationwide Heritage Open Days festival.
As the name would suggest, several properties, including those already mentioned, will be opening their doors to the public – mostly for free – with a range of family-friendly activities such as talks, live music and crafts, also taking place.
This year, as well as the chance to explore 17th-century Woodcote Park, particular Surrey highlights include access to the Plant Passion flower fields of dahlias and sunflowers in East Clandon; and, if you’re interested in local social history, don’t miss the exhibition of Great War records and artefacts at the Leatherhead Institute.
The final cut
Picasa
For Mark Allery (above), mowing the lawn is much more than an afternoon chore, it’s a time-old practice and work of art.
“When people think of scything, the first image that springs to mind, perhaps, is a shirtless Aiden Turner brandishing a blade in Poldark. But this skill isn’t limited to the 18th century – in fact, it’s been enjoying a resurgence in recent years, as people look to maintain small areas of lawn, wildflower patches and steep inaccessible banks without disrupting nature or the environment.
“Scything is a much quieter, less invasive and more sustainable method of land management that anyone can learn," says Mark. "There is a rhythm to the work which is very attractive – possibly even slightly addictive. Unlike walking behind a lawnmower or wielding a strimmer, using a scythe creates a connection between you and your surroundings. You become aware of the gentle ‘shusssh’ of the blade slicing through fragrant grass and the sound of nearby songbirds.
"Even after 40 years, scything still gives me an immense sense of satisfaction. I run courses to share the craft and to prove that the scythe is a much better tool than a mower or strimmer – regardless of the size of your plot.”
- Join one of Mark’s courses on September 5 at Bay Pond Educational Nature Reserve, Godstone (surreywildlifetrust.org), and September 7 at the Guildford Environmental Forum’s Rosamund Community Garden (gefweb.org.uk), or visit woodlandantics.wordpress.com to find out more about his work.
Organic September
It’s the debate that is continually taking place, not only for foodies but for health and beauty and fashion fans, too: is organic worth it? On the fence? That’s where Organic September comes in – one month of fairs, free-food tastings and promotional offers to celebrate and raise awareness of the diversity of organic products – be it a piece of fruit, face cream or t-shirt.
It’s also a chance to find out what being organic really means. For example, did you know organic farms support 50% more wildlife than non-organic ones? Not to mention its associated health benefits: research published in the British Journal of Nutrition showed that organic crops are up to 60% higher in key antioxidants than conventionally-grown crops. With that in mind, here are three ways to help you make the switch…
In the kitchen
Swap the supermarket drop-off for the home delivery service offered by The Organic Delivery Company. Simply fill your online basket with organic alternatives of your favourites from juices to breads, dairy, fruits and vegetables and, of course, coffee and chocolate.
In the bathroom
Update your beauty regime with the organic range of creams, masks and scrubs from Guildford-based producer Andrea Hutchins. Each item contains nutrient-rich ingredients such as berry extracts and natural honey to strengthen, soothe and support the skin.
In the living room
Zen out in the comfort of your own home thanks to Clare and Darren Cooper’s organic ‘atmosphere’ mists. The calming and uplifting scents include lavender, rosemary, lime and basil.
Looking for another naturally brilliant piece? Check out our Craft & Country Section
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