A Botanical Journey: Plants, Potions & Perfume

Join our Head Gardener for a guided walk through the gardens, where you’ll explore the fascinating world of plants that have shaped medicine, inspired folklore and captivated us with their scent for centuries.

Along the way, you’ll uncover surprising stories, hidden connections and botanical secrets that may change the way you look at plants forever.

This unique event also celebrates Quex’s rich botanical heritage, offering insights into the remarkable history of plant discovery and identification, and the role these skills played in shaping our understanding of the natural world.

The journey concludes with a live steam distillation demonstration led by Simon Hardy of Broadstairs Botanicals. Using plant material gathered from the garden itself, Simon will show you how aromatic waters (hydrosols) are produced through the traditional process of steam distillation.

Before you leave, you will either create a bottle of distilled botanical water to take home or choose from the Broadstairs Botanicals range. Perfect for lightly scenting a room, refreshing linens, spritzing a yoga mat or simply enjoying the essence of the garden long after your visit.

Everything you experience, from the plants you encounter to the distilled water you take home, comes from the garden itself – made in the garden, from the garden. We will even use the water drawn from our historic well.

What’s included in your ticket:

• A guided garden tour with Head Gardener Sue Harris
• Discover the fascinating connections between plants, perfume, medicine and folklore
• Uncover Quex Garden’s place in botanical history and its links to Thomas Johnson, often known as the father of British botany
• Learn how botanists identify and record plant species
• Enjoy a live steam distillation demonstration with Broadstairs Botanicals
• Take home your own 150ml bottle of hydrosol or choose an alternative botanical product

All materials are included. Guests can also purchase a handmade ceramic atomiser from Pottery in the Yard for a £1 charity donation.

Perfect for gardeners, history lovers, plant enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique and memorable garden experience.