Welcome to Cheltenham Gardens for Nature

Cheltenham Gardens for Nature is a free community day celebrating the incredible difference gardens can make for nature.

Whether you have a large garden, a patio, a balcony or just a few pots outside your front door, you'll discover practical ideas to help nature thrive where you live.

Throughout the day you can explore inspiring talks, informal demonstrations, family activities and our One Thing for Nature community exhibition. It's an opportunity to meet local experts, ask questions, pick up practical tips and leave with ideas you can put into practice at home.

Talks at The Greenhouse

Our talks are free to attend, but places are limited, so we recommend booking in advance.

From wildlife-friendly gardening and working with your garden's natural ecology to pollinators, swifts, soil and more, each talk has been designed to be practical, friendly and accessible—whether you're just getting started or already have plenty of gardening experience.

Working With Your Garden's Natural Ecology

Charlotte O'Neill, Ecologist | 10am | 45 minutes + Q&A

Every garden is different. Ecologist Charlotte O'Neill will explain how understanding your garden's soil, existing plants and natural conditions can help you work with nature rather than against it. You'll come away with practical ideas for creating a healthy, resilient garden that supports wildlife and flourishes over time.

Reserve your spot by clicking on the yellow button and choosing this talk from the options

Wild About Plants: A Guided Nature Walk

Rosa Dam, Ecologist & Richard Sillence, Habitat Mapper | 11.15am | Approx. 1–1½ hours

It's surprising how much nature is growing right under our feet. Join us for a relaxed guided walk around St Paul's to discover the wild plants, trees and habitats that make this neighbourhood such an important place for wildlife. Along the way you'll learn how to identify common species and see the area with fresh eyes.

Meet at The Greenhouse at 11.15am.

Reserve your spot by clicking on the yellow button and choosing this walk from the options

How to Garden for Wildlife in Outdoor Spaces Large and Small

Claire Piper | 1pm | 45 minutes + Q&A

Whether you have a large garden, a courtyard or just a few pots, creating a nature and wildlife-friendly space is easier than you might think. Claire will give us some easy tips for gardening for nature, from providing food, water and shelter to creating habitats that help birds, bees, butterflies and other wildlife thrive.

Reserve your spot by clicking on the yellow button and choosing this talk from the options

More than just talks

Your talk is just one part of the day.

While you're here, why not:

🌿 Visit the Pop-up Nature Garden

🦋 Meet local nature organisations

🌱 Watch practical demonstrations

📸 Explore the One Thing for Nature exhibition

☕ Enjoy refreshments at the School House Café

The wider event is free and open throughout the day, so you're welcome to stay, explore and make a day of it.

Read more about the other activities on the day