Whether you are a community group, allotment neighbours or gardening interest group, sign up for a free tour of the RHS Lindley Library.

Dates: Tuesdays throughout the year
Times: 11am–12noon or 2pm–3pm
Price: Free to attend

Now taking bookings from November
Drop us an email to book >

Discover gardens through time in this new course, led by garden historian Francesca Murray, with the collections of the RHS Lindley Library.
Join us for all three sessions in this course, or sign up for a single session ticket.

Week 1 – 19th Century Picturesque and the Victorians
Week 2 – Edwardian Gardens and World War One
Week 3 – 20th Century Modernism and Media

Date: Monday 11/18/25 November 2024
Time: 11am–1pm
 

Join the library as we explore the wonderful world of ferns, and how this prehistoric plant became a Victorian obsession.

Our informal talks offer a 15 minute introduction to the treasures of our Library collection to liven up a lunch break. No need to book, just drop in.

Explore the connections between fungi, folklore and superstition through history, and around the world.

From ‘deadly dapperlings’ to ‘weeping widows’, discover the fascinating and fantastical world of mushrooms with Sandra Lawrence, author of The Magic of Mushrooms: Fungi in folklore, supersitition and traditional medicine.

Uncover the dangers of approaching a fairy ring, why Charles Darwin’s sister detested stinkhorn and how one fungus can control the mind of ants.

There will be plenty of time to ask questions, plus you can join us for a drink after the conversation and explore the RHS Lindley Library’s collection of gardening books.

The RHS Lindley Library is open Tuesday to Friday, 10am – 4pm. The show and tell begins at 1.15pm. Come early to browse our collection of modern titles and changing display. RHS membership not required.

Unveil the art of perfumery with a practical workshop and tour of the RHS Lindley Library collections.

Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious beginner, awaken your senses and ignite your creativity as you take inspiration from natural botanical fragrances to create Eau de Cologne.

From the zesty freshness of citrus fruits to the aromatic allure of herbs and spices, learn how to balance, blend and harmonise a treasure trove of natural essential oils to create a fragrance that truly resonates with your unique style and personality.

All materials are provided. Tickets are required for the event with the ticket cost supporting the RHS Lindley Library.

Join author of Horti Curious, Ann Treneman, for a night of gardener’s miscelleny as we delve into the weird and wonderful world of plants.

Inspired by Ann’s book and the RHS Lindley Library collections, join us for an evening celebrating the curious side of horticulture.

Explore unusual garden fashions, suspicious herbal treatments and horticulture’s eccentric personalities, as we ask questions like...

• Why should a virgin avoid parsley?
• How did a tulip bulb become as expensive as a house?
• Who was the woman plant-hunter who slept on a volcano?
• And, should I be offended if someone offers me a daffodil?

Following the conversation there will be plenty of time to ask questions, plus a reception with botanically inspired drinks.

Copies of Horti Curious will be available to buy and have signed by the author, and there will be time to explore the RHS Lindley Library’s collection of gardening books.

Tickets are required for the event with the ticket cost supporting the RHS Lindley Library.

Peek between the pages of the Library collection and discover the botanical marginalia

The RHS Lindley Library is open Tuesday to Friday, 10am – 4pm. The show and tell begins at 1.15pm. Come early to browse our collection of modern titles and changing display. RHS membership not required.