Diary of a Keen Gardener: Mary Keen in conversation with Arthur Parkinson

Tuesday 29th September 2026

Join us at Gravetye Manor for a very special event with acclaimed garden writer and designer Mary Keen, in conversation with gardener, writer and broadcaster Arthur Parkinson.

One of Britain’s most respected gardening voices, Mary Keen has spent decades shaping and influencing the world of horticulture through her work as a designer, journalist and author. Over her long career, she has created some of the finest gardens in England. But rather than tell the story of those paradises, in her latest book Diary of a Keen Gardener, Mary turns her attention closer to home, offering a deeply personal and beautifully observed account of everyday life in the garden, inspired by the rhythms of her own back garden and nearby allotment.

Joining Mary is Arthur Parkinson, whose romantic and naturalistic style of gardening has earned him a devoted following. Known for his writing, broadcasting and deeply personal approach to horticulture, Arthur brings warmth, humour and insight to conversations around gardens, flowers and the people behind them. Together, they will explore Mary's gardening philosophy, and what she continues to learn about plants, ecology and life.

Guests are invited to arrive at 10.30am for tea and coffee, before the talk begins at 11.00am. A three-course lunch will follow at midday, served at shared tables in our glass-fronted Michelin starred dining room. Following the lunch there will also be the opportunity to take a short, guided tour of the gardens with Gravetye’s Head Gardener Tom Coward.

£165.00 per person, inclusive of tea/coffee on arrival, plus a three-course lunch and wine in our glass-fronted restaurant. Guests will also receive a signed copy of Diary of a Keen Gardener to take home.