How did the Snowdrop get it's strength to grow and flower in winter? What happened to the boy who dressed in yellow and green with the lovely singing voice? Join us fireside to travel through a year of nature as you hear old stories about familiar flowers. End with making scented Saxon Amulet Beads with ingredients you have heard about.
The Saxons would make beads from natural materials to use as amulets for protection. The beads we are making are made from flowers, spices, flower waters and oils and tree resins that will preserve the scent and 'glue' it all together.
There will be a small booklet of some of the stories as well as a kit for making additional Beads at home for those who wish to purchase either/both.
Choose either a morning OR afternoon session and spend the rest of your day enjoying our unique site - included in your ticket price.
About the workshop
Running twice, 10am-12:30pm, and 1:15pm-3:45pm
Create your own Pomander Beads to take away
Hear ancient tales in the atmospheric setting of a recreated Saxon hall
Explore the unique surroundings of Butser Ancient Farm’s historic buildings
Sally Murdoch spent 4 years teaching Tudor skills, including the Apothecary, to school groups at the Weald and Downland Living Museum before taking ‘hands-on’ Tudor history into local schools. She was the resident Apothecary at Wymering Manor and designed and helped to plant their Physic garden. She has also published ‘Tudor Recipes for the Modern Cook’ to great reception.
For the last 25 years she has attended regular courses with the historical/medical herbalist Christina Stapeley, this year being no exception! She loves to work in her own garden, which is planted up with Lady’s Bedstraw and Balm of Gilead, Sneezewort and Myrtle.
Included in your ticket
Entrance to the farm, two and a half hours tuition and expertise, and all the materials and tools necessary will be provided for the workshop.
Workshop Info
Please wear sensible clothing and footwear for this workshop. Lunch is not included, although sandwiches (subject to availability), hot and cold drinks, and snacks are sold in our gift shop. You’re also welcome to bring a picnic if you prefer!
This workshop is intended for adults, but suitable for ages 16+