Discover the hidden histories of garden flowers with Advolly Richmond 

We are delighted to welcome Advolly Richmond, presenter of BBC Gardeners’ World and garden historian, to open this autumn’s Royston Pike Lecture Series on Wednesday 10 September at 7.30pm at Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre, Manor Road, Walton-on-Thames KT12 2PF. 
 
In her talk based on her book, ‘A Short History of Flowers’,  Advolly will take us on a captivating journey through the stories behind some of our most favourite garden flowers. As a respected historian of plants and gardens, she brings to life the fascinating tales of how flowers got their names, why certain cultivars fall in and out of fashion, and the surprising roles flowers have played in history. 

From the exotic bougainvillea, collected by an 18th century female botanist in disguise, to the humble snowdrop, which once caused a national frenzy, Advolly reveals the rich tapestry of characters, including royalty, scholars, pioneers, and even smugglers, who helped shape the gardens we know today. 

Join us for this botanical adventure and meet Advolly in person as she shares her passion and expertise in what promises to be a truly entertaining evening. 

Tickets are £4. Book early to avoid disappointment, book online: Royston Pike Lectures- A Short History of Flowers. 

Upcoming Lectures in the autumn series: 

• Wednesday 15 October 2025 
  A is for Arsenic: The Poisons of Agatha Christie with Dr Kathryn Harkup. Book for: A is for Arsenic: The Poisons of Agatha Christie. 
   
• Wednesday 12 November 2025 
  The Chatley Heath Semaphore Tower with Caroline Stanford. Book for The Chatley Heath Semaphore Tower.

For more information, visit elmbridge.gov.uk/culture, email arts@elmbridge.gov.uk, or call 01372 474568.