Supper with Charles Dowding

Insights from a no-dig garden in Somerset

Thursday 25th June 2026

We are thrilled to welcome Charles Dowding, renowned for his pioneering no dig approach to gardening, for a special evening and supper at Pythouse Kitchen Garden.

In this informative talk, Charles shares practical insights from his no dig garden in Somerset.

He explains the key principles of successful no dig vegetable growing and describes how to start a productive garden, even where there are difficult perennial weeds and on almost any type of soil. Different starting methods are explored, including the use of cardboard with compost on top, and black plastic with compost underneath — both effective ways to create clean, fertile beds without digging.

A key theme of the evening is compost. Charles explains what we mean by compost in a gardening context, how it differs from fertiliser, and why it is central to the no dig approach. He also discusses how compost feeds soil life rather than plants directly.

Charles will also touch on influences in gardening that are less easily measured but widely explored by growers. These include copper tools, biodynamic preparations, orgone energy, solar dowsing, and other devices designed to capture and work with natural energies.

The talk will conclude with a short Q&A session, before guests enjoy supper. 

DETAILS & BOOKINGS

Date: Thursday 25th June 2026
Location: Pythouse Kitchen Garden 
Timings: 6.30 - 7.30 pm Talk & Q&A / 7.30 pm  - plot-to-plate 2-course supper 
Places: £60 per person inc. wine
Maximum number of people: 64
Bookings close: 1 week before event
Terms & Cancellation: 1 week cancellation notice for a full refund  
Notes: This event will be held on the heated terrace

Why not make a real day of it and stay the night in our wonderful shepherd’s hut?
More details here.