Secrets of Capel Manor, Steve Dowbiggin March's Zoom meeting

 Our speaker last month, Steve Dowbiggin (OBE), presented an absolutely stunning, entertaining and amusing talk, as he revealed many of the Manor’s secrets and we all like to know a secret or two. Steve is the longest serving college principle in the country with 33 years service, his accomplishments and commitment were recognised in 2007 when he was awarded an OBE. Steve’s extensive knowledge of the Manor is second to none, he explained the history of the Manor, which goes back to the 13th Century and brought us to the present time. 

It was interesting to hear how Steve used his various contacts from inside and outside the gardening world to help raise money for different restoration projects at Capel Manor. Steve told us wonderful and funny stories about the Queen,  Princess Ann and the late Queen Mother who at 101 opened a garden planted by students to celebrate her Centenary. It was equally interesting to hear about Margaret Thatcher’s visit to the Manor and Steve’s role in that visit, and how Capel Manor retained the title of the National Gardening Centre.    

 

The gardens are just one aspect of Capel Manor, the other is the College which Steve was most involved with. The college started with around 15 students, today it is London’s leading gardening and environmental college with 6 campuses across London. In addition there is also the Zoo, which offers educational talks on the animals which live there.    

Capel Manor has been a favourite of mine for many years, with over 60 different gardens and landscapes to explore I found something new on every visit.  Capel Manor was the first to have a Faith Garden giving a space where different religions can visit. Following Steve Dowbiggin’s talk I am keen to return and see what is new at Capel and enjoy the gardens even more with the benefit of Steve’s wonderful talk.  Thank you Steve for a really great evening.