What is the Larmer Tree Project?

We're a registered charity that uses the creative arts and the natural world to enrich education and support wellbeing. Based at the historic Larmer Tree Gardens on the Dorset/Wiltshire border, we bring primary school children and communities together through drama, poetry, music, art, and performance. This project is a living and evolving example of how the arts aren’t just to entertain but have the ability to empower.

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Where did the idea come from?

The Larmer Tree Project grew from Claire and Alice's shared passion for both community and the arts. Walking through the Larmer Tree Gardens in the reflective days after Covid, they discovered that its original purpose, to entertain and educate the public, aligned perfectly with their own vision: to enable free access to the creative arts.  And so the Larmer Tree Project began.

 

Who do you work with?

We work primarily with KS2 children from local primary schools, offering a fully funded creative arts programme. This includes an immersive day at the gardens, a follow-up session back at school, and a Pageant performance, all at no cost to schools or families.

 

What does a school day look like?

Children rotate through three hands-on workshops: Poetry in the Gardens (exploring a trail of 38 poems, from Shakespeare to Lemn Sissay, through movement and storytelling), Art in the Indian Room (painting and drawing inspired by nature and poetry), and Music or Dance Outdoors (percussion, song, and choreography in the open air). The day is led by professional artists in each field.

 

What is the Pageant?

The Pageant is our final event. A promenade performance where all participating schools come together at the gardens to perform alongside one another. It happens twice a year and celebrates everything the children have created and discovered throughout the programme.

 

Is it really free for schools?

Yes. We're committed to removing barriers so that every child, regardless of background, can access high-quality arts experiences in nature. The entire programme- the school day, the follow-up session, and the Pageant- is provided free of charge.

 

Where are you based?

We are rooted in Larmer Tree Gardens, Tollard Royal, on the Dorset/Wiltshire border, within the Cranborne Chase National Landscape. One of the most beautiful and historically rich landscapes in southern England.This is our founding venue. 

 

What direction is the project moving in?

We're growing! Our ambition is to reach more schools, deepen our community work, and expand our programme so that the transformative power of creativity in nature is available to as many young people as possible. We believe every child deserves to find their voice and we're committed to making that happen.

 

How can I support the Larmer Tree Project?

You can donate, spread the word, or get in touch to explore other ways of getting involved. Every contribution helps us keep the programme free and reach more children. Visit our Support Us page or email info@larmertreeproject.org.