Stalking the Hardy Ash

Photography walkshop led by Peter Coles and the Museum of Walking for London Tree Week

Wed 31 May 2017, 6:15pm

Kentish Town and St Pancras, London

Just over 150 years ago, poet and novelist Thomas Hardy while working as an architect’s technician was in charge of the excavation of the graveyard in Old St Pancras churchyard, arranging for the removal of gravestones so that work could continue on the London & Midland railway. The gravestones were leant up against an ash tree. Over time, the tree roots have enmeshed the gravestones, creating an extraordinary feature.

Starting at Kentish Town station, our route will in places follow London’s hidden River Fleet. This photography walkshop will explore other unusual trees in the vicinity and seek out significant trees that Thomas Hardy himself would have seen. The finale of the walkshop will be encountering the “Hardy Ash” in Old St Pancras Churchyard.

Urban nature writer and photographer, Peter Cole is Visiting Fellow and tutor at Goldsmiths, and a specialist on London’s mulberry trees. He will present this walk with the Museum of Walking. The Ash Project’s Madeleine Hodge will be a special guest.

Details

The walk will start at Kentish Town rail and tube station, and will end at Old St Pancras Churchyard (nearest tube Kings Cross) approximately 2 hours later. It is suitable for adults and families – accompanied children only. Participants to bring their own camera.

Booking

Booking is essential as numbers are limited. We will be confirming your place the day before and offering it to a waiting list if we cannot obtain confirmation. This free walkshop has been made possible through the support of the Mayor of London.
Book your place now

London Tree Week 2017

This is one of our events for London Tree Week 2017, celebrating and exploring London’s trees and woodlands with a series of special events, Saturday 27 May and Sunday 4 June 2017.
Find out more