CRESSING PARISH COUNCILFriends of Cressing Temple
Friends of Cressing Temple
The Friends of Cressing Temple was established in 2013 and became a charity in 2016, we are managed and led by volunteers. We seek to conserve, enhance and develop the buildings, gardens and historic site at Cressing Temple, as a unique historical, social, horticultural and educational record and resource. We work closely with Essex County Council, who own and manage the site. We are always keen to attract new members and volunteers.
If you wish to know more about our work and becoming a member of the Friends group please go to our website https://thefriendsofcressingtemple.org/
Our volunteering opportunities include the Community Garden, Tudor Walled Garden and Cullen garden (adjacent to the Farmhouse), we have an archive and a crafts group and we have recently secured an Arts Council Grant for our Working Farm project, to bring to life and reflect the Farming Heritage of Cressing Temple, including refurbishment of some farm machinery.
If you are interested in volunteering or learning more about opportunities at Cressing Temple, please email – head.gardeners@essex.gov.uk
The community garden which was set up in 2016 has become a community hub with other groups based there including Braintree Beekeepers and Cressing Community Shed, who provide opportunities for woodworking, repairs and hobbies several days a week. Also Trustlinks, a mental health and wellbeing charity, currently provides a weekly session providing therapeutic gardening.
We raise funds through membership fees, sales of garden produce and plants, willow weaving courses, garden tours and our annual Apple Day in October, alongside applying for grants for specific pieces of work. We appreciate the support given to our work from Braintree District Council, Essex County Council, Essex Community Foundation and the Arts Council.
Dates for the diary for 2025
Chairman’s Community Showcase – Braintree Museum 24th April
Braintree Volunteer Fair – Braintree Town Hall – 4th June
A Tudor day in the Walled Garden marking 30 years since the restoration – 28th June, 10am – 3pm
Archeological and Heritage Day at Cressing Temple – 24th July
Cressing Temple Apple day – October 12th
