Make your way to Shambellie House on Sunday 31 July to discover more about the history behind the plants and herbs we still see today in our hedgerows. In times gone by they were used for medicine, dyeing, for cleaning, to deter fleas and vermin, for strewing and for their aroma. However, many herbs also have myths and stories behind them, and in folklore could be used to repel witches, for protection and even to restore virginity! It was thought that bad smells brought diseases, so people carried pomanders to hold to their noses to dispel smells, and you are invited to make your own tussie mussie or herb bag to take away.
Displayed in the atmospheric setting of Shambellie House will be fresh and dried herbs, equipment used by doctors of yesteryear to diagnose ailments, to deter the plague, along with some tools of the Barber Surgeon. William Stewart of Shambellie, whose portrait hangs at the house, was Mayor of London in the early 18 th century and also a member of the Barber Surgeons Company and President Governor of St Bartholomew’s Hospital.
Plants and lavender grown locally in New Abbey will be available to buy. You can investigate the history of this Scottish Baronial style house and grounds, and find out more about our activity programme. The gift shop will be open, with drinks and cakes available.
The house is open this Sunday 31 July, 10am-4pm. Admission is free.
To find out more about Shambellie House visit:
https://www.shambelliehouse.org
