Andy has dedicated more than thirty years to the world of horticulture, working in commercial growing where he cultivated trees, shrubs, climbing plants, perennials and seasonal bedding for the Garden Centre trade. In later years, he moved into a role supporting other growers, providing technical advice and specialist products to help them improve and refine their own production.
This journey has given him not only practical expertise but also a deep understanding of the challenges and joys of gardening. It is this knowledge that he now shares with others at Bowden Lodge. Whether you are taking your first steps as a gardener or already have experience and wish to broaden your skills, Andy brings warmth, patience and enthusiasm to every course.
During the first COVID-19 lockdown, Bowden Lodge received support through a European Regional Development Fund Business Recovery Grant. This enabled the purchase of a glasshouse, now an important space where students can gain hands-on experience in a practical and welcoming setting.
Today, our gardening courses continue to reflect Andy’s lifelong passion for plants and his belief that knowledge shared helps others to grow with confidence. For future course dates or further information, please get in touch with Andy at Bowden Lodge.
Reviews
2026 (SG)
I’ve just completed a great week at Bowden Lodge on the gardening course with Andy. He is so knowledgeable and patient. I’m a keen gardener and have a bit of an ad hoc approach to gardening. I learnt so much this week and have been inspired to be a bit more focused. I’ve learnt a lot more about soil structure and composition. How to sow seeds and move them on. Taking cuttings was a real eye opener and a great way to prorogate for free! The location is a few minutes walk from Southport’s Lord Street with shops and restaurants. The glass house had great benches inside which were at a perfect height for me. It was a very hands on approach which gave plenty of time to really improve my skills. Andy’s lovely wife Jane provided coffee and sweet treats in the middle of the morning. I would highly recommend this course to anyone, of any ability to attend this and stay in guest house if you can. They have a lovely function room where you can have afternoon tea if there is a group of you as well.
