The Classroom at Bothy Gardens · Founding Year 2026–2027
Help bring The Classroom at Bothy Gardens to life
Join The Barn Raising Tribe. A founding community of curious, creative and community-minded people helping shape a new gathering place for Wiltshire.
The building will soon be standing. Now we are inviting people to help us turn it into a place for learning, making, conversation, creativity and community.
Come for one evening, or become part of the founding story.
A barn raising was never just about the barn.
It was about neighbours showing up, sharing skills, sharing food, sharing stories and building something useful together.
That is the spirit we want to bring to The Classroom/Library at Bothy Gardens.
What is The Barn Raising Tribe?
The Barn Raising Tribe is a founding supporter programme for The Classroom/Library at Bothy Gardens.
Bothy Gardens is a small independent business, not a charity, so this is not a donation campaign. It is a way to become part of the founding year of the space while receiving access to gatherings, behind-the-scenes updates, opening invitations and early access to future events.
The funds raised will help us furnish, equip and bring The Classroom to life, with furniture, lighting, workshop materials, books, tools, equipment and all the small details that turn a building into a place people love spending time in.
The Classroom is not being built for a community. It is being built with one.
Three Ways to Take Part
Individual Gathering Ticket
Join us for one Barn Raising Gathering of your choice. Each evening offers a relaxed chance to hear from an interesting guest, enjoy conversation, explore the space and be part of the early story of The Classroom.
Includes:
guest speaker, storyteller or conversation
welcome drink token
nibbles and informal conversation
time to explore the space
chance to meet interesting local people
For people who are curious, local, or just want one lovely evening.
Barn Raising Tribe Pass
Come to as many of the 13 Thursday evening gatherings as you like. This pass is ideal for people who want to stay connected through the season, meet different guests and be part of the growing community around The Classroom.
Includes
all from Gathering Ticket +
invitation to the official opening celebration
behind-the-scenes updates
early access to future workshops and events
optional Founding Member recognition
occasional member-only gatherings
opportunities to help shape future programming
For people who want to be part of the story from the beginning.
For individuals, small businesses or organisations who would like to make a significant founding contribution.Barn Raising Patron
A Barn Raising Patron partnership is shaped through conversation, so it feels meaningful and beneficial for both sides. Patrons help bring The Classroom to life while becoming part of its first chapter in a more personal way.
Includes:
all from Tribe Pass +
optional Patron recognition(website or at events)
a private visit, garden walk or conversation
opportunities to support a specific part of the space
potential use of the space for a small private gathering
a bespoke thank-you shaped around your interests
The Autumn Gathering Series
Thursday evenings · 27 August – 26 November 2026
Throughout autumn 2026, we will host a series of Thursday evening gatherings exploring creativity, gardens, craft, learning, place-making and community.
The evenings may include talks, fireside conversations, live podcast-style interviews, storytelling evenings, informal panels and community gatherings.
Themes:
gardens and growing
craft and making
creativity and learning
place-making and community
stories, memory and belonging
local enterprise and imagination
Get In Touch
If you're interested in working with us, complete the form with a few details about your project. We'll review your message and get back to you within 48 hours.