Join our Glendurgan Gardens Meet Up
Connect with likeminded quieteers as we explore Glendurgan Gardens near Falmouth, with a member of the National Trust team to guide us, on Sunday 12th October from 11:00am.
This Meet Up is designed to help you enjoy something you might not normally do with likeminded people in a calm and gentle way that feels authentic to your true quiet self. It’s a safe space for you to gently stretch your comfort zone as part of a community of quieteers who truly get you.
We can’t wait to welcome you.
Your Meet Up Leaders

Hayley Stanton

Michael Dickinson

Angela Hatherell

Connector & Director
Hayley Stanton
Hi, I’m Hayley.
I, too, am a quieter person. As a highly sensitive introvert, I love and appreciate my quiet strengths now, but I spent much of my life not feeling good enough and experiencing social anxiety. I missed so many opportunities and connections because I was afraid of being judged harshly, criticised and rejected –and because I doubted that I had the ‘right’ personality to succeed. Now, I’m passionate about helping quiet people discover their unique qualities, gifts, passions and experiences and explore how best to use these to express themselves more authentically, connect more meaningfully and contribute to their world in a way that works with their quieter or more sensitive nature – and I’d love to connect with you at one of our Meet Ups.

Connector
Michael Dickinson
Hi I’m Michael and I’d describe myself as an introvert. I have at times struggled to have the self-confidence to connect with people and make friends. This has been particularly hard in the past few years where I have moved a number of times and had to restart this process in different places. I know how it can be to feel lonely, isolated, or that there might be something ‘wrong’ with you.
I’ve grown in self-confidence and self-acceptance since moving back to Cornwall, in a large part due to Quiet Connections and the connections I’ve made here.
I love the vision of Quiet Connections to give quiet people, like me, a space to be ourselves and make meaningful connections. I hope that as a Quiet Connector I can help to make Falmouth Meet Up a welcoming space for others.

Connector & Director
Angela Hatherell
Hi, I’m Angela. I’ve spent my life quietly working my way through several different careers, having trained as an architect and worked in practice, research and education, and also in film, television and arts management. I always felt most at home by the sea, so in 2018 I made the decision to move to Cornwall with my cockapoo, Artie.
Once here I cofounded Create CIC in Camborne, with the aim of giving anyone access to creativity, regardless of experience, ability or income. We run workshops, and offer access to equipment and studio space, for pottery, glass and jewellery. If you’re ever in town pop by and say hello!
As a quiet person who is also a director of a community interest company in Cornwall, discovering Quiet Connections has been a revelation to me. It has challenged my perception of my own and others’ quietness and allowed me to see it as a strength rather than a barrier – I can be successful, socially and professionally, because of, not in spite of, my quietness.
What to Expect
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It’s okay to talk and it’s okay to be quiet too
We understand that you may prefer to ease into conversation gradually, or that some days you might like to explore quietly and take in the beauty of these wonderful gardens whilst simply being in the company of others. We welcome both quietude and chatter.
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You can go at your own pace
We'll be walking at a leisurely pace with opportunity to pause along the way, enjoy the scenery, or engage in some mindful photography. Our intention is to help you connect with one-another so that you can nurture your sense of belonging within our community, but there’s absolutely no pressure. You’re invited to do what feels right for you.
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A Guided Tour
We'll be welcomed by small team of National Trust Volunteers who will guide us through the gardens. They'll be on hand to answer any questions you have, and share their expert knowledge about the plants, environment, and history of Glendurgan.
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A relaxed, calming environment
Glendurgan Gardens is a National Trust property. We'll have beautiful groves and orchards to explore - and if you're up for an adventure, you could even have a go at the cherry laurel maze! For those that would like to join us for a drink or a bite to eat on the day, there is a tea room that some of us will be visiting at the end of the guided tour. There's also a little bookshop!
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A community of understanding
Our gentle-natured team and your fellow quieteers attending are likely to share similar feelings and experiences with you. So here you can connect with people who truly get you - and feel part of a supportive, welcoming community together.
Where to find us

Glendurgan Gardens
Mawnan Smith, Falmouth, TR11 5JZ
Google Map | Street View | What3Words: ///wrong.proofread.ombudsman
Getting here
- By car: There is an onsite car park available. Parking will be free for all of us taking part in the guided tour for this day only, so you don't need to buy a ticket. This is a generous offer from the lovely people running this tour!
- By train: The nearest stations are Penmere and Falmouth Town on the Maritime Branch Line from Truro. From these, you will need to get the bus.
- By bus: The nearest bus stop is at the entrance to Glendurgan Garden. Buses 35 and 63 run from Falmouth Moor to Glendurgan Gardens. The bus service is operated by OTS as part of the Go Cornwall Transport for Cornwall Network. View timetable here.
If you would like any more detailed information about getting to this Pop Up Meet Up, you can message us at meetups@quietconnections.co.uk.
How to join this Pop Up Meet Up
It would be really helpful if you could sign up using our booking form. This means we know to look out for you; we can say hello and answer any of your questions before you come along, and we can easily contact you if there are any changes to the Meet Up.
Meeting Point
Both parking and entry will be free on the day, with our sincere thanks to Glendurgan Gardens. We'll meet in the Car Park at 10:50am and head to the entrance together.