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Episode · This Natural Life

Judi Dench

9 Jul 2026 · 24 min

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Episode notes

Judi Dench is one of the nation's best loved actors, but she is also well-known for her love of trees. In this programme, Martha Kearney meets Judi at her woodland garden in Surrey, where she learns that every time a friend dies, Judi plants a tree in their memory. Judi gives Martha a tour of the woodland, and talks about the many references to the natural world which can be found in Shakespeare's plays. She points out some of the trees in her woodland which hold special significance for her. Producer: Emma Campbell

Podcast

This Natural Life

BBC Radio 4 · Tech & Science · English

Martha Kearney explores the importance of the natural world in the lives of her guests. Each person she meets takes her to a location which means something to them, and describes the role nature has played in their life, explaining how it has shaped, influenced or fascinated them. In the process s

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