Ordsall Hall stands on the site of an ancient manor house, visited by the humanist scholar Erasmus in 1499, and parts of its fifteenth-century construction survive. Now managed by Salford City Council and open to the public, its attractions include landscaped ornamental gardens and an organically managed heritage garden cultivating historic varieties of flowers, vegetables and herbs.

This guided tour highlights the weird and wonderful remedies of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, displaying many plants used for culinary, medicinal and dyeing purposes. Head Gardener Lindsay Berry will highlight some of the more unusual applications, including remedies to treat pleurisy, leprosy, piles and those to 'open obstructions of the brain'!  Some of the concoctions discussed will be available to try for those participants feeling brave enough.

There is no charge for this walk. Numbers will be limited to 15 people, so please register in advance. You can do this at any time before the Congress by emailing tours@ichstm2013.com with your details; or you can sign up in person at the Congress Events Desk. Please arrange your own travel to Ordsall Hall.

For more information about Ordsall Hall Gardens, please see the website at www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk/culture/ordsall-hall/gardens or follow @VisitSalford on Twitter.