MP Landscape & Garden Design &; Food and fire outdoor living and The White Shire

About MP Landscape & Garden Design &; Food and fire outdoor living and The White Shire

Welcome back — I’m Michael Palmer, garden and landscape designer, founder of MP Landscape & Garden Design, and creator of Food & Fire Outdoor Living. Alongside my wife, Lyn, we run The White Shire, exploring the very best of Yorkshire — its landscapes, walks, history, and hidden gems. On this podcast, I’ll share stories from gardens I’ve designed, tips for outdoor spaces and kitchens, and adventures around Yorkshire. Whether you love garden design, cooking outdoors, or discovering Yorkshire, you’re in the right place.

Publisher

Michael Palmer

Category

arts

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

17 Nov 2025

Latest episode

21 Apr 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   21 Apr 2026

   The Power of Garden Lighting: Why It Matters More Than You Think

   Garden lighting is one of those features people often overlook — until they see what it can do. In this episode, I talk about how the right lighting transforms a garden at night, adds depth and atmosphere, and makes your outdoor space feel inviting all year round. I cover the practical benefits too: improving safety, guiding movement, highlighting planting and architectural features, and extending the time you can comfortably spend outside. If you’ve ever wondered whether lighting is worth the investment, this episode will show you exactly why it’s such a powerful part of modern garden design. MP Landscape & Garden Design (https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/)

2. 

   9 Apr 2026

   The Benefits of an Outdoor Office.

   Welcome back to the MP Landscape & Garden Design (https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/)podcast. Today, I’m talking about something that’s becoming incredibly popular across the UK — the outdoor office. Whether you call it a garden studio, a workspace, or just a quiet retreat at the bottom of the garden, these buildings are transforming the way people live and work. So let’s get into the benefits, and then I’ll walk you through the planning requirements you need to know before you start.

3. 

   1 Feb 2026

   From Goats to Honey: The Story of Herd & Hive.

   Welcome to The White Shire (https://www.thewhiteshire.co.uk/) Podcast, where I celebrate the makers, growers, and craftspeople who help keep Yorkshire’s heritage alive. I’m Michael, and each episode I take you behind the scenes of the small, hardworking businesses that give our county its character — the people who still believe in doing things properly, with care, craft, and a real connection to the land. Today, I’m sharing the story of a family‑run business that’s become a personal favourite of mine. It’s rooted in the countryside, shaped by the seasons, and built on simple, honest values. This is Herd & Hive (https://herdandhive.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOorDKKicAhxyKOSrXCgu9kEbb79gQvhHbGEJFW6azw9T2Z9kebLT) — and they’re a perfect example of what makes Yorkshire craft so special.

4. 

   29 Jan 2026

   Welcome back to the podcast. I’m Michael from ⁠MP Landscape and Garden Design⁠, and today I’m diving into one of my favourite topics in garden structure design

   Welcome back to the podcast. I’m Michael from MP Landscape and Garden Design (https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/), and today I’m diving into one of my favourite topics in garden structure design — timber pergolas and garden arches. These features do far more than frame a view or hold up a climbing rose. When they’re designed properly, they shape the way you move through a garden, create atmosphere, and add real architectural presence to an outdoor space.In this episode, I’ll be talking through how I design pergolas and arches for my clients, the practical considerations that go into choosing the right timber, and the subtle design decisions that make these structures feel intentional rather than just “added on”. Whether you’re looking to create shade, define a route, or add a focal point that draws the eye, timber structures can completely transform the character of a back garden.So settle in — and let’s explore how pergolas and arches can bring structure, style, and a touch of craftsmanship to your outdoor living space.

5. 

   23 Dec 2025

   The Benefits of a canopy in your outdoor space

   Welcome to the MP Landscape & Garden Design (https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/) podcast, where we talk about creating outdoor spaces that actually work for the way you live. Today we’re diving into one of our favourite topics — canopies. Not just the practical side, but how the right canopy can completely transform a back garden into a space you can enjoy all year round. From sheltering you from the Yorkshire rain to creating a cosy spot for cooking, relaxing, or entertaining, canopies are one of the most versatile features you can add to a garden. We’ll walk you through the options, the materials, the design choices, and a few real examples of how a well‑designed canopy can bring a garden to life.

6. 

   8 Dec 2025

   Wood Fired vs Gas Fired Ovens

   Welcome to Food & Fire Outdoor Living (https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/foodandfireoutdoorliving), the podcast that brings the magic of outdoor cooking right to your ears. Join Michael as he explores the art and science behind wood fired, gas fired, and dual-fuel ovens, sharing personal stories, practical tips, and the unique atmosphere each cooking style creates. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your outdoor kitchen journey, this podcast is your go-to guide for transforming your garden into a vibrant space of flavour, connection, and memorable meals.

7. 

   1 Dec 2025

   Cast Iron & Pyrex – Tools for Outdoor Cooking

   Welcome to the Food & Fire Outdoor Living (https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/foodandfireoutdoorliving)Podcast. I’m Michael from MP Landscape & Garden Design, and this is where I share practical tips, inspiration, and stories about cooking and living outdoors. From wood‑fired ovens to fire pits, and from timeless tools to modern garden design, it’s all about making the back garden a place of flavour, warmth, and connection. In today’s episode, we’re diving into two essentials that I rely on week after week: cast iron pans and Dutch ovens, and Pyrex bowls with lids. They might seem like very different tools, but together they open up a world of possibilities in outdoor cooking—whether it’s searing, roasting, baking, or slow‑cooking meals overnight.

8. 

   26 Nov 2025

   Three Years with Our Igneus Pizza Oven

   Three years ago, outdoor cooking wasn’t even on the radar. But a client’s request for an outdoor kitchen — complete with a pizza oven — set off a chain of events that changed everything. In this episode, Michael shares the story of how a visit to the Harrogate Home Building Show led to discovering the versatility of wood‑fired ovens, designing a kitchen space with Lyn, and installing their very own Igneus pizza oven just in time for Christmas. Since then, weekends at home have never been the same. Whatever the weather, cooking outdoors has become a way of life — from pizzas and breads to roasts and desserts. This is a story about design, discovery, and how one oven transformed everyday living into something extraordinary. https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/foodandfireoutdoorliving (https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/foodandfireoutdoorliving)

9. 

   25 Nov 2025

   Yorkshire’s Waterways: The Aire and Calder

   In this episode, Michael—founder of MP Landscape and Garden Design and co-creator of White Shire walks—takes listeners on a richly layered journey through Yorkshire’s historic waterways. Focusing on the rivers Aire and Calder, he explores how these vital channels shaped the region’s industrial rise, connected communities, and continue to offer scenic, heritage-rich walking routes today. Listeners will discover how the Aire and Calder Navigation transformed trade and transport during the Industrial Revolution, linking inland towns to the port of Goole and fuelling Yorkshire’s economic growth. Michael shares insights into the engineering marvels of locks, weirs, and canals, and how towns like Castleford—where the Aire and Calder meet—grew around these lifelines. The episode blends historical storytelling with practical inspiration, highlighting landmarks such as old mills, canal bridges, and towpaths that still echo the region’s industrial past. Michael also discusses the ecological and cultural revival of these waterways, now enjoyed by walkers, cyclists, and local communities. As a passionate advocate for regional exploration, Michael introduces White Shire walks—a growing collection of mapped Yorkshire routes available at whiteshire.co.uk (http://www.whiteshire.co.uk/). These walks include paths along the Aire and Calder, offering listeners a chance to experience the landscape firsthand, with history, nature, and local charm woven into every step. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful walk with purpose, this episode invites you to see Yorkshire’s rivers not just as watercourses, but as storytellers. Michael’s voice brings warmth, knowledge, and a deep connection to the land, encouraging listeners to explore, reflect, and support the communities that keep this heritage alive. Tune in for a thoughtful, locally grounded episode that celebrates Yorkshire’s waterways—and find out how you can walk the story yourself. Would you like a shorter version for platforms with tighter character limits, like Spotify or Apple Podcasts? I can also format this for your Whiteshire blog or embed it into your podcast page.

10. 

    24 Nov 2025

    Food & Fire Feast: Carrot Soup & Stews

    Join Michael and Lyn in the back garden as they slow‑cook a rustic carrot soup in the wood‑fired oven. From chopping carrots and parsnips to roasting with garlic and charred onion, this two‑day recipe builds flavour layer by layer. On day two, fresh ginger, oranges, and stock transform the roasted vegetables into a silky, golden soup. And because they never cook just one thing, the fire also brings to life a rich Bolognese with homemade bread, a hearty chicken stew, and a slow‑cooked pork stew. It’s a celebration of patience, flame, and the joy of cooking together. https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/foodandfireoutdoorliving (https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/foodandfireoutdoorliving)

11. 

    20 Nov 2025

    The benefits of an outdoor kitchen

    Step into the back garden and discover the art of outdoor living. Food & Fire Outdoor Living is the podcast that celebrates the beauty, flavour, and lifestyle of cooking outdoors. Hosted by Michael of MP Landscape and Garden Design, each episode explores the benefits of outdoor kitchens, the inspiration behind great design, and the joy of entertaining under the open sky. From rustic stone pizza ovens to sleek modern BBQ setups, Michael shares expert insights, practical tips, and creative ideas to help you transform your outdoor space into the heart of your home. Whether you’re dreaming of a bespoke outdoor kitchen, looking for recipes to fire up your grill, or simply love the atmosphere of gathering with friends and family outside, this podcast is your guide to living life around food and fire. https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/foodandfireoutdoorliving (https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/foodandfireoutdoorliving)

12. 

    19 Nov 2025

    🌿 New Episode: Unlocking the Benefits of Garden & Landscape Design 🌿

    Discover how thoughtful garden and landscape design can transform your outdoor space into a place of beauty, function, and pride. In this episode, Michael—founder of MP Landscape and Garden Design—shares the principles behind great design, from unity and flow to focal points and seasonal interest. 🎙️ Learn how professional planning adds value to your home, saves time and money, and creates a garden tailored to your lifestyle. Whether it’s bespoke outdoor kitchens, planting schemes, or heritage-inspired layouts, Michael’s designs bring Yorkshire’s landscapes to life. 👉 Tune in now and explore how design can turn your back garden into the space you’ve always dreamed of. https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/ (https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/)

13. 

    19 Nov 2025

    Yorkshire’s Waterways – The Story of the Aire and Calder

    In this episode, Michael—founder of MP Landscape and Garden Design and co-creator of White Shire walks—takes listeners on a richly layered journey through Yorkshire’s historic waterways. Focusing on the rivers Aire and Calder, he explores how these vital channels shaped the region’s industrial rise, connected communities, and continue to offer scenic, heritage-rich walking routes today. Listeners will discover how the Aire and Calder Navigation transformed trade and transport during the Industrial Revolution, linking inland towns to the port of Goole and fuelling Yorkshire’s economic growth. Michael shares insights into the engineering marvels of locks, weirs, and canals, and how towns like Castleford—where the Aire and Calder meet—grew around these lifelines. The episode blends historical storytelling with practical inspiration, highlighting landmarks such as old mills, canal bridges, and towpaths that still echo the region’s industrial past. Michael also discusses the ecological and cultural revival of these waterways, now enjoyed by walkers, cyclists, and local communities. As a passionate advocate for regional exploration, Michael introduces White Shire walks—a growing collection of mapped Yorkshire routes available at whiteshire.co.uk (http://www.whiteshire.co.uk/). These walks include paths along the Aire and Calder, offering listeners a chance to experience the landscape firsthand, with history, nature, and local charm woven into every step. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful walk with purpose, this episode invites you to see Yorkshire’s rivers not just as watercourses, but as storytellers. Michael’s voice brings warmth, knowledge, and a deep connection to the land, encouraging listeners to explore, reflect, and support the communities that keep this heritage alive. Tune in for a thoughtful, locally grounded episode that celebrates Yorkshire’s waterways—and find out how you can walk the story yourself.

14. 

    18 Nov 2025

    Intrduction to The White Shire

    "Welcome to The White Shire podcast — your friendly guide to Yorkshire walks, local gems, and the stories that make this region tick. I’m Michael, founder of MP Landscape and Garden Design and co-creator of whiteshire.co.uk, and I’ll be your host as we explore the paths, pubs, and people that shape our corner of the world. Whether you're lacing up your boots or just dreaming of the Dales, this is your place for fresh air, local flair, and a bit of banter. Let’s get walking…" https://www.thewhiteshire.co.uk/ (https://www.thewhiteshire.co.uk/)

15. 

    18 Nov 2025

    Mp Landscape & Garden Designs design process

    "Welcome to the MP Landscape & Garden Design podcast — where creativity meets craftsmanship in every back garden. I’m Michael, a qualified garden designer based in Pontefract and Wakefield, and today I’m taking you behind the scenes of my design process. From first concepts to final garden layout plans, I’ll walk you through how I tailor each garden to reflect the client’s lifestyle, space, and vision. Whether it’s a sleek outdoor kitchen or a peaceful planting scheme, it all starts with listening, imagining, and designing with purpose. Let’s dig in…" https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/services-1 (https://www.mpgardendesigns.info/services-1)

16. 

    17 Nov 2025

    Food & Fire Outdoor Living

    Welcome to the Food & Fire Outdoor Living series by MP Landscape & Garden Design - where we bring style, function, and a touch of luxury to your garden. In this episode, we're exploring one of the biggest trends in outdoor living: the rise of outdoor kitchens. From bespoke designs to practical tips, we'll show you how to transform your garden into a space for cooking, dining, and entertaining in style. Let's dive in!"

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Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.