Enjoy the Blooming Best at the Chelsea Flower Show!
Not Just Flowers at the Chelsea Flower Show!
The most famous garden show in the world is London’s Chelsea Flower Show and it’s been treating visitors to a plethora of horticulture since it first began in 1862. This is the flagship event of the Royal Horticultural Society, attracting over 150,000 visitors to the grounds of the historic Royal Hospital Chelsea, where it has been held every May since 1913.
It may be known as the Chelsea Flower Show but it’s not just flowers on show here; in fact, officially the show is called the Great Spring Show and it showcases the best in flowers, plants, design and landscaping from many different horticultural experts.
So what exactly will you see at the show? Well the Show Gardens are one of the most popular features. These are impressive gardens that have been designed, usually around a theme, and may include structures, water features, landscaping and more. If you’re looking for inspiration for your own garden you’ll find plenty of it here!
The Show Gardens are often on a grand scale but if you have a smaller urban garden don’t worry, you won’t miss out – at the 2009 Chelsea Flower Show they also featured Urban and Courtyard Gardens, so let’s hope they do the same in 2010!
The Floral Design Marquee is on a smaller scale too, as in here you’ll find the most amazing floral arrangements, while in the Great Pavilion, at the centre of the Chelsea Flower Show, you’ll get the chance to see the best plants and flowers that the professionals can produce, including a number of new varieties that have never before been seen.
Once you’ve got your inspiration perhaps you need some education! The Gardening Matters Marquee is the place to find some as you have the opportunity to listen to talks by horticultural experts, and even to ask your own questions. Maybe you’ll find a book is better for you – well you can buy books, and all sorts of other items associated with gardening and horticulture from the various stalls.
Visiting the Chelsea Flower Show
Every year the Chelsea Flower Show is a sell-out because it’s so popular. No tickets are available at the gates as they are all sold in advance, so if you want to come along in 2010 make sure you get your tickets as soon as possible.
The 2010 RHS Chelsea Flower Show will take place from Tuesday 25 May to Saturday 29 May, but the Tuesday and Wednesday are preview days for which tickets are only sold to Royal Horticultural Society members. The official website has all the information you’ll need about ticket prices and types of tickets available.
Finally, don’t forget to book your hotel accommodation early too. You’ll find some high class hotels nearby to the Royal Hospital Chelsea, but London has hotels for every budget if 5 star luxury is beyond your price range!