The Royal Horticultural Society's Chelsea Flower Show, is one of the most highly anticipated events in any garden enthusiast's calendar. The five-day event, which this year is taking place from 21st – 25th May 2024, is an unmissable opportunity to see some of the most beautifully planned gardens from the most exciting players in the industry.
Alongside the many show gardens, there are a series of smaller garden displays which are grouped into three categories: ‘All About Plants’, ‘Sanctuary Gardens’ and ‘Balcony and Container Gardens’.
This year will see the first garden designed for children, by children. The ‘RHS No Adults Allowed’ garden has been created by the children of Sulivan School, with the expert guidance of House & Garden’s Rising Star of Garden Design 2023, Harry Holding.
The design fulfils every child’s dream of a mystical wonderland: a trail of woodland, meadows and oversized plants lead to a natural den set within a pool of water. The garden aims to highlight the importance of children having a connection with nature.
There are also plenty of gardens with unexpected elements. Taking place in the Great Pavilion at RHS, visitors to the ‘All About Plants’, gardens visitors can enjoy the Planet Good Earth Garden, designed by Betongpark & Urban and which is described as an 'edible skatepark.' A quieter place of reflection can be found in the Sue Ryder Grief Kind Garden, designed by Katherine Holland.
Among the many ‘Sanctuary Gardens’ is the The Boodles National Gallery Garden, designed by Catherine MacDonald. In celebration of the National Gallery’s 200th anniversary, Catherine has designed a garden inspired by the gallery’s paintings: in particular those of Monet, Seurat and Van Gough, whose expressive use of brush strokes and greens mixed with bright colours will be reinterpreted using green and coloured planting.
Here is everything you need to know about the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024:
Chelsea Flower Show dates
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is open from 21 - 25th May 2024, Tuesday to Saturday (8am-8pm Tuesday to Thursday, 8am-10.30pm on Friday, and 8am-5.30pm on Saturday).
Tuesday & Wednesday are the RHS Members’ Days, but from Thursday onwards it is open to all ticket holders.
Where is the Chelsea Flower Show?
The show takes place in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, an Old Soldiers' retirement home and nursing home for some 300 veterans of the British Army. It's a 66-acre site located on Royal Hospital Road in Chelsea. The entrance to the show is located on Royal Hospital Road, and the address of the Chelsea Flower Show is: London Gate, Royal Hospital Road, Royal Hospital, Chelsea, London SW3 4SR.
Sloane Square tube station (on the District and Circle Lines) is a 10-minute walk from the show-ground. If you're driving, it is highly recommended that you pre-book parking, both to save money and to guarantee yourself a space on the day. There are also shuttle buses to the show from Battersea Park and Victoria Station.
How to get Chelsea Flower Show tickets
Tickets can be bought online at rhs.org.uk and are still available. Members' tickets cost from £38.85, and general entry is from £47.85. Tuesday and Wednesday's events are only open to members.
How to watch the 2024 Chelsea Flower Show on TV and BBC iPlayer:
The BBC is yet to announce the full viewing programme, but we will keep you updated as soon as we hear the schedule.
Is there a dress code for the Chelsea Flower Show?
There isn't an official dress code but the RHS suggests smart/casual attire, and crucially, comfortable shoes. A visit to the show involves a lot of walking and it’s worth planning ahead to avoid aching feet. As it’s the UK, don’t forget to check the weather forecast and pack umbrellas/jumpers accordingly.
What's the nearest tube to the Chelsea Flower Show?
Sloane Square tube station (on the District and Circle Lines) is just over a ten minute walk away.
There are also shuttle buses to the showground from Battersea Park and Victoria Station.
Can you take your own food and drink into the Chelsea Flower Show?
Visitors are welcome to bring picnics, though there are also plenty of food options on site. This includes a bookable catering facility providing three-course meals and afternoon tea, as well as a selection of food and drinks stands scattered throughout the venue.
Which is the best day to go to the Chelsea Flower Show?
All days are worth going but to beat the crowds go first thing in the morning or last thing in the evening. It's also worth becoming a member of the RHS, as you'll be entitled to tickets on members' day, which is less busy.
Are you allowed to take photos at the Chelsea Flower Show?
It's encouraged. Keep track of designs you love and plant names by taking photos.
