Chelsea Flower Show

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show, held in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea in the third week of May, is the world's most prestigious garden show — a five-day event that sets horticultural and garden design trends globally and draws visitors from across the world.

What's There

The main attraction is the Show Gardens — large-scale designed gardens commissioned from leading landscape designers, judged and awarded medals. The Great Pavilion covers acres of cut flowers, plants and specialist nurseries. There are also artisan gardens, food stalls and a significant retail area where plants from the show are sold on the final days.

Getting Tickets

Tickets go on sale to RHS members first, then to the public — usually from October for the following May. The show sells out, particularly for the first two days (Wednesday and Thursday) when the gardens are freshest. Evening tickets (Friday and Saturday evening sessions) are sometimes easier to obtain. Book through the RHS website.

Practical Tips

Wear comfortable shoes — the ground is uneven and the site is large. Arrive at opening to see the Show Gardens before the crowds build. The final day (Saturday) is the cheapest ticket and also when plants are sold off — good for plant buyers, less good for seeing the gardens at their best.

Tips

• Book as soon as tickets go on general release — popular days sell out quickly.
• RHS membership gives early booking access and is worth considering if you attend other RHS shows.
• Wednesday and Thursday give the best garden conditions; Saturday is cheapest but gardens show wear.
• The evening sessions are a genuinely pleasant way to see the show with smaller crowds.