Chelsea Flower Show

The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most prestigious and well-known horticultural exhibitions in the world. The event is held annually in London by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). Thousands of visitors, designers and florists gather here to see the best gardens, the latest plants and vibrant floral displays. The event is broadcast on the BBC and is considered an important part of the UK's cultural calendar.

History of the Chelsea Flower Show

The Chelsea Flower Show has a tradition dating back almost a century and is considered a symbol of British horticultural art. The first exhibition was held in 1862 in Kensington, but in 1913 it moved to the Royal Hospital Chelsea, where it is still held today. During this time, the show has grown from a local event for professionals into an international festival that brings together garden designers, botanists and florists from all over the world.

Since the end of the 19th century, the exhibition has enjoyed the special attention of the royal family. It was visited by King George V and Queen Mary, and later by Queen Elizabeth II. Today, members of the British monarchy often attend the opening.

With each decade, the Chelsea Flower Show expanded, with new categories of gardens appearing:

• exhibition;
• urban;
• conceptual.

After the Second World War, the show became a symbol of recovery and faith in the future, and in the 21st century, it has become a platform for innovative ideas in landscape design, environmental solutions and sustainable gardening. Today, the exhibition not only showcases the beauty of plants, but also sets global trends in gardening culture.

Every year, the Chelsea Flower Show attracts not only gardening enthusiasts but also royal guests. This year, King Charles III and Queen Camilla attended the exhibition and viewed the new displays with interest, including the RHS and BBC Radio 2 Dog Garden. In recent years, other members of the dynasty have also visited the show: Queen Elizabeth II, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, Princess Alexandra and Prince William, which once again confirms the special place this event holds in the royal family's calendar.

Chelsea Flower Show Programme

The Chelsea Flower Show programme is traditionally packed with events and lasts for five days. Each day has its own special features. The first day is Preview Day, when only RHS members and members of the press are allowed to enter the grounds. From the second day onwards, the show is open to the general public.

The main focus is on garden displays:

• designer gardens;
• urban projects;
• ecological landscapes;
• mini gardens;
• pavilion compositions.

New plant varieties, floral installations and cutting-edge horticultural technologies are on display here. The Great Pavilion occupies a special place. This is a pavilion with an area of over 10,000 m², where rare flowers, trees and shrubs from all over the world are presented.

In addition to gardens and pavilions, the programme includes:

• the presentation of RHS medals for the best garden, best plant and innovative solutions;
• lectures and master classes on plant care and garden design;
• special shows for BBC television, including reports featuring well-known presenters;
• evening events, including meetings with designers and florists;
• the show concludes with a traditional final plant sale, when exhibits can be purchased to take home a piece of the legendary festival.

Chelsea Flower Show Location

The Chelsea Flower Show is held annually at the Royal Hospital Chelsea. This is a historic hospital for army veterans. It was built in the 17th century and designed by architect Sir Christopher Wren. This picturesque complex is located in the Chelsea district in west London and has been the permanent venue for the flower festival for over a hundred years.

The venue is ideal for the exhibition. Spacious green lawns, well-kept alleys and architectural ensemble give the event a special charm. It can easily accommodate dozens of designer gardens, pavilions and themed areas, while remaining convenient for both visitors and exhibitors. Thanks to its location, the show has become an integral part of the cultural life of the area and of London as a whole.

Chelsea Flower Show Map

For the convenience of visitors, the organisers publish an official Chelsea Flower Show map every year, which marks the following locations:

• entrance areas;
• pavilions;
• designer gardens;
• shopping areas;
• cafés;
• medical points;
• rest areas.

The map is available online on the RHS website and in print at the entrance. It is recommended that you study the map in advance to plan your route. For example, you could visit the Great Pavilion first, then the designer gardens, and save time at the end of the day for the plant and souvenir fair.

How to get to the Chelsea Flower Show?

By train

The nearest railway station is London Victoria, from where it is a 15-20 minute walk to the Royal Hospital Chelsea. Buses and taxis also run from the station. The station serves trains travelling south, which is convenient for those coming from other parts of England.

By underground

The best underground stations are:

• Sloane Square (District and Circle lines). Approximately 10 minutes on foot.
• Victoria Station. Takes about 15 minutes on foot.
• South Kensington. 20 minutes on foot.

Many visitors prefer to get off at Sloane Square, as the route from the station passes through the picturesque streets of Chelsea.

By bus

The exhibition is easily accessible by city bus. The nearest routes are 11, 137, 211, 360 and 452. The bus stops are located next to the Royal Hospital Chelsea, making the bus one of the most accessible options.

By car

Travelling by car is not recommended, as traffic in the Chelsea area is very congested on show days. However, for those who prefer to drive, there are city car parks nearby or private car parks that can be booked in advance.

Parking

There is no parking on the exhibition grounds. The closest options are commercial car parks near Chelsea Embankment and Pimlico, as well as parking areas in the Victoria Station area. The organisers strongly recommend using public transport to avoid traffic jams and high parking costs.

Visitor information

The Chelsea Flower Show is an event with a special atmosphere. It is not only about flowers and gardens, but also about style, tradition and comfort for guests.

Dress Code

Although there is no strict dress code, most guests choose an elegant but comfortable style. Men wear light suits or jackets, while women prefer dresses, blouses with skirts or classic trouser suits. Comfortable shoes or sandals are a practical choice, as walking around the grounds takes several hours. It is also worth bringing an umbrella or raincoat, as the weather in London can be changeable.

Dates

In 2025, the Chelsea Flower Show will take place from 20 to 24 May. Traditionally, the first two days are reserved for RHS members and the press, and from 21 May, the doors are open to the general public. In 2026, the dates are tentatively scheduled for 19–23 May.

Tickets

Tickets must be purchased in advance as they are limited in number. Prices range from £37 to £120 depending on the day of visit and category (day, evening, VIP). Sales usually start in the autumn of the previous year via the official RHS website. Children are only allowed on certain days, so please check the rules when purchasing.

Where to stay

The Chelsea area and neighbouring Belgravia offer a wide range of hotels and apartments:

1. Luxury. The Cadogan, Belmond, The Goring. Ideal for those who appreciate luxurious holidays and a quiet, relaxed atmosphere.
2. Mid-range. Premier Inn London Victoria, Sloane Place Hotel. Ideal for those who appreciate peace and quiet and unobtrusive service.
3. Budget options. Hostels and guest houses in the Pimlico and Earl's Court areas. Very comfortable and cosy options, convenient for all guests without exception.

It is recommended to book accommodation several months before the event, as there is a large influx of tourists during this period.

Contact details and postcode

Venue: Royal Hospital Chelsea, London SW3 4SR.

Organiser: Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

For all questions about tickets and the programme, guests can contact the RHS via the online form on the website or the RHS support service.

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