Highlights Of This Year’s Show:
RHS and BBC Radio 2 Dog Garden: Monty Don’s First Chelsea Garden
At last, after decades of coaxing others to horticultural greatness, Monty Don is stepping into the Chelsea design arena himself. His debut garden, created to be dog-friendly and as scruffy as it is beautiful, will be filled with the kinds of plants that many gardeners consider weeds, and pull out, such as daisies, dandelions and clover.
Hospice UK: Garden of Compassion by Tom Hoblyn
Gold medal veteran Tom Hoblyn returns with a Mediterranean-inspired retreat designed as a sanctuary to offer solace and calm at the end of life. The tranquil planting scheme is a lesson in how nature can soothe and console in palliative care.
Tackle HIV: Challenging Stigma Garden by Manoj Malde
Two years ago after marrying in a joyous ceremony on Press Day, award-winning designer and TV presenter Manoj presents a garden celebrating scientific breakthroughs in HIV treatment. Centred around an elegant gazebo and medicinal plants, the garden offers visitors a space for contemplation and is a reminder of how far we’ve come in terms of science transforming lives.
The Avanade ‘Intelligent’ Garden by Je Ahn and Tom Massey
Everyone is talking about Chelsea’s first AI-powered garden created by garden designer Tom Massey and architect Je Ahn. Monitoring everything from soil pH to rainfall, this smart space showcases how technology can help future-proof urban gardens. Visitors are invited to pose their gardening questions directly to the AI – proving that even Mother Nature can embrace a digital assistant.
The London Square Chelsea Pensioners Garden by Dave Green
At this year’s show, the Chelsea Pensioners will have a verdant retreat of their very own. Dave Green’s heartfelt tribute is a peaceful and sheltered oasis honouring three centuries of history at the Royal Hospital. Its seating is thoughtfully upholstered in the famous scarlet fabric of retired soldier’s uniforms. After the show, the garden will be relocated and become a permanent addition within the hospital grounds at Prince of Wales Court.
Where to Eat and Drink During Chelsea Flower Show Week
Floristry fever isn’t confined to the showground. The surrounding borough blossoms too, as restaurants embrace the spirit of Chelsea in Bloom through lavish installations and floral-inspired menus.
Spring Garden at Royal Hospital Chelsea
Within the show’s own leafy grounds, celebrated chefs Skye Gyngell and chef José Pizarro are joining forces in pop-up alfresco chalets. Expect a mix of Spanish and British classics, alongside nature walks, live music and homemade botanical infusions.
Stanley’s, 151 Sydney Street, SW1
A mere stroll from the show, this pretty courtyard dotted with olive trees and potted blooms is an ideal post-show retreat.
The Ivy Chelsea Garden, 195 King’s Road, SW3
The Ivy Chelsea reliably pulls out all the stops with lavish floral installations during Flower Show Week. Kick off your day with an elegant breakfast or round it off with a celebratory dinner under the stars in the area’s most enviable outside eating area.
