RHS Chelsea Flower Show (2024)

FAQs

Is the RHS Chelsea Flower Show worth it? ›

Seeing these beautiful flowers brought us much joy. I guess it depends which day you go, ie crowds, weather, plants at their peak, but we were fortunate and had good weather and it was not too crowded. We went on the Press Day and it was well worth joining the RHS to get good tickets. It also saved us waiting in line.

It's my first childfree day out with my husband for over two years.... Some people dress like it's Ascot, but you will be fine in anything from jeans and a t-shirt upwards. Comfy shoes are a must though, there's a heck of a lot of walking and not all that many places to sit unless you are actually eating.

How does the judging process work? We have a criteria sheet and the exhibits are judged on three criteria: “Plants, Overall Impression and Endeavour”, each counting for a third of the overall score.

The crowds around the main show gardens are large but with a little patience it is possible to get a good view of each garden. The Great Pavilion is also crowded but the crowds move along at a pace so that the exhibits can be properly viewed.

Depending on how much you want to see and how much walking around you want to do, spending a full day at the Chelsea Flower Show is advisable. To beat the crowds, try getting to the show bright and early (right when it opens) as it can get really busy in the afternoon, especially at the outdoor garden displays.

There is so much to see and do at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, that we'd recommend leaving enough time to enjoy it all. Five hours should be enough time for you to peruse all of the gardens and exhibits, but your ticket will last all day, so feel free to explore it at a leisurely place.

If you're wondering what to wear to the Chelsea Flower Show for women, day dresses, skirts or trouser suits are all good choices. For sunnier weather, choose a floaty day dress donned with floral prints or a maxi or midi skirt in a bright, summery hue with a breezy blouse to keep you cool.

Camera. Whether it's your first time, last time or hundredth time, the Chelsea Flower Show is a delight for the eyes. A camera allows you to capture your best moments at the show and to also keep a picture diary of all your favourite plants.

Arrive early - before the gates open at 8 am - and make a beeline for your 'must see' gardens or exhibits before a crowd develops. The Great Pavilion is often quieter first thing when everyone rushes to see the show gardens.

Silver-gilt is an extra class of medal in between silver and gold that gives the Flower Show panel an extra way to recognise gardens in certain specific categories. Confusingly, bronze winners do not actually win a physical medal, but winners in the other three classes do.

What happens to displays after Chelsea Flower Show? ›

Following the Chelsea Flower Show, the garden will be permanently relocated to Samaritans branches across the UK, including in Cornwall. In addition, any build materials not able to be repurposed will re-enter the recycling process from where they were originally sourced.

How much are Chelsea Flower Show tickets 2024? Chelsea Flower show tickets range in price depending on whether you are an RHS member or not. While the regular half day tickets are now sold out, you can still purchase full day tickets for the show with prices from £92.85 for non-members.

2024 Flower of the Year: Peony

The flower delivery service named the graceful peony as its flower of the year. Chosen for its beauty and significance, the fragrant peony is often included in bridal bouquets and is a popular choice among gift givers.

The gold medal-winning online plant nursery Crocus host their own Chelsea sell-off the week after the show finishes. Some gardens are transplanted in their entirety, many ending up in public spaces, such as The Hesco Leeds City Council Garden which is now in one of Leeds' major parks.

Each day of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show offers guests the chance to experience all of the exhibitions, meaning that there isn't really a 'best day' to attend. However, some guests choose to attend the event earlier in the week as this is when the displays look freshest.

A floral print or a solid colour dress can both work well, and if that's not to your fancy, a trouser suit is another popular choice. Choose the right footwear: You'll want to wear shoes that are comfortable and appropriate for the event. Depending on the occasion, you can wear sandals, loafers, or ballet flats.