What to Expect at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is often described as the world’s most prestigious horticultural event – and with good reason. Held annually over five days in the grounds of the historic Royal Hospital Chelsea, it’s a celebration of cutting-edge garden design, planting, and outdoor living.

Organised by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), Chelsea is the standout floral event in the British social calendar, celebrated for its world-class garden design, floral displays, and creative outdoor inspiration. It attracts everyone from passionate gardeners and landscape designers to celebrities, the media, and even the Royal Family, who traditionally visit on the opening day. The show also receives extensive coverage on BBC television, with presenters like Monty Don and Sophie Raworth bringing the latest highlights and behind-the-scenes stories to viewers at home.

Be Prepared for Crowds

One of the first things you'll notice is the sheer number of people. It's busy, and at times, things move slowly. To make the most of your visit, be prepared for the crowds and practice a bit of patience. Arriving early can help you avoid the busiest times and give you a head start on exploring the gardens.

Plan Your Visit

With so much to see, it's essential to have a plan. Grab a show guide (costs £17, but worth it to make the most of the show) as soon as you enter and prioritise the exhibits you want to visit. The Chelsea Flower Show spans several days, so if you can, plan multiple visits to see different parts of the show each time. Also, make a mental note of where the toilets are located – they will come in handy. Queues can be long, especially for the ladies, so if you see an opportunity to go, take it.

Comfort is Key

Leave the heels at home and wear comfortable shoes. Despite the Chelsea Flower Show being one of the smaller grounds in terms of its area, you'll be on your feet a lot, and it can feel like playing musical chairs with thousands of people and only a handful of seats available. Seating can be tricky to find, especially during peak times. A picnic blanket or foldable chair gives you the freedom to rest when and where you like - many seasoned visitors come prepared! Dressing in layers is also a good idea, as the weather can be breezy near the Thames.

Food and Refreshments

While the food at the show is delicious, it is expensive. Don't be shy about bringing your own packed lunch; many people do! Having your own snacks and a bottle of water will keep you energized throughout the day. It's always a good idea to stay hydrated and take breaks to enjoy your surroundings. Food and drink stalls also tend to have long cues - last year I queued for over 20 minutes for a Pimms, but I still say it was worth it!

And while we’re talking about refreshments, at one point or another you’ll want to sit down and tackle the load of your feet, but seating is limited. I say limited, there are plenty of seats around, it’s just that they are often occupied. If you can pack a picnic blanket it will give you more options. Some even bring their own foldable chairs or foldable walking chairs

Engage with Exhibitors

One of the best parts of the Chelsea Flower Show is the opportunity to engage with the exhibitors and designers. Don't be shy about taking a leaflet and having a chat. You'll gain so much more from the experience by talking to the experts and learning about the inspiration and stories behind the exhibits. All show gardens and exhibits have the designer and volunteers lingering around talking to the crowd. Don't be shy to take a leaflet and have a chat, you get so much from speaking to them directly, and they will help uncover and deepen your understanding of the exhibits and the meaning behind them. Everyone is friendly, knowledgeable and happy to share a thing or two, so don’t be shy to say hi - even if you’re a gardening novice.

Take Notes and Photos

With so much inspiration around, you'll want to document your visit. Take notes and plenty of photos, but be respectful of the exhibit rules regarding photography. This will help you remember ideas and inspirations for your own garden projects.

Early Bird Advantage

Arriving early has its perks. You'll avoid some of the crowds and have a more relaxed experience exploring the exhibits. Plus, it's a great time to take photos before the pathways get too crowded.

Dress Code and Weather

The dress code is smart-casual, with a bonus for wearing something floral. Many women wear summer dresses with floral prints, while men often opt for trousers with a floral shirt or t-shirt, depending on the weather. Comfortable shoes are a must, from trainers to plimsolls - as long as it’s comfy it goes. Also, dress appropriately for the weather, considering the breezy conditions near the Thames.