We were thrilled to attend the Chelsea Flower Show for the first time in 2024. As a company dedicated to helping homes make a great first impression with our high-quality slate and granite house signs, Chelsea was the perfect showcase of how thoughtful design can elevate outdoor spaces. It was a visual feast that left us feeling inspired for the year ahead.
Being part of such a prestigious show gave us a front-row seat to the breathtaking garden designs, creative displays, and the buzz of horticultural excellence that makes Chelsea so special. It was inspiring – and, at times, a little overwhelming – especially for a first-time exhibitor and visitor.
Now, as we look ahead to the 2025 show, we’re even more excited. This year, we’re proudly supporting Fenton Gardens and their stunning C6 garden, a design built around sustainability, carbon sequestration, and water recycling. We’ll also have some of our own work on display within the garden, and we can’t wait to see it all come together.
With the benefit of last year’s experience, we’ve pulled together this handy guide for anyone attending the Chelsea Flower Show for the first time. Whether you’re a seasoned garden enthusiast or simply curious about the event, these tips and insights will help you make the most of your visit – and avoid some easy to make mistakes as a first-timer!
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.
 
The Atmosphere & Highlights
Stepping into the Chelsea Flower Show feels like joining a bustling hub of creativity and passion. Thousands of visitors flock through the gates each day, creating an exciting and lively atmosphere. There’s a wonderful sense of shared enthusiasm for gardens and outdoor spaces, and it’s not just the show gardens which provide a visual feast, every corner of the grounds offers something new to discover.
The Show Gardens are undoubtedly the stars of the event. These large-scale, meticulously designed spaces push the boundaries of creativity, combining plants, materials, and structures in ways that often explore themes like sustainability, biodiversity, and mental wellbeing. Alongside them, Artisan Gardens offer a more intimate experience, demonstrating how smaller spaces can be transformed into something truly special.
For plant lovers, The Great Pavilion is a must-see. This iconic structure is home to growers and nurseries from across the UK and beyond. Expect a dazzling display of flowers, rare plants, and expert advice – it’s the perfect place to pick up inspiration or learn more about the latest horticultural trends.
From the carefully curated gardens to the bustling shopping avenues offering everything from garden tools to artisan outdoor décor, Chelsea is a truly immersive experience from the moment you arrive.
Travelling to the Chelsea Flower Show
Getting to the Chelsea Flower Show is straightforward, with several public transport and driving options available - though it’s worth planning ahead, especially during peak hours.
You can download the map of the Chelsea Flower Show show ground and surrounding areas below.
Download MapThe closest tube station is Sloane Square, just a 10–15 minute walk from the showground. It’s on the District and Circle Lines, making it a convenient option for most visitors.The walk is well signposted, but if in doubt, follow the crowd!
From Sloane Square, you’ll likely notice a buzz of activity: people in floral prints, plenty of taxis, and even rickshaws blaring music, waiting to give you a lift. These quirky rickshaw rides cost around £15+, but can be a fun and memorable (if slightly touristy) way to start your visit.
If you're coming by train, London Victoria Station is your best bet. It's just a short taxi ride or a pleasant stroll away.
Several buses stop near the showground:
- closest to the gates: 11, 137, 211, 360, 170, 44, and 452.
- for Sloane Square: 19, 22, 319, and C1.
Note: during show week, the 360 bus does not stop at the Bull Ring Gate (bus stop 'CH') due to a temporary suspension.
If you’re driving, parking is available at Battersea Park and must be pre-booked with your tickets. It costs £49 and includes access to a shuttle bus running directly to the Bull Ring Gate of the show ground.
- Shuttle buses run Tuesday to Friday from 7am – 7:30pm, and until 6pm on Saturday.
- Accessible transport options are available for those who need them.
- Battersea Park is outside the Congestion Zone but inside the ULEZ Zone.
Set your sat nav to SW11 4BY to head directly to the Rosery Gate entrance of Battersea Park.
Taxis are plentiful around the show ground - particularly near Chelsea Embankment and Royal Hospital Road - but expect delays during busy periods. If you're arriving or leaving during peak times, it may be quicker to walk a few minutes away from the gates before hailing a cab.