22nd August 2008
RHS Chelsea Flower Show
This famous show is well known for it's garden displays and floral arrangements, but also introduces us to the latest trends in design, the newest plants and gardening products. There are even seminars hosted by leading horticulturalists which can be fascinating, make sure to check the line-up ahead of buying tickets if you want to see someone in particular. The displays by the hundreds of exhibitors at the show are spectacular and it's well worth the trip. You can get a variety of tickets to suit every budget, and you may even end up on television as the entire show is covered by the BBC.
It's usually best to arrive early (the show usually opens at 8am) to avoid the crowds, and definitely buy a show guide so you can find out what is happening and see the things that interest you. You can get around the entire show in a day, but it is exhausting work.
There are numerous restaurants operated at the show, although some of the more popular get extremely busy. You can always opt to bring your own picnic to save you from queuing. On the plus side though, you are never far from a champagne or pimms bar which is wonderful especially on a warm sunny day.
The show has a wonderful atmosphere, there is so much to see, just remember to bring a big bag for those all important gardening products that you can buy on your way around.