Photo credit: © Lucy Sutton-Long
Chelsea is the place for any anthophile to be during May when it hosts both the Chelsea Flower Show and Chelsea in Bloom.
Chelsea Flower Show
Established by the Royal Horticultural Society in 1862, the Chelsea Flower Show is one of the world’s largest and most popular gardening events. Held in the grounds of the Royal Hospital since 1912, it presents some of the most innovative garden designs and is where new plant varieties are launched.
A highlight of this year’s event is The Chelsea Pensioners Garden. Sponsored by London Square and designed by Dave Green with connection and relaxation as key inspirations, it will be relocated to the Prince of Wales Court in the grounds of the Royal Hospital after the Show. Also be sure to visit The King’s Trust Garden: Seeding Success; inspired by plants growing in volcanic locations, it explores how nature can restore and thrive. The RHS explains that a comparison can be made between growth and optimism in nature and in young people. The garden will be moved to Uxbridge College, West London after the event where it will be enjoyed and gardened by both The King’s Trust programme students and the local community.
There is a RHS shop and trade stands aplenty so you are sure to find a part of Chelsea to take home with you!
This year’s show runs from 20 until 24 May and tickets are now on sale.
Chelsea in Bloom
Run in collaboration with the RHS and Cadogan and timed to coincide with the Flower Show is Chelsea in Bloom (running from 19 until 25 May). The free annual event, now in its 20th year, sees the streets, squares and shopfronts of Chelsea transformed with the most beautiful and elaborate floral displays. This year’s theme is Flowers in Fashion, with inspiration taken from fashion designers, iconic designs and creative London. Do make sure you take a look if you’re in the area!
Flowers – Flora in Contemporary Art & Culture at the Saatchi Gallery
If your London stay is between now and the start of May, you may like to see Flowers – Flora in Contemporary Art & Culture at the Saatchi Gallery which is running until 5 May. Covering two floors and nine exhibition rooms, and displaying over 500 original works by emerging artists, the show explores the use and symbolism of flora in the history of the arts and the ongoing influence.
Getting there
The nearest underground station is Sloane Square on the District and Circle lines. If you would like to walk there, it’s a 1.3 mile route through Belgravia which has a fantastic selection of boutique shops and good restaurants.
Also in the area
Sloane Square
Chelsea Physic Garden
Chelsea Pensioners Museum