by Judy Bereza, Guest Blogger 

     We all have “Bucket Lists”.  At the top of my list the last few years has been the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.  Ever since a friend treated me to a slide show of her visit to the show and waxed almost poetic, I have been yearning to attend.  Luckily, my husband was equally enthusiastic, so we investigated online and settled on Huron Tours and Travel.  Included in this one week in London tour, heavy on all things to do with gardens, was a membership to the Royal Horticultural Society with a full day at the show open only to members.

RHS Chelsea Flower Show History

First, a bit of history.  The show began in 1862, and remains the most prestigious flower show in the world.  All tickets are sold in advance with limits on attendance each day, the total for all five days set at around 160,000 visitors.  

The flower show is held on the grounds of the Royal Chelsea Hospital, encompassing 11 acres.  The grassy, open field is transformed starting19 days before the show.  The result is stunning. 

Show Gardens

 There were eleven “Show Gardens”.  These gardens, sponsored by major corporations, valued between $200,000 and $1,000,000, and designed by the world’s leading garden designers were judged at the show.  Additionally, there were fifteen “ArtisanGardens”, smaller gardens, each incorporating elements of master craftsmen. 

The Great Pavilion

 At the center of the show was a monumental modular structure, called “The Great Pavilion”.  Inside this vast space, were jaw dropping displays and gardens from individual growers. The show also featured individual vendors with exquisite booths.  As an example, think “Wedgwood”.  It featured a bar with complimentary assorted teas served on floral themed Wedgwood china with the world’s biggest flower chandelier suspended overhead. 

Add to all of this 12 restaurants – several full service – cocktail and coffee bars, ethnic pop up food everywhere, a huge outdoor concert venue with musical performances throughout the afternoon and evening, and visual feasts everywhere, and there is no question that there is nothing else like it in the world. 

 Maybe your “Bucket List” needs another addition….

Judy Bereza is a retired interior designer/kitchen expert, constant walker and “Nana” to five adorable grand children. With friends she has hiked in Wales, Cornwall, Switzerland, Smokey Mountain National Park, Ireland and California.

Occasionally she veers off the trail to explore a different kind of travel adventure that includes her husband..