The King and Queen, joined by other Royal Family members, arrived at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Chelsea Flower Show on May 20. They were warmly welcomed by Keith Weed, President of the RHS. The event runs until May 24 and showcases the best in horticulture from around the world.
A Century-Old Tradition of Excellence
Founded in 1913 at the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London, the Chelsea Flower Show has grown into a global horticultural event. It started with 244 exhibitors and now features over 400 exhibits, attracting 145,000 visitors annually.
Gardens Celebrating Dogs and Community
Their Majesties visited the RHS and BBC Radio 2 Dog Garden, designed by Monty Don. The garden offers grassy areas and shaded spots for dogs. Brick paths are engraved with names of dogs owned by Radio 2 presenters, RHS ambassadors, and Monty Don’s dog, Ned. The Queen’s adopted Jack Russell Terrier, Bluebell, her new puppy Moley, and the late Beth, along with the King’s dog Snuff, also have their names featured. After the show, the garden will be relocated to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, where the Queen is Patron.
Supporting Youth and Resilience
The King toured The King’s Trust Garden: Seeding Success, designed by Joe Perkins and supported by Project Giving Back. This garden symbolizes the strength of over one million young people helped by The King’s Trust since 1976. Its design includes screen-printed glass panels representing seed dispersal and basalt paths leading to a quiet space. Post-show, the garden will be moved to Uxbridge College in West London, where it will be maintained by students and the local community.
Celebrating British Wildlife and Heritage
The King also visited The Wildlife Trusts’ British Rainforest Garden, created by Zoe Claymore. This garden reflects the rare wet woodlands that once covered Britain’s west coast. It features a raised wooden walkway, flowing water, birch trees, moss, ferns, and foxgloves. The garden honors The Wildlife Trusts’ 100-year mission to restore these habitats.
Meanwhile, the Queen explored The London Square Chelsea Pensioners Garden, designed by Dave Green. Located at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, the garden offers a peaceful space for socializing and reflection. Its design honors the 300-year history of the Chelsea Pensioners, with features inspired by their stories and the hospital’s architecture.
Gardens Promoting Second Chances and Biodiversity
The Queen also toured The Glasshouse Garden, designed by Jo Thompson. This garden symbolizes hope and renewal for women nearing the end of prison sentences through horticultural training and support. It features a translucent pavilion, colorful flowers, and a winding water rill leading to a tranquil pool.
Their Majesties concluded their visit at the Bees for Development balcony garden, designed by Jenny Rafferty. Inspired by African and English beekeeping traditions, this small urban garden supports pollinators and biodiversity. Vibrant plants provide food for bees year-round. The Queen has been Patron of Bees for Development since 2020.
