RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show 2017

This week the annual RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show kicks off, so I spent my Monday morning flitting about the grounds of this fabulous Royal Palace scoping out what’s in store for all those avid flower show fans. I normally head to Chelsea Flower Show (you can read past posts on that here), but this year schedules didn’t quite work so I opted to check out this prestigious sister show instead.

The thing I love about heading to a flower show is that it’s not all about having to know your flora and fauna. Yes, there is an inordinate amount of expert info and advice if you are after that kind of thing, but you can also enjoy a stroll around the show for a pile of other things too. The RHS Kitchen garden is a great place to start to find out about all things edible if you fancy growing your own. There’s also the amazing butterfly dome which I defy you not to find uplifting if you get the chance to while away a delightful half hour watching the butterflies dance around you.

There are show gardens and a festival of roses marquee which lures you in with its delicious heady aroma of blooms.

Whilst I was there it was busy with local community school children who were particularly taken with the Gardens for a Changing World. As well as the scarecrow competition and the odd giant bug.

There are some great talks and celebrity appearances which are worth a snoop…

There’s also tons of shopping opportunities, trade stands with sculptors and artists in residence and loads of intriguing foodie stands to road test along with lots of picnic spots to make use of.

A slightly smaller version of its more famous sibling Chelsea, the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show packs no less of a punch. Set in the fab grounds with super easy access and egress (parking was a delight if you are heading there this week), it’s definitely worth a visit if you have a yen for anything garden, floral or outdoor living orientated. I certainly picked up some great ideas for new plants and outdoor decor. The show opens Tuesday 4th July and runs through until Sunday 9th July. You can find more about timings and ticketing from the RHS website here.