Advice from gardening experts and show veterans, with behind the scenes tips on how to have the best day out at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, 19 - 23 May 2026
The Show Guide is available to buy with your ticket and will be delivered before the show, so you can familiarise yourself with what you want to see, where everything is and plan a route and itinerary. This should ensure you allow yourself enough time to see everything. Overseas visitors can collect the Guide at the Show
RHS Chelsea is a hugely popular event and can get busy, so it’s worth considering going to see the gardens at quieter times, such as after 3pm, or early in the morning i,f you want to avoid peak crowds
Saturday tends to be the busiest day, and if you are an RHS Member, Tuesday and Wednesday are reserved for Members
“It takes around 5-7 hours to see all the main Show Gardens, Great Pavilion and floral displays. However, you could easily spend a full week there and still not see everything!â€
There’s no dress code at RHS Chelsea, but it’s a great opportunity to show off your summer wardrobe. Keep in mind these tips from RHS Chelsea Show Manager Gemma Lake for a stylish but comfortable day.
Wear sturdy shoes. There can be a lot of walking around the show and to or from public transport
Prepare for the weather – both sunshine and rain. A light waterproof is easier to manage than an umbrella if it rains and layers are easier to peel off and carry when the sun comes out
Take sunglasses, for both the look and the glare protection
“Make the most of the expertise of the growers in the Great Pavilion to ask about your favourite plants. You don’t often get access to such specialist knowledge, and they love to share their adviceâ€
Before, or after the Show, take a look around which runs at the same time. The floral creations are quite remarkable and really add to the day.
Remember to book early – catering and Show tickets sell fast, so plan ahead. RHS Members get the chance to buy tickets before everyone else, plus they get a discount.
RHS Chelsea Flower Show runs for more than just one day. Watch throughout the week, keep up with Show news updates, and don’t forget to have your say in the People’s Choice Vote.
“Have your camera or phone on hand and fully charged to take photos of design inspiration you want to try in your garden. Don’t forget to take photos of plant labels to help identify all those beautiful plants when you get home.â€
As well as the Show Guide, there’s information about everything at the show on the RHS website. Take a look at the show gardens, plants, designers and messages behind the gardens. There are also comprehensive exhibitor listings and information about food and drink – including menus
Keep an eye on the news feed that runs up to and throughout the show
The RHS Grow app is a great resource for making lists of plants from the show, along with lots of exclusive content
“Take advantage of special offers. Many of the tradestands and nurseries offer special deals on purchases made at the show. It’s worth noting that very few plants are sold at the show because of strict space limitations, so don’t take a trolley unless it’s Saturday when some plants are sold off.â€
Everything you need to know about the show from how to get here to facilities
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