Judy

We are planning travel for 2012 and would love to attend the Chelsea Flower Show. I can see that last year and this year it is during the last full week of May.

Can anyone tell me if this is always when it is held or does it vary from year to year? Thanks.

PatrickLondon

A quick Google suggests that in 2012, it will be held 22-30 May - but you could always ask the RHS direct:

http://www.rhs.org.uk/About-Us/Contact-us

Judy

Thanks, PatrickLondon, I did that a few days ago. Perhaps they are too busy prepping for this year's show to respond! Or I just haven't given them enough time to do so....I realize that this is not urgent and I may still get a response.

flanneruk

The usual reminder that, if Chelsea (the real one: not the football club of the same name) is important to you, you MUST understand how to get tickets - and book them from home as soon as they come on sale.

The RHS site explains how this works.

Don't underestimate this. Chelsea attracts a bigger attendance than any football match - and probably disappoints more people by not being able to accommodate them

flanneruk

The usual reminder that, if Chelsea (the real one: not the football club of the same name) is important to you, you MUST understand how to get tickets - and book them from home as soon as they come on sale.

The RHS site explains how this works.

Don't underestimate this. Chelsea attracts a bigger attendance than any football match - and probably disappoints more people by not being able to accommodate them

Judy

Thanks, flanneruk, that is why we are attempting to plan ahead. A few couples from our local garden club are discussing a trip to the show and we'd like to work on logistics well in advance.

willowjane

We went last year - it was one of the greatest memories from our trip. There was no problem ordering the tickets on-line and having them delivered. I didn't do the "upgrade" by joining the club to get to go a day early. The crowds really weren't too bad for us, but it might be important to you. It was just a wonderful day with my Mom! I can't recommend it enough if you love gardening.

Judy

Willowjane, a group of us just went to the Philadelphia Flower Show and decided we need to see the Chelsea Flower Show. If we can determine the dates and book apartments early, we'd like to do so.

janisj

If the crowds weren't bad that was very unusual. Normally it is so crowded it is difficult to even get close to the competition gardens.

My last time was in 2009 -- and the on-site restaurants even ran out of food.

Attending on a member day, if at all possible, is easier.

willowjane

Judy,
I am going to make sure we go to the Philadelphia SHow - it looked so beautiful. I really would encourage you all to go to Chelsea. I kept thinking that I must be getting ripped off that I was getting the tickets to "the show", but it all worked out beautifully! The crowds were not bad, but maybe i don't know what others compare the crowds against....there was never a moment that we couldn't get to the gardens or get food and beverage. It reminded me of a big Southern Fair.

PatrickLondon

I've never known it not to be in that week; but next summer is going to be a bit busy with special events. On the other hand, and for that same reason, if the RHS want to book in the Queen, they'll need to get their dates in early, which rather argues for not mucking about with tradition.

Judy

Thanks,everyone. I have an apartment in mind and I'm afraid if I wait until June to book it, it may not be available.
I think I'll try another e-mail sent from my computer instead of from their website next week.