Whilst Kew Gardens is London’s most renowned botanical garden, Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Wisley in Surrey, also has as much prestige in a beautiful setting, a spectacular glasshouse and an easy distance from West London. With much to offer including annual events such as flower shows and stunning gardens to enjoy, here’s why I think RHS Wisley is this summer’s perfect family day out.
Amongst other RHS gardens, Wisley is the RHS’ flagship in part due to its close proximity to London yet being far enough away for people to escape the bustling nature of the city. Opening in 1906, and attracting 6000 visitors in its first year, this 240 acres garden has risen exponentially to having approximately 1 million visitors a year currently!
One highlight feature is certainly the expert maintenance of the gardens, making them hugely attractive during every season. The various zones within the gardens, showcasing a range of plants, also makes the garden diverse, and there’s something unique to view everywhere you walk; for example, currently, the Camassia meadows and Heather landscape (which has over 1000 different heather cultivars) are on display.
The glasshouse, located in the centre of the garden has a modern feel and is climatic according to the plants inside. There is an area with orchids on display and a spectacular waterfall for those important selfies to be taken.
A particular favourite for many avid botanists and causal walkers, is the Hilltop which boasts ‘unparalleled, panaromic views across our flagship garden’ according to RHS Wisley’s website. Being Wisley’s most recent addition, only opening in June 2021, the Hilltop also named ‘the home of gardening science’, hosts informative talks about the horticultural work of the RHS as well as containing interactive displays for visitors to learn about the importance of gardening and giving guidance on how to plant gardens.
The outstanding events, both interesting and enjoyable, are also a huge attraction for Wisley. I recently had the opportunity to see the Daffodils’ exhibition which took place on 9-10 April. Despite not being a flower fanatic myself, the exhibition, which was in fact a daffodil competition between botanists to curate and perfect the daffodil, was fascinating; the presentation and the range of different daffodils on show made the exhibition even more enticing.
Including many exciting events for children, the gardens host a wide range of other events including shows, talks from expert speakers and interactive events; One event that I’m certain will catch the eye of many is the Bonsai show on the 4-5 May, showcasing numerous and various bonsai trees which have been specially cared for by expert botanists.
Overall, RHS Wisley clearly has much to offer; from events for all ages, to outside gardens designed with precision to highlight the beauty of flowers. Wisley enables visitors, both those who are avid botanists and others who visit solely to enjoy an experience in nature, to learn so much more about our natural world or simply to enjoy the peace and quiet of escaping London.
To find about more about what is on offer at RHS Wisley visit:
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