The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is set to return from Tuesday, May 19 to Saturday, May 23, 2026, once again transforming the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea into one of the world's most prestigious horticultural showcases. Organized by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), this annual event has been held since 1913, with cancellations only during the two World Wars and in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Key Dates and Times
The show runs across five days with varying closing times:
- Tuesday, May 19 – 8am to 8pm
- Wednesday, May 20 – 8am to 8pm
- Thursday, May 21 – 8am to 8pm
- Friday, May 22 – 8am to 10pm
- Saturday, May 23 – 8am to 5.30pm
Location and Getting There
The event takes place at the Royal Hospital Chelsea in west London, a 66-acre site on Royal Hospital Road, home to the Chelsea Pensioners. The full address is Royal Hospital Road, London SW3 4SR. The nearest Tube station is Sloane Square, served by the Circle and District lines, approximately a 10-minute walk away. Shuttle buses also run from Victoria Station and Battersea Park during busy periods. Driving is possible but parking is limited and must usually be pre-booked.
Tickets
Tickets are sold via the AXS ticketing website. Early days are restricted to RHS members, while later days open to the public. Member tickets are generally priced lower, while public admission starts at a higher rate. Due to high demand, tickets often sell out well in advance, so early booking is recommended.
What to Expect in 2026
Visitors can anticipate a strong focus on garden design excellence, with Show Gardens of all sizes along Main Avenue and Royal Hospital Way. These are widely regarded as some of the finest examples of contemporary garden design, combining striking planting schemes with innovative landscaping. A key feature this year is the continued emphasis on plant-led gardens, particularly in the "All About Plants" category, where designers focus on unusual and specialist planting rather than heavy hard landscaping.
There is also a growing spotlight on smaller urban garden solutions through Balcony and Container Gardens, which explore how limited spaces can be transformed into functional green areas. These designs often address real urban challenges such as flooding, pollution, and noise. A headline-grabbing installation includes a painted garden gnome linked to David Beckham, commissioned as part of a Royal-themed creative contribution involving King Charles.
Awards and Judging
The RHS awards medals across multiple categories, including Gold, Silver-Gilt, Silver, and Bronze. Additional honours include Best Show Garden and Best Construction. The RHS People's Choice Award is voted for by visitors later in the week and announced towards the end of the show.
Food and Facilities
Visitors can bring picnics, but a wide range of food is available on site, including street food stalls, cafés, and formal dining experiences such as afternoon tea. Champagne bars and pop-up restaurants are also featured, reflecting the event's status as both a horticultural and social occasion.
Visitor Tips
There is no official dress code, but most visitors opt for smart-casual clothing. Comfortable footwear is strongly recommended due to extensive walking on grass and gravel paths. Weather in May can vary, so checking the forecast in advance is sensible.
