Getting ready for 100 years of the Royal Chelsea Flower Show

By Stephen Merchant


Can you believe it's that time of year again, despite the fact that we have yet to have a proper summer's day? In fact, we are still watching news' reports about the snow and ice crusading over our beautiful Shropshire countryside and its mid-May! However, come rain or shine, Chelsea always know how to put on a good event and that isn't about to grind to a halt over a bit of the old white stuff! What's more, 2013 is the official centenary of the launch of the Royal Chelsea Flower Display so, this year more than ever, the show simply must go on.

Chelsea itself is an extremely affluent area, close to the capital and home to some of the richest people in the country. It's undeniably a tourist hotspot (even for the locals) because of its geographical situation and also its easy, 24 hour transport links. There is a beautiful choice of hotels, guest houses and top notch restaurants all within walking distance from the centre, as well a delightful array of boutique-style home ware, fashion and gift shops. Here you can find Royal history in abundance. Furthermore, it wouldn't be a shock if you bumped into our very own gorgeous Prince Harry whilst on your travels; it is one of his favourite hangouts of late. And, if cavorting with the Windsor's is top on your list, we have yet another reason for you to visit Chelsea Flower Show. Every year several members of the Royal family attend a preview of the event as part of the royal patronage to the RHS.

Each summer (I'll say that loosely), 157,000 visitors come to see the show over its five day period (a number limited to its 11 acre ground). There are several categories to enter, of which four grades are presented; Gold, Silver-Gilt, Silver and Bronze. What's more, if you can't get down to the action, the whole event is comprehensively covered by the BBC for primetime television viewing.

For me personally, Chelsea Flower Show is all about the designer gardens. I've seen amazing creations over the years from countless exhibitors, but my much-loved of all time has to be the incredibly stylish gardens commissioned by the French champagne firm, Laurent Perrier. As well as the 'magnificent', the smaller, more homely gardens are also a firm favourite with the crowds, not forgetting the wacky features from various zany inventors to add a little adventure to the mix. James May's plasticine garden has to be the winner for me when it comes to the weird and wonderful what a mad creation that was!

And so here we arrive at our 100 year anniversary of the Chelsea Flower Show as it is today. What a milestone! Whoever would have thought it! I also wonder what this year's special show has in store for us. After all, we Brits do love a good celebration. On a final note, and to revel in the centenary of probably the most famous flower show in the world, Executive Chef Jeremy Brown will be incorporating an array of edible flowers into his daily Market Menu at Home House of Portman Square, London this month. If you are a member then don't forget to make a reservation as tables are limited.




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