The RHS Chelsea Flower Show stands as a notable event on the royal family’s summer agenda, and the initial royal attendees have been announced.
While the world-renowned garden flower show is set to officially open to the public on May 21st, it is customary for members of the royal family to attend the preview on the preceding evening.
The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester are confirmed to be among the royal guests at the gala preview, taking place at the Royal Hospital Chelsea on May 20th, as per the royal diary. The Duke, who is a cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II, along with his wife, Birgitte, are regular attendees of the annual show.
It remains unconfirmed whether the King and Queen will attend. Charles, currently undergoing cancer treatment, has scaled back his public engagements. His most recent notable appearance was on Easter Sunday, attending church with his wife, Camilla, and a smaller group of royals, including his siblings – Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward.
The Chelsea Flower Show boasts a longstanding association with the royal family. Queen Elizabeth II served as patron of the Royal Horticultural Society throughout her 70-year reign. Her last visit to the show was in May 2022, merely four months before her passing at the age of 96.
The royals have demonstrated a keen interest in gardening over the years, with several members actively participating in the show. During his tenure as the Prince of Wales, Charles contributed to the design of two show gardens – a Carpet Garden in 2001 and a Healing Garden in 2002, which showcased plants and trees with medicinal properties.
In 2009, Charles received the RHS Victoria Medal of Honour in recognition of his dedication to plants, sustainable gardening, and environmental conservation. Prince Harry commissioned gardens to support his charity Sentebale in both 2013 and 2015. Additionally, the Princess of Wales contributed to the design of the child-friendly Back to Nature garden in 2019.
Kate brought her children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, to the Chelsea Flower Show to enjoy the garden before its official opening that year. Last year, the Princess joined children at the inaugural children’s picnic at the show, which is expected to become an annual tradition.
It remains uncertain whether Kate will attend the Chelsea Flower Show as she undergoes preventive chemotherapy following her cancer diagnosis.
Throughout the years, members of the King’s extended family, such as his niece Princess Beatrice and her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, have taken pleasure in exploring the displays at this horticultural event.
Originally known as the Great Spring Show, the RHS organized its inaugural event in Kensington in 1862, with Queen Victoria counted among its frequent visitors during its initial years.
Originally known as the Great Spring Show, the RHS organized its inaugural event in Kensington in 1862, with Queen Victoria counted among its frequent visitors during its initial years.
