As the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival 2024 prepares to grace the historic grounds of Hampton Court Palace from July 2nd to 7th, anticipation builds for a showcase of gardens that celebrate anniversaries, draw inspiration from international landscapes, and promote biodiversity.
One notable anniversary being honoured at this year's festival is the 60th anniversary of RHS Britain in Bloom, the UK’s largest community gardening competition.
In tribute, the Gardening for People and Planet garden, designed by father and son duo Jon and James Wheatley, reflects on the journey of Bloom and emphasises the positive impact of gardening on both wellbeing and the environment. Inspired by The Friendship Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, this garden will feature native and British-grown plants alongside beehives to enhance biodiversity.
Another anniversary taking centre stage is the 25th anniversary of Disney’s The Lion King in the West End. Garden designer Juliet Sargeant draws inspiration from the vibrant colours and rich landscapes of the award-winning production of The Lion King Anniversary Garden. With dusty red soil and resilient grasses, this garden captures the essence of the African savannah.
International influences abound, with gardens like The Climate-Forward Garden by Melanie Hick, which reimagines a UK front garden with inspiration from the Australian bush. The Mediterraneo Garden by Katerina Kantalis evokes the gardening traditions of Greece, while Nilufer Danis’ The Way of Saint James seeks to capture the mystical forests of Galicia, Spain.
Closer to home, Oliver Bond's Bond Landscape Design: Match Point incorporates a tennis court and nectar-rich plants to support biodiversity. Tim Jennings' A Four Seasons Sanctuary features a pond to attract wildlife, and Giada Francois’ The Garden of Renewal boasts naturalistic planting.
Natalie Gearing, manager of the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, expresses excitement over the diverse array of ideas showcased this year. From international influences to commemorations of beloved institutions, there is something to inspire every gardener, regardless of style or garden size.
In addition to the stunning gardens, festival-goers can explore the Floral Marquee and Festival of Roses, indulge in a mass planting installation, and experience the playful RHS Adventure Within Garden designed by Freddie Strickland. Expert advice is available at the How To and Get Growing Festival Stages, and the RHS Allotment returns with plots built by local community groups.
The RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival promises a feast for the senses and a wealth of inspiration for garden enthusiasts. Tickets are available online, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and creativity of this renowned event.
Since 1804, the RHS has flourished as the UK's premier gardening charity, reaching millions. Evolving continually, recent milestones include RHS Garden Bridgewater and RHS Hilltop for Gardening Science. Committed to being net positive by 2030, inclusivity and community representation are paramount.
Our five gardens annually host three million visitors, showcasing 34,000 plant varieties. Events like the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and Britain in Bloom extend gardening's joys. Our core mission remains unwavering: to advance horticultural science, art, and practice while nurturing a passion for gardening and its transformative benefits.
The venue is Hampton Court Palace, Surrey, KT8 9AU, with dates set for July 2nd to 7th, 2024. Opening times vary: on July 2nd and 3rd, it's open from 10 am to 6.30 pm for RHS members, and from July 4th to 6th, it's open to all from 10 am to 6.30 pm. The final day, July 7th, is open from 10 am to 5.30 pm. Tickets can be purchased at www.rhs.org.uk/hamptoncourt.
Bhanu Attri addresses fellow cadets and staff in BRNC's chapel (Photo: Royal Navy)
