The Royal Horticultural Society has launched a new flower show at the Sandringham Estate, the Royal Family’s private estate in Norfolk. The RHS Sandringham Flower Show takes place from Wednesday 22 to Saturday 25 July and features show gardens, plants for sale, and places to eat and drink.
The show is set against the backdrop of the historic Sandringham House and St Mary Magdalene, the church where the Royal Family gathers each Christmas Day. King Charles and Queen Camilla visited the show on its opening day to present awards for the best gardens on display.
The Show Gardens
The show features a range of gardens, including A Long Border For Climate Resilience, which won a silver medal, and Naturally Resilient: Inspired By The Norfolk Coast, which showcases drought-tolerant plants. Another garden, Gardens On The Edge, highlights the issue of coastal erosion.
The Habitat Garden won a gold medal and features a sculptural dead tree and deadwood, providing a home and food for insects and birds. The garden also includes a display of plants that are resilient to climate change.
Environmental Issues
The show also features gardens and displays that focus on environmental issues, such as wetland preservation and climate change. One display, Swim Between The Flags, celebrates the work of RNLI lifeguards and features dunes sculpted from local woven willow.
A concert by Nelson’s Shantymen was a highlight of the show, with the 14-strong group performing coastal songs, including Norfolk My Home and Sloop John B.
A Chance to Explore
The RHS Sandringham Flower Show is not just a flower show, but also a chance to explore the beautiful surroundings of the Sandringham Estate. Visitors can wander through the grassland, marvel at the garden sheds, and relax in the iconic scenery, enjoying a cup of tea in the tranquil atmosphere.
There are also plenty of retail opportunities, including brightly painted beach huts, and a range of food and drink options, from craftsman gins to barbecue ribs. Visitors can also explore St Mary Magdalene, the church where the Royal Family attends Christmas services, which is located just outside the show gates.
The RHS Sandringham Flower Show is one of several shows organized by the Royal Horticultural Society, including the Chelsea Flower Show and shows at Wisley in Surrey and Hyde Hall in Essex. For more information, visit the RHS website.
