Events at RHS Garden Wisley
Make the most of your visit to Wisley by downloading our visitor map (1MB pdf).
Download the Wisley summer events list (831kB pdf)
Download the 2013 Wisley leaflet for admission prices, opening times, and event details (629kB pdf)
May
Glasshouse display: Pelargoniums - 4 May – 16 June
Enjoy a vibrant display of Wisley’s Pelargonium collection, featuring the many different types such as regal, scented-leaved and zonal. This year’s display will also incorporate a Mediterranean feel with plants such as tender lavender, cycads and agaves. Glasshouse open: 10am – 5.15pm daily (last entry 5pm).
100 Years of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show
21 May – 16 June
An illustrated display in the Glasshouse celebrating the centenary of the world’s most famous flower show. Drawing on the unique archives held by the RHS Lindley Library, this display shows how much the RHS Chelsea Flower Show has changed since 1913.
(Glasshouse opening times: 10am – 5.15pm, last entry 5pm).
This May half term head to Wisley for fun activities to keep boredom at bay! See what local schools have created for our Budding Gardeners displays, get crafty and roll up your sleeves and get planting. View event details
Admire iris displays, and speak to expert growers who will be happy to answer your questions. View event details
June
This May half term head to Wisley for fun activities to keep boredom at bay! See what local schools have created for our Budding Gardeners displays, get crafty and roll up your sleeves and get planting. View event details
Birds of Prey - 1 – 2 June
A great day out to discover all about birds of prey. See these magnificent birds up close, with agility displays at 11am and 2pm.
Displays and advice, together with a talk on intersectional peonies by Claire Austin and a walk to see the peonies at Wisley. View event details
Learn how to get the taste of summer in your garden! We'll cover a range of soft fruits and their care, planting, soils, siting, training, pruning and maintenance. View event details
Think you don't have space to grow edibles? Think again! This half day session will cover a wide range of ideas for edible planting combinations, container planting and care - plus the chance to pot up a container to take home. View event details
Father’s Day Weekend – Stone carving - 15 – 16 June
Bring dad along for a unique experience with Southern Stone. Demonstrations and ‘have a go’ sessions (12+ only) are free with normal garden entry, but you can pre-book a day workshop (10am-4pm; £95 plus garden entry) to make a Tudor rose. (To book: 0845 612 1253). There are 6 places each day (16+).
Programme (approx timings):
10 – 11.30am: Have a go
11.30am – 12pm: Stone carving demonstration
12 – 1pm: Have a go
1.30 – 2pm: Stone carving demonstration
2 – 4pm: Have a go
Don't forget to treat dad to lunch or afternoon tea in the newly refurbished restaurant. Tel: 01483 225 329 to book your table.
International Garden Photographer of the Year Exhibition
21 June – 11 August
See some of the best photos selected from this year’s prestigious event, as well as images from the 2012 RHS Photographic Competition.
You are cordially invited to Wisley’s annual Garden Party. Join us on Surrey’s favourite lawn, Seven Acres, for a weekend of fun and festivities including swing dancing, vintage makeovers, afternoon teas and more! View event details
July
Members’ evening - 4 July, 6pm – 9pm
Savour the tranquillity of Wisley after hours as the garden opens late for RHS Members. Last entry 8.30pm.
Members’ plant auction - 4 July, 6pm – 8.45pm
Hosted by Wisley Curator Colin Crosbie, this is an opportunity for RHS Members to bid on a range of quality, rare and unusual plants. Some have been grown at Wisley, others by specialist nurseries. All funds raised will go towards developing an area of the garden. Tickets are free, but must be pre-booked at least 3 days in advance by calling 0845 612 1253.
Have lunch with code breakers - 5 July
Join Sinclair McKay, the author behind The Secret Listeners – a true story all about Bletchley Park and the code breaking that happened there. This afternoon talk includes a welcome glass of prosecco or elderflower lemonade and a two-course lunch.
Times: 12.30–3pm. Cost: £60 (members) £70.95 (non-members). Advance booking essential, tel: 0845 612 1253.
WI Scarecrow Trail - 19 July – 18 August (with 18 July preview evening)
This imaginative scarecrow trail will wow as the WI put a new twist on this countryside icon. Follow the trail around Seven Acres and choose your favourite; with around 70 on display, you will be spoilt for choice!
You can view the scarecrow trail before it opens to the public on 18 July at a fantastic preview evening (6.30 - 9pm) featuring live music, a BBQ and bar. Cost: RHS members £6, non-members £9. Tel: 0845 612 1253 to book.
Become an intrepid explorer at Wisley this summer with the Great Garden Adventure, sponsored by Witan Investment Trust. It's a great day out for all the family as kids go free! Check back soon to download your voucher. View event details
August
Become an intrepid explorer at Wisley this summer with the Great Garden Adventure, sponsored by Witan Investment Trust. It's a great day out for all the family as kids go free! Check back soon to download your voucher. View event details
September
Become an intrepid explorer at Wisley this summer with the Great Garden Adventure, sponsored by Witan Investment Trust. It's a great day out for all the family as kids go free! Check back soon to download your voucher. View event details
Wisley Flower Show - 4 – 8 September
Enjoy the delights of this late summer show as you browse and buy from over 40 specialist nurseries and garden trade stands. Other highlights include spectacular floral displays by Surrey NAFAS, and the National Dahlia Society Show. More details to follow soon.