Up at 5 AM after a late evening of wonderful cocktails, sushi rolls and dessert at Salmontini, and packing. None of us really slept for fear of sleeping through the alarm. Bleary-eyed, we checked out of the hotel, leaving our luggage as we hopped into a taxi to take us to the Royal Hospital's Ranelagh Gardens along the Thames for the Chelsea Flower Show. Eager and early, we are first in line to retrieve our will-call tickets purchased several months ago. Surprisingly, we and two other seasoned show-goers are first at the entrance gate with almost another hour of waiting time until the gate opens. The early morning cold is penetrating as the sun has not yet risen high enough to provide warmth. While waiting, we learn tips about where to go first, what are the really exceptional and not to be missed displays, and where to find cream tea, Pimms Cup, and fish and chips. There is even time for some pre-Flower Show fun! ! ! |
To be quite honest, I was a bit disappointed. . . I expected more "garden rooms" and less vendors. However, truth be told, I did buy a new waxed leather English raincoat and hat — and could have bought so much more!
As you look at the photos below, keep in mind that the landscape designers have one-month to stage their "garden" environments . . . and many are quite glorious! I've come away with a number of inspirations and flower photographs that one day I hope will become part of quite a lovely series of botanical images that is almost a decade in the making.
As you look at the photos below, keep in mind that the landscape designers have one-month to stage their "garden" environments . . . and many are quite glorious! I've come away with a number of inspirations and flower photographs that one day I hope will become part of quite a lovely series of botanical images that is almost a decade in the making.
Before leaving to reclaim our luggage, we tuckered into fish and chips while listening to Post WW II music -- really great! After a short taxi ride, Petunia headed back to our hotel while Gypsy and I headed to Harrods to find some gardening shoes she saw at the Flower Show. No luck after weaving in and out of upscale designer boutiques that are scattered here and there like rabbit warrens. |
Walking back to the Belgrave Hotel there is opportunity to photograph some of the designer storefronts along Sloane Street that have been decorated in celebration of the Chelsea Flower Show.