EW Guide to Summer Hospitality 01



Chelsea Flower Show is seen as the first big one of the summer social calendar. No longer in the realm of the landowner accompanied by their head gardener, it now attracts everyone from HRH to politicians, celebrities, and of course those with genuine green fingers. This said, each day has it's own guest list; The Queen gets her own private viewing on the Monday, accompanied by a few invited guests. Tuesday and Wednesday are for Royal Horticultural Society Members only, whilst Thursday and Friday are for the general public. Friday afternoon is auction time when you get to snap up anything that has not been sold during the week and is still alive!

Do	Plan what you want to see when you get in, taking into account the weather - the official catalogue may help you find your way through the jungle! Dress conservatively - ladies, this is not the place for low cut tops and strappy stilettos. If in doubt go floral! Dress to impress for the Gala Preview however - this is the Monday night Champagne and Pimms extravaganza. Do bring a lightweight stool, as there are few places to sit, especially if it has been raining. Bring your wheelbarrow if you intend to buy anything on bargain Friday!
Don't	Wear your favourite suede shoes if the weather is dicey. Bring an umbrella in inclement weather; waterproofs are far more crowd-friendly. Forget a pen and paper, in order to jot down the latest in Flower fashion that you see.
Directions:	Leave your Land rover at home; tube or taxi is your best bet. From Sloane Square it is a 10 minute walk or bus ride. Alternatively a bus service operates from Victoria mainline station to the Showground. As a last resort there are limited parking spaces in Battersea Park, with a shuttle service to the ground.