5 flower shows to get in your summer diary

Here are five flower shows that groups won’t want to miss this summer, promising floral displays, gift-buying opportunities, celebrity appearances and multi-coloured show gardens.

1. Blenheim Palace Flower Show

Floral delights can be expected at the Blenheim Palace Flower Show from 22nd to 24th June when the event returns to the Oxfordshire World Heritage Site. Now in its fifth year the horticultural show houses over 300 exhibitors located around a Grand Floral Pavilion, which is situated on the south lawn of the picturesque palace. Group admission is available for 15 or more people.

2. Rose Celebrations

From 18th to 29th June, Borde Hill Garden in Sussex will host two weeks of Rose Celebrations. Groups are welcome to visit and enjoy the beauty of the rose, with short tours of the Rose Garden and its surrounding borders at 12pm on 20th and 27th June (free of charge). Don't forget to visit the shop for specialist rose plants and gifts for sale.

Pictured: Roses at Borde Hill Garden.

3. The National Flower Show

From 18th to 20th May, Hyland House & Estate in Essex will run what’s described as a ‘gardening extravaganza’ for the public to visit. The three day event celebrates the best of gardening, home and lifestyle; Hyland House and its surrounding gardens will be filled with flowers and plants for inspiration. The show is a celebration of the great outdoors and will feature an appearance from celebrity gardener Alan Titchmarsh. Coach groups can book in advance.

4. RHS Garden Wisley Flower Show

Running from 4th to 9th September, this Royal Horticultural Society six-day floral extravaganza will feature a variety of specialist nurseries and trade stands, with top quality plants and garden goodies. Visitors can gain access to expert advice and buy from RHS Chelsea and Hampton Court Place Flower Show medal winners as well as enjoying wonderful floral displays.

Pictured: RHS Garden Wisley.

5. Sandringham Flower Show

Sandringham Flower Show is in its 135th year, and the event is set in the magnificent surroundings of Sandringham Park. Many of the region’s leading nurseries and horticultural specialists exhibit, and in addition the show features display gardens by leading designers, around 200 trade stands (both horticultural and general), a craft marquee, main arena events, children's entertainment and a military band. This year’s show will take place on 25th July.

Have you read our Gardens & Flower Shows feature in Group Leisure & Travel January? Not only is it full of inspiration for ideas relating to green spaces and the great outdoors, it’s got a fascinating interview with Chris Beardshaw in. You can find it here.

Did you know: Celebrity gardener Carol Klein has been confirmed as the first Seminar Theatre speaker for this year’s Group Leisure & Travel Show, taking place on Thursday 11th October. Read the full story here.