Category: spring

The Chelsea Flower Show is an annual event that takes place in the Royal Hospital Chelsea, London. It is a world-renowned show that attracts garden enthusiasts from all over the globe. The Chelsea Flower Show is not just any ordinary flower show; it is a prestigious event that has a rich history. In this blog post, we will look at how the Chelsea Flower Show began, some interesting facts and how to make the most out of your visit. 

The Beginning of the Chelsea Flower Show 

The Chelsea Flower Show has roots as far back as 1827 when it started as a simple fête at Chiswick Garden. It progressed to an area, not far from The Bentley Hotel to the RHS garden in our beloved area of Kensington. This was held in 1862 and it was originally known as the ‘Great Spring Show’. It also included an exhibition on a site now occupied by the Natural History and Science Museums!

The shows were a success, and they came to be held annually and eventually in 1913 settled to where we find the show now, in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. The first show at Chelsea was a big success and The Gardeners Chronicle wrote: “[The show] exceeded all expectations … so large and numerous were the groups, and so magnificent the quality of the varied exhibits”.

The Chelsea Flower Show or the Spring Show as it was known back then, started to become a well-loved event by many and continued to go from strength to strength. Unfortunately, soon World War I arrived, and the Flower Show had to be put on hold… but they didn’t let this disrupt the tradition of the show. Even during World War II, the grounds were used for growing vegetables to support the war effort and, as soon as it was able, the show resumed in 1947.

The Chelsea Flower Show Today

Today, the Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most prestigious flower shows in the world. It attracts over 150,000 visitors and the whole event is televised by the BBC. The show features some of the most exceptional gardens, plants, and flowers from around the globe. It also features talks and demonstrations by garden experts and celebrities.

This special spring event also captures the imaginations of many districts in London and has inspired them to run their own floral events which include window displays, fun-filled activities, competitions and more. Most notably, Chelsea in Bloom runs their free annual festival alongside the flower show and each year has its own theme. 2023’s theme is ‘Flowers on Film’. Keep your eyes peeled for more details about the event and how to get involved here.

Get Involved

If you want to be a part of this exciting celebration of nature, then there’s no better time to book and plan your London stay. The Chelsea Flower show 2023 is taking place from 23rd May to the 27th. The Bentley Hotel South Kensington is a great base to enjoy all the delights of London’s celebration of spring. Our luxury decor and eye for detail from our entrance, to our rooms and to our spa truly creates the most enjoyable London hotel experience. Which is why we believe we are the number 1 choice for a Chelsea Flower Show hotel. 

Spring has arrived and it’s time to celebrate the season of renewal and growth. The world around us is blooming with colourful flowers, fresh greenery, and the sweet songs of birds and London is no exception! Here at The Bentley Hotel in South Kensington we would love to welcome you to London this Apri 2023 so that you can embrace all the joys of spring.

Springtime in the Royal Parks

South Kensington is home to some of London’s most beautiful parks, including Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. In April, these parks come alive with the colours of spring. Take a stroll through the park and enjoy the daffodils, tulips, and cherry blossoms in bloom. Watch the bees buzzing from flower to flower and breathe in the fresh air. The Royal Parks are the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of London in the springtime! 

Boating on the Serpentine

Whilst enjoying the delights of London’s green spaces, why not take a visit to The Serpentine Lake located in Hyde Park. One of the best ways to enjoy the spring weather in South Kensington is by taking a boat ride on the Serpentine. Starting in April, you can rent a rowboat or pedal boat and take a leisurely ride on the lake. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the beauty of the park from a unique perspective.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year

If you want to see nature but the weather is being typically British, then you may want to head over to The Natural History Museum. This South Kensington gem is hosting the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. This annual exhibit showcases some of the most stunning wildlife photography from around the world. You’ll see everything from majestic elephants to tiny insects in their natural habitats. It’s a must-see for anyone who loves nature and photography… Plus a great place to ride out an April shower! 

The Bentley Hotel

If you are looking for a hotel close to the royal parks then look no further than The Bentley Hotel – A perfect hotel near Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and more. With 64 luxuriously decorated rooms, a traditional hammam spa, restaurant, and cocktail lounge, you will have everything you need to holiday in London to the full. Book directly through our website for the best rates and offers. We hope to welcome you to our hotel this April.

Do you have something exciting to look forward to this month? Despite still being Spring, May could well be the best month to visit London. Offering sunnier weather, extra holidays and a host of unmissable floral treats! In this latest article we will look at how you can enjoy the best of London this month and into the extended four-day bank holiday.

The biggest event to hit London during the 24th to 28th May has to be the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. This world-renowned show combines a floral feast of stunning garden designs, displays, educational exhibits and stylish boutique shopping. Get inspiration for your own house and garden or just simply enjoy the sensory experience. Tickets are available to book now on the website. 

If you can’t get tickets to the flower show or you want to enhance your visit, Chelsea in Bloom is completely unmissable. Running along the same dates, it is Chelsea Flower Show’s sister event, and best of all… It’s free. Each year the establishments along four major areas of Chelsea take part in transforming the streets and competing to win awards for their innovative floral displays. This year the theme is “British Icons’. The displays will focus on some of the greatest things to come out of Britain, from the Beatles to Alice in Wonderland. Why not take a walking tour to get the most out of this special event, guided by an expert ambassador? Or our personal favourite… A complimentary rickshaw ride, to really soak up the atmosphere and see the displays in style. (Top tip: the rides seat two – so what a perfect romantic date idea!) It isn’t all about the scenery either – sip a cocktail that promises British Summer in a glass, indulge with a Peter Rabbit themed tasting menu or try your hand at flower arranging. Themed events like these are planned with more waiting to be revealed on the Chelsea in Bloom Website – so, make sure to check before you arrive for the best experience.

Finally, to complete the floral experience, just around the corner from the Bentley Hotel Kensington, is ‘Fait Maison’. A beautiful boutique ‘Salon de The’ where you can enjoy the sunshine and the signature floral window displays – great for a final photo op, in case you haven’t filled your photo gallery with enough botanical wonders! Some menu highlights include a range of interesting drinks, ice creams and Middle Eastern cuisine.

What do you value most when picking accommodation? – Location? Service? A touch of luxury? When your holiday time is precious, you don’t want to waste it. So don’t make compromises on your accommodation and choose The Bentley Hotel South Kensington. Situated near Chelsea and oozing with 5-star opulence, it’s the perfect combination of location, luxury and service for the best holiday in London.