Spring Flower Shows: Chelsea, Malvern and Harrogate in 2027

For gardeners, spring means flower shows. The biggest of them are big days out: show gardens built in days, marquees of prize-winning plants, nurseries selling rare varieties, and crowds of people swapping advice. Each of the three big spring shows has a different character, and each makes a good excuse for a weekend away.

At a glance

Harrogate Spring Flower Show: 22–25 April 2027. RHS Malvern Spring Festival: 6–9 May 2027. RHS Chelsea Flower Show: 18–22 May 2027. Tickets: booked in advance; Chelsea sells out. Best for: keen gardeners and plant buyers.

Harrogate Spring Flower Show

The first big show of the year, held at the Great Yorkshire Showground on the edge of Harrogate. It is known for its floral displays and nursery stands, especially spring bulbs and alpines, and has a friendly, northern character.

Making a weekend of it

Harrogate is an elegant spa town with Bettys tea room, the Turkish Baths and the RHS garden at Harlow Carr on its edge. The Yorkshire Dales are close by.

RHS Malvern Spring Festival

Held at the Three Counties Showground below the Malvern Hills, near Malvern. It combines show gardens and a floral marquee with a strong food and craft element, and the setting below the hills is one of the best of any show.

Making a weekend of it

The Malvern Hills give superb ridge walks, and the Vale of Evesham's blossom and the Cotswolds are within reach. See our guide to spring blossom.

RHS Chelsea Flower Show

The most famous flower show in the world, held in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London. Its show gardens set trends for years, and the Great Pavilion holds displays from the best nurseries in the country. The first days are reserved for RHS members, with public days later in the week.

Tickets

Chelsea sells out, and tickets are released well in advance, with RHS members getting priority. Space is limited, and the site is crowded at peak times; early morning and late afternoon sessions are calmer.

Making a weekend of it

Pair Chelsea with London's gardens: Kew, the Chelsea Physic Garden or the city's parks in late spring. Our London staycation guide has more.

Tips for any show

Go early

The first hours are the quietest and the best time to see the gardens and buy plants before the best sell out.

Bring a bag or trolley

Most shows have plant crèches where you can leave purchases until you go, but a folding trolley helps.

Wear comfortable shoes

You will walk a long way, often on grass. Bring layers for spring weather, which can change quickly.

For more gardening ideas, see our guides to winter gardens and bluebell woods.