RHS Chatsworth

 I went to RHS Chatsworth last Saturday on a rather drizzly and windy day.  However, the weather didn't dampen our spirits and we enjoyed the day. Once we had arrived (being delayed for a while thanks to a bicycle race through Chesterfield which closed the road), the weather decided to be kind and didn't rain on us until we got back to the car. Earlier in the week, there had been wind and rain which caused press day to be curtailed.  I was pleased I had taken my wellies though, because we decided the word for the day was 'squelch'!

 The show had a beautiful setting and we felt there was plenty to see.  Our suggestions for next year would be more seating, more tea and proper cake stalls, and more gardening related stalls.  There were lots of stalls but many of them were 'lifestyle' or interiors related, rather than gardening.  The photo above focused on the rather lovely planting in the pot - a mix of wild and cultivated flowers that appealed to me.

 There were show gardens, beautifully planted...

 ...using traditional materials.

 I was surprised by how much I liked this alpine stream garden which was also beautifully planted.

 The area in this photo particularly appealed.

 There were stands with stunning sculptures - one day, when I have a bigger garden, I would really like one of these.

 We went into the inflatable 'greenhouse' several times on our way to and from the floral marquees.

 We also went through the bridge above, enjoying the planting.  I loved the dandelion sculptures too.

 The formality of the hard landscaping reminded me of a monastery garden with cloisters.

I also liked the mix of meadow (with cows) and formal planting.

 The movable garden was a great idea, particularly for people renting a home.

I had seen this display featured in the TV coverage of  Chelsea.  I have many happy memories of a helter-skelter like this at Hunstanton.  I managed to buy what I had on my list (astrantias x three, two little agapanthus and I ordered five camassia bulbs which will arrive in September/October.)  All in all, a good start for RHS Chatsworth.  Are we going next year?  Of course we are!