The English Garden at the RHS Wisley is a fantastic place for gardening enthusiasts.
RHS Wisley has been voted the UK’s best garden for many years running, but tickets are always in high demand. If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on one then there’s no doubt that you’ll enjoy an unforgettable day out at this beautiful garden.
We have some good news! Below you will find lots of tips on how to make the most out of your visit.
What is the Wisley English Garden
The RHS Wisley English Garden is a marvelous place for gardening enthusiasts of all levels to visit, no matter if you’re just starting out or have been ornamental gardening for years. With over 1,500 acres of lakes, meadows, and woodland, you’ll never be short on inspiration.
If you’re looking for an escape from city life with plenty of space to think and breathe, this might be the perfect escape!
How to Get There
The Wisley English Garden is located just outside of Woking in Surrey. To get there, you can drive along with the A3 until you reach the M25 junction then follow signs towards Cobham or Leatherhead.
Opening Hours
The Wisley English Garden is open from 10 am until 3:30 pm on weekdays, and 9 am until 3:30 pm on weekends, although they are closed on Christmas Day. From April to September the entry fee is just £10 for adults or £5 for children under 16 years of age. There are also discounts available for concessions, RHS members, and disabled visitors.
The Woodland Garden
If you’re looking for a breath of fresh air then head straight to The Woodland Garden, one of the most charming and secluded parts of the Wisley English Garden. It’s a great place to enjoy a picnic with friends or family as this garden is full of hidden delights just waiting to be discovered.
There are many other features of the Wisley English Garden to enjoy beyond the Woodland Garden. The main garden is home to over 10,000 plants and it’s interesting to explore the different themes they have in each section. The Rock Garden has an incredible collection of succulents while the Mediterranean Garden is filled with olives, lavenders, roses, and lots more. There’s a fantastic greenhouse in the RHS Wisley English Garden that is filled with cacti and other unusual plants.
The Plant Collections
Around the main part of the Wisley English Garden, you’ll discover six plant collections. These are themed with their very own characteristics and specialties with areas for alpine plants in the Alpine House, woodland in The Woodland Garden, and water features in Rondpoint Water.
Plants
The RHS Wisley English Garden is home to over 30,000 plants from all over the world including camellias and magnolias from China, cedars from Lebanon, and a collection of pine trees from around the world. The Plant Finder map located in the entrance hall will help you find your favorite plants along with useful information about each one.
Facilities
If you’re visiting on your own, there are plenty of benches to relax on while you watch the butterflies flutter by or have a cup of tea in The Tea House. If you come with friends or family, then it’s best to bring some chairs so everyone has somewhere to sit down while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
The Art & Architecture Collection
The Art & Architecture Collection is not your typical garden. It’s full of abstract sculptures that will leave you scratching your head in wonder, wondering what on earth it could be! Soak up the sun by the water feature or enjoy the shade under the trees with a nice glass of wine.
Getting Married at Wisley
If you love the Wisley English Garden and want to get married there, then they have a dedicated wedding planner who will help you every step of the way. They’ll work with you to create your very own personalized package and advise you on what options are available for all seasons.
The Gift Shop
If you’re looking for a unique souvenir of your trip to the Wisley English Garden, then be sure to pop into their gift shop on your way out. They sell everything from quirky trinkets and unusual books to gardening gloves and tools ornaments.
Tips for Visiting the Wisley English Garden
For those of you who are visiting, the best time to go is from late spring to early autumn. For a splashing good time in the summer months try going on a sunny day and taking a swim in The Lake. If it gets too hot, then cool off with ice cream or a refreshing drink from The Tea House.
Do’s and Don’ts
Whatever you do, don’t litter! Make sure to take all of your things with you when you leave and dispose of any rubbish responsibly. Also, avoid bringing dogs as they’re not allowed in the garden. The RHS Wisley English Garden is a haven for wildlife and they need to keep it as clean and beautiful as possible.
If you’re looking for a unique way to spend your time, the RHS Wisley English Garden is perfect. With acres of plants and flowers from all over the world as well as plenty of facilities on-site, this garden will make even the most avid gardener feel like they’ve died and gone to heaven! Don’t forget that if you want somewhere special to get married or attend a wedding reception, there are packages available too. If you can’t resist picking up some souvenirs then be sure to visit their gift shop before heading home. We hope these tips have been helpful in planning your trip.