The RHS Chelsea Flower Show may be the most popular event for gardening enthusiasts, but a new horticultural spectacle has emerged in Somerset: The Great Garden Show at The Newt. This month, the 250-year-old working estate, which includes farmland, orchards, a luxury hotel, and a cyder cellar, is hosting its own garden festival.
A New Horticultural Spectacle
The Newt was the headline sponsor of RHS Chelsea Flower Show for four consecutive years until last spring. The new Great Garden Show, running from May 9th to 17th, may be seen as an attempt to take on Chelsea at its own game. They are drawing on the estate’s previous partnership with RHS Chelsea, bringing the iconic flower show’s spirit to rural Somerset.
According to The Newt, the show aims to teach people useful things about gardening in nine days. The event is designed to provide a unique experience for visitors, with a focus on learning and fun.
A Unique Experience
Upon visiting The Great Garden Show, it becomes clear that the event is a completely different offering from Chelsea. With expert talks, workshops, and pre-bookable activities, this is a nine-day programme of fun and fascinating events. Entry to the show for non-members is £25 per person, and under-16s can attend for free. They must book in advance, however.
Instead of show gardens, visitors can explore The Newt’s expansive gardens at leisure, a privilege usually reserved for members. There’s also a fresh ‘Symphony of Colour’ planting scheme across the Victorian Beds, Scented Gardens, and Colour Gardens. The gardeners have refreshed the Cottage Garden with pastel pink planting to celebrate the launch of The Newt’s new rosé wine.
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Learning and Crafts
The Great Garden Show focuses on learning and crafts, with various workshops and activities. Visitors can try flower hammering, join a fermentation class, and take an ancient tree walk. Mid-week, they can learn how to espalier, make compost, or craft natural plant supports. The show also features a Newt Question Time on Saturday, May 16th, with famous horticultural faces, including Alan Titchmarsh and Charles Dowding, sharing their expert insight.
Despite the many visitors, the show has a relaxed atmosphere, with live musicians, pop-up refreshment opportunities, and tractor and cyder tours. The event offers something for everyone, from gardening enthusiasts to foodies and those who appreciate country crafts and the natural world.
A Celebration of Country Crafts
Towards the end of the show, on Saturday, May 16th, The Newt has lined up a day of celebrations, featuring country crafts and traditions. There will be Maypole and Morris dancing, a communal art project, and a plant fair. The event is a great opportunity for visitors to learn about and experience traditional country crafts.
On the final day of the show, Sunday, May 17th, The Big Newt BioBlitz will highlight the local flora and fauna, with opportunities to learn about creating an eco-friendly garden and participating in wildlife counts. The show runs until Sunday, May 17th, with entry free for members and £25 for non-members. Children under 16 can enter for free but must book in advance.
