Visiting gardens in UK

[Roselee]

Hello, I am from South Africa and have decided that not later than next year is the time l do what l've been dreaming about. Visiting Chelsea flower show. But not only the show, l want to visit some open gardens. Hire a car and visit some small towns and gardens. Its been a dream of mine for many years and next year that dream must come true but l really need some advice as l dont want to do the tour group thing. Any advice will be welcome. Thanks

[Jeff Layman]

You can look here:

I doubt that next year's schedule is ready.

Also look here:

the time of the Chelsea Show, I would expect rhododendrons and azaleas to be at their best. Some of the larger gardens (eg Exbury) are renowned for their displays.

[Don Phillipson]

The National Trust may offer the single largest list of gardens: but there are many more besides (e.g. Westonbirt Arboretum.) But distances are so small (for a S.African) that you seldom go wrong simply asking one gardener where she visits for pleasure.