We had such a wonderful time at Hampton Court Flower Show 2017. I went this year (my second time) with my youngest (now 2.5 years), who was able to really enjoy it this time, as opposed to last time when he was only 6 months old and it was an extremely hot day which was quite tough on us both!

Tips if you’re going to Hampton Court Flower Show:

Arrive early if you need to park your car. Traffic in the surrounding area may slow you down more than you expect.  I arrived at 9.30am and was able to get a space easily in the main car park, but there was a constant flow of cars arriving and parking so it was filling up steadily.

Bring cash for parking (it costs £15 in the main car park opposite the main entrance to the palace). I am not sure about the other car parks. You may be able to park for free at Bushy Park and walk.

Wear a sun hat and sunscreen. Bring a bottle of water, which you can refill on site. Wear good walking shoes or sandals.

Buy a show guide (£5). It comes with a map, and is very useful for finding whichever bits of the show you’re most interested in.

 

Hampton Court Flower Show

There is a cash point within the show grounds.

If you have small children they might enjoy the children’s play area, which is quite small but does have a little ball pool and some soft play type items, some giant Lego bricks and giant Jenga. There are also various activities for children, especially on the weekend.

Don’t miss the butterfly dome! My toddler was excited though a little wary of these beautiful creatures. Bring a camera!

Blue butterfly

Check out the scarecrow competition, I was really impressed with all the creativity and detail. Each entry is from a different school.

There are loads of great food and drink options at Hampton Court Flower Show and you can get everything from champagne to churros with chocolate.

The restaurants require pre-booking but there are plenty of stalls where you can get various interesting foods, and free samples of treats like fudge. I tried some gin fudge which I must say was very tasty! The Allium Cafe is undercover and doesn’t require pre-booking. The queues were a little chaotic though, and they had run out of all the salads we wanted so we had to choose different ones at the last moment. Though we enjoyed some very tasty chicken and vegetable pies (£5.50).

There is of course a lot of shopping to be done, if you’re so inclined. Save some time to do this as lots of vendors offer special discounts on products if you buy it at the show (and you can bring/buy a crate on wheels to carry it in if you don’t have a buggy with you in which to stash it!) I came away with some lovely palazzo trousers and matching scarf, and half a dozen small potted succulent plants.

Have fun! I found the whole day flew by and I soon had to leave to get home for my older children. Till next time, Hampton!

If you enjoyed this post, you might like to read about our trip to Center Parcs!  Click on the link below:

Center Parcs Longleat – amazing family break

 

Twin Mummy and Daddy

 

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6 Replies to “Top tips for visiting Hampton Court Flower Show 2017”

  1. I’ve always wanted to go to a flower or garden show. They always look like such a lovely day out. Great tips. Thanks for linking up to #ThatFridayLinky

    1. Gardens are so relaxing! Though it does get quite crowded at the show. Totally agree about the parking, I was a little shocked (and relieved I had the cash with me) but I suppose if you stay the full day it is probably comparable to other car parks… Public transport via Hampton Court train station is a good option too

  2. I so want to go to Hampton court I have been told the vibe is great and succulents are really in at the moment. Lots of great tips #thatfridaylinky

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