A Day of Inspiration and Wonder at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival.
Every July, the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival is a true highlight in my calendar, and this year’s event more than lived up to expectations. Set against the backdrop of the magnificent palace and sprawling grounds, the 2025 festival was not only a feast for the eyes but a powerful reminder of the positive impact gardens, art, and community can have on our environment—and ourselves.
From playful nostalgia to thoughtful innovation, here are some of the highlights that stood out most for me on my visit.
The Wombles at RHS Hampton Court – Making Good Use of Bad Rubbish
I couldn’t help but smile as I followed the Wombles nature trail, curated by floral designer Phillip Corps. These loveable eco-warriors from Wimbledon Common brought more than just charm—they brought a message that felt more relevant than ever. As I wandered through the site, spotting Tobermory, Wellington, and Alderney tucked amongst the foliage, I was reminded how simple ideas—like picking up litter or reusing household waste—can still make a big difference. The playful trail, packed with interactive prompts and tips for greener living, was a real joy for children and adults alike, making sustainability approachable, fun, and heartwarming.
Willow Woman – Fashion Meets Nature
Towering over the festival with quiet grace was the incredible Willow Woman, a sculpture presented by The Community Brain. Inspired by six decades of trailblazing design from Kingston School of Art, she was a celebration of creativity, sustainability, and the power of natural materials. Crafted from willow and referencing the fashion industry’s ongoing environmental impact, this installation really struck a chord. It was thought-provoking and beautiful—an homage to those young designers now pushing for an industry rooted in re-use, upcycling, and ecological responsibility.
RHS Vertigro – Reaching for the Sun
One of the most breathtaking gardens this year was RHS Vertigro by Adolfo Harrison. This vertical green corridor transformed how I thought about urban gardening. With walls of climbers twisting and turning in pursuit of sunlight, it created a sculptural, almost futuristic experience. It felt alive—constantly shifting with the arc of the sun, as if the plants themselves were performing a gentle ballet. Beyond the artistry, it drove home a powerful message: vertical gardening could hold the key to greener, cleaner cities. An imaginative and timely response to our ever-growing urban jungles.
Alan Partridge’s Sound Bath Garden – A Hilariously Precise Vision
Now here’s something I never expected to write—Alan Partridge has designed a garden! And yet, the Alan Partridge Sound Bath Garden, created in collaboration with Joe and Laura Carey and sponsored by Audible, was one of the most detailed and unexpectedly moving displays of the day. Every element, from Norfolk-grown larch fencing to gold-finished metalwork (inspired by Subaru Impreza alloys no less), told a story of local pride, resilience, and character. The sound wave boundary wall was a clever tribute to Alan’s audio legacy, and the planting reflected both regional heritage and personal quirks. It was funny, yes—but also deeply considered, with a strong thread of sustainability and craft throughout. A true surprise and one of my unexpected favourites.
A Garden of Two Tales – Inspiring Curiosity
Designed by Daniel March, this garden encouraged exactly what the festival is all about: slowing down, observing, and asking questions. With a tranquil water feature leading into a secluded area, it created a calm moment of reflection amongst the busyness of the show. The layout gently challenged assumptions and reminded visitors to consider things from different perspectives—whether in gardens or life. It was understated, thoughtful, and utterly peaceful.
Hydrotherapy Garden – Where Wellness Blooms
Colin Beevor’s hydrotherapy-inspired allotment was both clever and compassionate. Mannequins ‘exercising’ in a pool of blue and white blooms brought to life the importance of aquatic therapy for people living with arthritis. The juxtaposition of ornamental planting with edible produce created a sensory-rich experience. It was uplifting to see how gardens can be designed not just for beauty but for healing, inclusion, and functionality.
Balcony Gardens – Small Spaces, Big Ideas
For the first time at RHS Hampton, the Balcony Gardens made their debut—and what a debut it was. I adored Whiskers and Wildflowers by Elisabeth Wright-McCalla, a serene space designed to be shared by both humans and their feline friends. Elsewhere, The One Element Garden offered a fascinating look into sustainable water use and how grey water can be repurposed in our gardens. The concept of bathing outdoors might not suit us all, but the science and thought behind reusing water and nurturing plant health were hugely educational. Salix (willow trees) featured prominently here—not just as a visual anchor, but as part of a bigger conversation about climate resilience and ecological design.
Final Thoughts
There’s always something magical about the Hampton Court Garden Festival—its mix of heritage and horticulture, imagination and purpose. But what really stayed with me this year was the emphasis on doing things differently. Whether it was a nostalgic nod to the Wombles or a serious rethink of water usage, each exhibit had a story to tell.
I left feeling inspired, hopeful, and just a little more connected to the natural world. After all, gardens aren’t just about flowers—they’re about ideas, conversations, and how we want to live.
Lilly Light