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RHS Garden Wisley: The Royal Horticultural Society's Premier Garden in Surrey

Explore 240 acres of horticultural brilliance at RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey’s premier botanical garden blending science, beauty, and year-round inspiration.

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RHS Garden Wisley, located in Wisley near Woking, Surrey, is the flagship garden of the Royal Horticultural Society. Spanning 240 acres, it showcases over 25,000 plant species across diverse themed gardens including a spectacular glasshouse, rock garden, rose garden, and innovative world food garden. The garden blends horticultural science with inspiring landscapes, offering visitors year-round beauty, educational programs, and tranquil natural escapes.

A brief summary to RHS Garden Wisley

  • Wisley Ln, Woking, Wisley, GU23 6QB, GB
  • +441483224234
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 3 to 5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-3:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-3:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-3:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-3:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-3:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-3:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-3:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit RHS Hilltop for interactive gardening science exhibits and beautiful demonstration gardens.
  • Plan at least three to four hours to explore the extensive gardens and enjoy seasonal highlights.
  • Check the garden’s schedule for seasonal events like RHS Glow Wisley, an enchanting winter light trail.
  • Use the recommended wheelchair route for the best accessible experience across the garden.
  • Enjoy a meal or afternoon tea at the Terrace Restaurant or relax in one of the garden cafés.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from central London takes approximately 50 to 70 minutes via the M25 and A3. Ample parking is available on-site, but it can fill quickly during weekends and holidays. Parking fees apply, typically around £5–£10 per day.

  • Train and Bus

    Take a train from London Waterloo to Woking (about 25 minutes), then catch the 34 bus towards Ripley, which stops near Wisley Lane. The total journey time ranges from 60 to 90 minutes. Bus services run hourly; check schedules in advance.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    From Woking station, taxis or rideshare services take about 15 minutes to reach RHS Garden Wisley. This option is convenient but more costly, typically £15–£25 depending on traffic.

  • Walking

    For nearby accommodations or local visitors, walking routes to the garden are possible but involve country lanes and uneven paths. Expect 30 to 45 minutes from the nearest village of Wisley; suitable for those comfortable with moderate terrain.

RHS Garden Wisley location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about RHS Garden Wisley

A Living Legacy of British Horticulture

RHS Garden Wisley, gifted to the Royal Horticultural Society in 1903 by Sir Thomas Hanbury, has evolved into a world-class horticultural destination. Covering 240 acres, it serves as both a public garden and a centre for horticultural research and education. The garden is a living catalogue of ornamental and culinary plants, demonstrating British gardening at its finest. Its diverse terrain and soils are artfully utilized to create a variety of garden styles and plant collections, reflecting over a century of gardening excellence.

Distinctive Garden Areas and Plant Collections

Visitors can explore 33 distinct garden areas, each offering unique botanical experiences. Highlights include the vast Glasshouse, which replicates tropical and temperate climates across three zones, the Bowes-Lyon Rose Garden famed for its fragrant blooms, and the expansive Rock Garden featuring dwarf conifers and alpines set in Sussex sandstone. The World Food Garden showcases edible plants of all shapes and sizes, while the Wellbeing Garden invites calm reflection. The Pinetum displays century-old trees, and the mixed borders along the Broad Walk present a spectacular, ever-changing floral display.

Innovations in Gardening Science and Education

RHS Hilltop, opened in 2021, is the Home of Gardening Science at Wisley. This state-of-the-art facility offers interactive exhibitions and gardens dedicated to horticultural research, sustainability, and education. The Old Laboratory building provides historical insight into the RHS’s early days at Wisley through engaging exhibits. Throughout the year, the garden hosts educational talks, workshops, and seasonal events, empowering visitors to deepen their gardening knowledge and connect with nature.

Seasonal Highlights and Visitor Experience

RHS Garden Wisley is a year-round destination with seasonal spectacles such as carpets of crocus in spring, vibrant summer roses, stunning autumn foliage, and crisp winter walks. The garden’s extensive paths are lined with shrubs and trees that offer shelter and sensory delights even in wet weather. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the gardens, spot wildlife in the dedicated Wildlife Garden, or challenge themselves with a climb up Battleston Hill for panoramic views.

Facilities and Amenities for a Comfortable Visit

The garden features multiple cafes and restaurants serving fresh, seasonal produce, including the Terrace Restaurant and the World Food Café. The RHS Wisley Garden Centre offers a curated selection of plants, gardening tools, and gifts. Accessibility is well-considered, with recommended wheelchair routes and ample seating throughout. Visitor amenities include restrooms, information boards, and a visitor centre. The garden is open daily except Christmas Day, with varying opening hours to suit the seasons.

Location and Accessibility

Situated between Cobham and Ripley, south of London, RHS Garden Wisley is easily accessible by car and public transport. Parking is available but can fill quickly during peak periods. The garden’s expansive layout encourages leisurely exploration, with visitors typically spending three to four hours or more to fully appreciate its offerings. The garden’s commitment to sustainability and horticultural excellence makes it a treasured destination for plant lovers and casual visitors alike.

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