The Royal Horticultural Society’s Garden at Wisley in Surrey is a beautiful place to visit at any time of year. I made this special visit to look at and learn more about the beautiful Water Lily and the huge display of them they have on the canal.
Wisley Gardens is the crown jewel of English horticulture and a haven for plant lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Spanning over 240 acres, this magnificent garden located in Surrey, England, is a true paradise of beauty and tranquility.
It is home to some of the largest plant collections anywhere in the world with its lush landscapes, vibrant flower displays, and meticulously-designed gardens. From the water gardens, enchanting Rose Garden, boasting a stunning collection of over 1,000 varieties of roses, to the breathtaking Glasshouse, home to exotic tropical plants, there is something to captivate every visitor.
But Wisley Gardens is not just a feast for the eyes. It is also a haven for education and research, with its state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and knowledgeable staff who are dedicated to advancing horticultural knowledge and practices.
History of Wisley Gardens
Wisley Gardens has a storied history that dates back to the late 19th century. The garden was established in 1878 by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the UK’s leading gardening charity, as a centre for horticultural experimentation and education.
The land was acquired through a generous donation from Sir George Jackman, a nurseryman who recognized the need for a dedicated space to advance the science and art of gardening. Over the years, Wisley Gardens has evolved into a world-renowned institution, renowned for its exceptional plant collections, cutting-edge research, and educational programs.
Today, Wisley Gardens stands as a testament to the enduring passion and dedication of generations of horticulturists, botanists, and gardeners who have worked tirelessly to preserve and enhance this extraordinary green oasis. As the flagship garden of the RHS, Wisley serves as a hub for horticultural excellence, inspiring visitors from around the world with its stunning displays and innovative approaches to sustainable gardening.
Notable features and attractions
One of the garden’s most iconic landmarks is the Glasshouse, a stunning 19th-century structure that houses a breathtaking collection of exotic and tropical plants.
Visitors can step inside the Glasshouse and be transported to a lush, humid environment, where they can admire the vibrant foliage and delicate blooms of rare and unusual plant species. The Glasshouse also features a series of themed zones, including the Tropical House, the Mediterranean House, and the Arid House, each showcasing a unique ecosystem and its remarkable inhabitants.
Another must-see attraction at Wisley is the renowned Rose Garden, which boasts an impressive collection of over 1,000 rose varieties. Visitors can stroll through the meticulously-manicured beds, inhaling the intoxicating scent of these regal blooms and marveling at the stunning array of colors and forms. The Rose Garden is particularly breathtaking during the peak flowering season, when the garden is awash in a sea of vibrant hues.
Another highlight of Wisley is the orchard, where visitors can learn about the cultivation and care of a wide range of edible plants, from apples and pears to berries and stone fruits. The garden’s raised beds and espalier-trained fruit trees provide a visually striking display, while also serving as a valuable resource for gardeners and home growers seeking inspiration and practical advice.
The old laboratory at RHS Wisley is a very significant part of the garden’s history. It has played a crucial role in various scientific research and experimentation in horticulture over the years. The laboratory was established in 1916 and has witnessed numerous breakthroughs in horticultural studies.
Its historical significance lies in its association with renowned botanists and scientists who have worked and studied there. The laboratory has been a hub for innovative research, enabling the discovery of new plant species, advancements in plant breeding techniques, and developments in garden design.
Throughout its existence, the old laboratory has provided a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing among experts in various fields. It has facilitated the exchange of ideas and the dissemination of scientific findings to benefit the wider gardening community.
The Water Lilies
In front of this picturesque property is the ‘Canal’, a large formal pool that has been carefully-planted with many varieties of a most exotic and sought-after water plant.
The water lilies of Wisley spring into life in July. Beneath the warmth of a summer sun they can quickly transform from tight bulbs into open blooms. On the day I visited, I was treated to a magnificent floral display that ranged from lemony hues to raspberry tones.
Dragonflies were glinting in the sunshine as they darted between the flowers (far too quickly for me to catch with my camera…)
Each section of the canal has been carefully planted with different varieties of water lily – and each variety is easily identifiable by a little plaque that rests amongst the lily pads.
Staring at the patches of colour emerging from the sparkling water, I found it easy to see why French Impressionist painters – especially Monet – were so captivated by these colourful summer blooms.
In fact Monet painted an entire series of 250 oil paintings entitled Water Lilies or Nymphéas – dedicated to the water lilies in his own garden at Giverny in France.
Visitor Information
Wisley Gardens is located in the heart of Surrey, just a short drive from London, making it an easily accessible destination for visitors from near and far. The garden is open year-round, with the exception of a few select days during the year, and offers a range of ticketing options to suit the needs of different visitors.
For those arriving by car, the garden offers ample on-site parking, with designated accessible spaces available for visitors with mobility challenges. Alternatively, visitors can take advantage of the garden’s public transport links, with regular bus services connecting Wisley to nearby towns and train stations.
They offer a very genrous 30% discount for anyone coming by public transport or without a car, i.e. on a bicycle.
There is a £2 shuttle bus for those arriving at the nearest train station of Woking, which is only 25 minutes by train from London Waterloo.
The address for Wisley Gardens is:
RHS Garden Wisley
Woking
Surrey
GU23 6QB
Once inside the garden, visitors will find a range of amenities to enhance their experience, including a well-stocked gift shop, several cafes and restaurants serving delicious, locally-sourced fare, and a dedicated children’s play area. The garden also boasts a comprehensive network of accessible pathways and facilities, ensuring that visitors of all abilities can explore and enjoy the wonders of Wisley.
Visitors should consider the timing of their visit, as the garden’s seasonal highlights can vary dramatically throughout the year. For example, the spring and summer months offer the opportunity to witness the vibrant blooms of the garden’s many flowers, while the autumn and winter seasons showcase the stunning foliage and structural beauty of the garden’s trees and shrubs.
Conclusion
Wisley Gardens is a true gem in the crown of English horticulture, a place where the beauty and wonder of the natural world are celebrated and preserved for all to enjoy. From its rich history and exceptional plant collections to its innovative research and educational programs, Wisley Gardens stands as a testament to the enduring passion and dedication of those who have worked tirelessly to cultivate this extraordinary green oasis.
Whether you are a seasoned gardener seeking inspiration, a nature lover in search of tranquility, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the natural world, a visit to Wisley Gardens is an experience that will leave a lasting impression. With its diverse array of attractions, seasonal highlights, and engaging events, this remarkable garden offers something for everyone, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the joy and wonder of horticulture.
