Season’s Greetings

The Royal Horticultural Society took possession of Wisley, situated outside the major Surrey towns of Guildford and Woking, in 1903. At that time, only a small part of the 60-acres estate was cultivated as a garden with the remainder standing as wooded farmland. 

George Fergusson Wilson – businessman, scientist, inventor and a former treasurer of the RHS - had been responsible for the original garden which he began in 1878. His experimental ideas had resulted in the garden becoming well known in horticultural circles for its impressive collections of lilies, gentians, Japanese irises, primulas and water plants.

The space was embraced by the RHS becoming its headquarters in 1904. Mr Wilson’s ethos of experimentation has lived on as to this day, Wisley seeks to promote a mix of learning and pleasure throughout what have become its world-renowned gardens.

There is no question that autumn is one of the best times to visit. Here is a guide of what to look for as the season arrives...

Look for vivid changes throughout the garden on acer, oak and beech trees, which provide spectacular sights as the season progresses. One of the first signs of autumn colour in the garden is the iconic black gum trees on Seven Acres. In autumn, large groups of asters come to the fore in the Equinox Borders, complemented by autumn flowering Kniphofia (red-hot poker), hardy fuchsias and Hesperantha (crimson flag lily). 

There are 650 Aster plants across 20 cultivars – many of them new to Wisley. Another feature plant is Euonymus (spindle), including several mature plants relocated from the arboretum. All of these have excellent autumn colour and some stunning fruit and seed pods.

Seasonal events at RHS Garden Wisley

Photography Morning: 22 September

Get an early start for a photography morning session at RHS Garden Wisley, where you can enjoy the peaceful setting of the garden to capture perfect seasonal moments. Garden opens at 8am.

Festival of Flavours: 9 to 13 October

Head to RHS Garden Wisley for the Festival of Flavours. Browse seasonal produce, taste tempting treats from exhibiting food stands and gain growing tips from RHS experts.

October Half Term ‘Wicked Plants’: 26 October – 3 November

Follow a fun outdoor trail to discover unusual plants and enjoy seed planting and craft activities.

Desire - Jewellery Silversmithing Fair: 6 – 10 November

Browse a diverse selection of unique items by contemporary jewellers and silversmiths at RHS Hilltop.

Glow: 22 November – 5 January

Get that festive feeling at RHS Glow as RHS Garden Wisley transforms into a winter wonderland by night. Wander our enchanting route around the garden, see some of RHS Garden Wisley’s iconic sights and enjoy tasty treats from the seasonal chalets.

To find out more about Wisley, visit rhs.org.uk