Afternoon:
11°c
With a single dessert and just two glasses of wine our bill was kept in check - but the effort of doing so was not much fun
Video: Londoner David Haye becomes world champion after defeating 'Beast from the East' who towered almost one foot above him and weighed seven stone more
More...
How to survive the Chelsea Flower Show
By Valentine Low, Evening Standard 16.05.07
Follow our handy tips for surviving the Chelsea Flower Show
Look here too
Chelsea Flower Show, 22-26 May
Royal Hospital, Chelsea.
Going to Chelsea for the first time? You will need to be prepared for one of the most punishing events of the season - but, if planned right, also one of the most rewarding. Here is the Evening Standard's Chelsea Flower Show Survival Guide...
Shoes: There is, quite simply, nothing more important than wearing the right footwear. Wear comfortable shoes and forget stilettoes - you might find yourself stuck in the mud during one of Chelsea's infamous downpours and Diarmuid Gavin is not going come and pull you out.
Be weather prepared: Carry a light raincoat but don't take an umbrella - some of those Gloucestershire matrons don't take kindly to being poked in the shin by a brolly.
Plan ahead: Buy your catalogue in advance - it can be ordered along with your tickets - and then use the map inside to plan your day.
Local knowledge: A little goes a long way. For instance, the loos in Western Avenue often have shorter queues.
Water: Carry a couple of bottles to avoid shelling out for some overpriced bottled stuff of dubious provenance.
Plant Societies' Stands: Don't forget to visit them - you can get specialist advice and find some interesting rarities.
Credit card: Take one if you cannot resist being the first to buy new varieties. On second thoughts, leave it behind.
Get there early: Doors open at 8am, and it is soon crowded.
Tact: Try to avoid saying out loud things like, "My six-year-old could have done better." The person next to you is probably the designer.
Bun fight: If you are feeling strong, try the plant sale at the end of the show. It is signalled by a bell at 4pm and makes the Harrods sale look like a walk in the park. But check what you are buying is in good condition.
When: Tuesday 22 May, Wednesday 23 May, RHS members only; Thursday 24 May, Friday 25 May, 8am-8pm; Saturday 26 May, 8am-5.30pm.
Where: Royal Hospital, Chelsea.
Nearest Tube: Sloane Square.
Entrances: Royal Hospital Road and Chelsea Embankment. Don't take the car - parking is very limited.
For more information, go to www.rhs.org.uk/chelsea/2007
Related articles
