Harrogate, North Yorkshire – The annual celebration of autumn’s bounty, the Harrogate Autumn Flower Show, is poised to captivate thousands of visitors at Newby Hall, Ripon, from September 13th to September 15th.
Organized by the North of England Horticultural Society (NEHS), this renowned event draws over 30,000 attendees annually, showcasing premier garden produce and floral marvels. Central to the show’s allure are elaborate floral exhibitions, delectable farm-to-table fare, expert gardening guidance, and fiercely competitive contests, including the acclaimed Giant Fruit and Vegetable competition.
Catering to enthusiasts of all skill levels, attendees can explore the award-winning gardens of Newby Hall, attend informative talks and demonstrations, indulge in garden shopping, and marvel at stunning floral installations within the historic halls. Notable highlights of this year’s edition encompass the expansive Floral Pavilion, boasting seasonal displays of autumn blooms by top UK growers, alongside a diverse array of plants and the prestigious National Dahlia and Chrysanthemum Northern Championships.
The ‘Incredible Edible’ pavilion promises excitement with its famed contests, such as the Giant Vegetable and National Onion competitions, where growers vie to surpass last year’s record-breaking feats. A highlight includes the pursuit of a £1,500 prize and Guinness World Records recognition for the heftiest onion, a staggering 19lb 7oz.
Under the theme ‘Nature Reclaims’, this year’s interior exhibits at Newby Hall will transform its esteemed Adam interiors with awe-inspiring, rewilding-inspired floral art installations.
Live stages will host practical gardening advice sessions and narratives from plant experts, complemented by demonstrations on cultivating and cooking Yorkshire’s finest produce. Chef Steph Moon and garden guru Martin Walker will lead sessions, including the ‘Pick and Preserve’ feature, offering insights on prolonging produce freshness through winter. For younger visitors, there will be interactive activities and access to Newby Hall’s adventure garden.
A cornerstone event in NEHS’s calendar, the Harrogate Autumn Flower Show, alongside its spring counterpart in April, underscores its commitment to supporting specialist societies, groups, and charitable horticultural organizations. Last year alone, the autumn show contributed over £163,000 towards these initiatives.
Tickets priced at £23 per person can be purchased online or for £28 at the door. Admission grants full access to Newby’s expansive gardens, featuring Europe’s largest herbaceous flower borders, 15 distinct garden ‘rooms’, and a family-friendly adventure garden.
