Chelsea In Bloom 2023: Film History Celebrated In Free Flower Festival

Laura Reynolds
By Laura Reynolds Last edited 11 months ago

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Chelsea In Bloom 2023: Film History Celebrated In Free Flower Festival
Chelsea in Bloom: two young boys and a dog pose in front of a giant corgi made from flowers
An installation from last year's festival, which had a Jubilee theme. Image: Chelsea in Bloom

Dozens of floral sculptures and arches will take over west London in May, with the return of Chelsea in Bloom.

The free flower festival takes place each year to coincide with the RHS Chelsea Flower Show nearby, with local shops, restaurants and other businesses festooning themselves with huge, flowery artworks. Over 100 local businesses took place last year, competing for prizes for the best display.

2023's theme is Flowers on Film, celebrating characters and storylines which we'll recognise from cinema screens, as well as important cinema awards. Look out for a life-sized Oscars statue and interactive red carpet, both on Pavilion Road, as well as nods to films which were set or filmed in the local area (A Clockwork Orange, Withnail and I, A Good Year, Skyfall...).

Chelsea in Bloom: a shop doorway with an arch of greenery on an Alice in Wonderland theme, featuring playing cards, and a white rabbit made from flowers
Photo: Chelsea in Bloom

Details of installations will be announced on the Chelsea in Bloom website closer to the time, as well as a map to help you plan your walk. Complimentary rickshaw rides and walking tours can be booked at the Information Point in Sloane Square during the festival, offering an alternative way to view the blooms.

It's completely free to wander around Chelsea in Bloom, which covers King's Road, Duke of York Square, Sloane Square, Sloane Street, Dovehouse Green and Royal Avenue.

Chelsea in Bloom: a skeleton surrounded by blue-hued flowers and seashells
A previous Chelsea in Bloom, when there was an 'under the sea' theme. Photo: Londonist

You'll be wanting your comfiest shoes if you're planning to see it all on foot — particularly if you combine it with a wander around nearby Belgravia in Bloom, a similar free flower festival which this year has a wild animals theme.

Chelsea in Bloom: Flowers on Film takes place 22-27 May 2023.

Last Updated 24 April 2023

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