Visit to RHS Wisley by TALK Knaphill

On 31st July a party of 25 comprising 9 Recoverers (7 in wheelchairs), 10 Volunteers and 6 Carers met at RHS Wisley for a conducted tour of the Garden followed by lunch in the Cafeteria. Despite a forecast of unsettled weather, luck was with us and it was neither wet nor too hot.

Having gathered at the outside cafe for coffee, we then moved into the Garden in ‘less than military style’ but fortunately facilitated by very obliging staff in the entry kiosk. With the combination of RHS memberships and free entry for Carers, only 3 entry fees were charged.

Our guides, Averil and Heather, divided us into two groups and off we set. Not for us the flat and gentle way, but instead our route was to include Wisley’s highest point, the fruit garden. The ‘pain’ of the ascent was all but forgotten, as we admired the delights of Wisley whilst our excellent guides explained the history, concepts, horticulture, geology, educational schemes and entertainment events, etc.

Up past the mixed borders, Battleston Hill, model gardens, on to the fruit garden and then down by the alpine display houses and rock garden. The descent to the New Glasshouse had its moments for our wheeled members (all strictly Health and safety compliant of course Jane!). However we arrived intact and had a brief meander through the tropical and temperate areas before heading back to the Cafeteria. Our route back took us via the Chinese pagoda and the lake with a bit of avian fauna included amongst the flora for added interest

Two members who had strayed from their group, absorbed in the vegetable garden, reappeared for lunch, despite mobile phone exchanges with bad reception, confusing each others’ whereabouts.

The Cafeteria’s oversight to reserve a promised tables for our party was offset by a compensatory gesture of free (non-alcoholic) drinks for everyone and we managed to obtain a fairly close set of tables. All seemed very content with the food and we departed somewhat tired but, I think, happy having seen just a little of RHS Wisley. As the RHS members would I’m sure agree, even if you were to go every day you would never manage to see all of its ever changing displays.

Ben Parker
July 2008

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all photos: Ben Parker