Although RHS Wisley is fairly local we only joined after visiting the brilliant butterfly exhibition last year as it wasn’t much more to pay for membership(entry fees are refunded when you join on the day). The big bonus is that the main member (if you have a joint membership) can take a friend or relative along for free which can make for a cheap day out!
The standard and quality of food in the various cafés is excellent especially the jacket potatoes and very tempting “naughty but nice” range of cakes. So many to choose from, not that I have ever succumbed to temptation, but the Bakewell tart is delicious, well, so I am told! (yes my pants may well be on fire!)
I have visited a number of times this year. The most memorable was in August for the amazing scarecrow exhibition and for the stunning flower beds which attracted so many bees and butterflies. I didn’t know where to point my camera lens next! (see photos) The latest visit last week was to meet up with an old friend for a quiet “walk ‘n talk” around the gardens but we didn’t realise there was a foodie exhibition on so it was packed! Some of the stalls were so good however that we did part with some cash. Definitely recommend the Gran Stead's ginger wine we bought!
Although there are no other RHS properties in the Surrey area you are sent details of gardens. The main member (if you are joint members) can enter for free at certain times of the year. Also there are offers for the RHS flower shows such as Hampton Court etc.. Due to the fact that there is always something going on at RHS Wisley and each season is so different I think it’s well worth the membership fees!
Lots of easily accessible places for disabled visitors & those with walking difficulties but there are certain areas which would be 'out of bounds' e.g. the "terraced" rock gardens.
