RHS Garden Wisley

About RHS Garden Wisley

In 1878 the businessman, inventor and RHS Treasurer George Fergusson Wilson bought land at Wisley and began an experimental garden he called Oakwood, trying to grow plants that were difficult elsewhere. After his death, Sir Thomas Hanbury, creator of La Mortola on the Italian Riviera, bought the estate and gave it to the Royal Horticultural Society in 1903. The Society moved its garden here from Chiswick in 1904.

Only a small part of the original estate was gardened at first. Wisley now covers about 240 acres and remains the RHS's main garden, with a strong focus on plant trials, science and teaching alongside its display areas.

What to see

• The Glasshouse: opened in 2007, with desert, tropical and temperate zones, set in naturalistic borders by Piet Oudolf.
• Rock garden and alpine meadow: alpine plants set among rocks on a sloping site.
• Battleston Hill: rhododendrons and azaleas under trees, colourful in late spring.
• Jellicoe Canal: a formal canal with water lilies in summer.
• RHS Hilltop: the science centre opened in 2021, surrounded by gardens themed on wildlife, wellbeing and food.
• Trials field: rows of new plants under assessment.

Planning your visit

Wisley is just off the A3, south of junction 10 of the M25, between Cobham and Ripley. Parking is free. Visitors arriving without a car get about 30% off adult entry, with proof on arrival.

There is a garden centre, a library, several places to eat, and free daily talks at Hilltop. Mobility scooters and wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge. Part of the Glasshouse is closed for maintenance into mid November, so check the website before travelling if that is the main reason for your visit.