Thousands of visitors expected for Harrogate Spring Flower Show this week

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Thousands of visitors are set to converge on Harrogate this week as the spring flower show returns to the Great Yorkshire Events Centre tomorrow (Thursday, April 23).

The four-day event, which runs till Sunday (April 26), is the first major flower show of the year.

Organised by the North of England Horticultural Society, it showcases stunning floral displays, inspiring garden features, expert talks and hands-on activities for gardeners of all ages.

This year’s show burst into life this morning, with a press photo call, bringing the theme Let Us Entertain You to life with a riot of colour, creativity and performance, drawing inspiration from the playful world of the fairground and the magic of the circus, which is reflected in some of this year’s floral art pavilion classes.

Taking a starring role in the display is aerialist Natalie Leworthy of Urban Circus – a Harrogate-based studio specialising in aerial performance and physical theatre – who performed high above the ground, suspended on a hoop and adorned with an arrangement of fresh seasonal flowers. 

The floral elements of the costume were created by award-winning florist Helen James, whose shop is on Station Parade in Harrogate.

Beyond the photo call, visitors can explore show gardens, floral displays and extensive plant shopping opportunities featuring leading nurseries and growers from across the UK.

The show also offers live demonstrations, expert gardening advice and interactive experiences for budding gardeners.

Harrogate Flower Shows director Nick Smith said: