91µ¼º½

Courses and workshops FAQs

Answers to the most frequently asked questions about adult learning courses and workshops at our RHS Gardens

Do I need to book a garden admission ticket separately?
Workshop attendees are not required to purchase garden admission in addition to a course/workshop ticket in order to access the garden on the day of your course/workshop.
Do I need to bring my membership card?

There is no requirement to show your membership card if you have a course/workshop ticket, as your visit is recorded under the workshop visitor numbers.

How soon before the course starts should I arrive?

Please arrive at the course venue 15 minutes before the course start time as the workshop will start promptly at the advertised time.

Can I arrive early or stay in the garden after my course?

Yes, you may spend time in the garden on either side of your course or during lunchtime, within normal garden opening times.

If I am unable to come to the course, can I swap to another course, or cancel and have a refund?

Course fees are non-refundable and non-transferable beyond a 48-hour cooling-off period.

Where can I find out about accessibility information at the garden?

All RHS Gardens are keen to support you with mobility and accessibility needs.

See our accessibility information

Please contact the specific RHS Garden directly using the emails in the ‘How do I contact the RHS’ section, if you have any mobility or accessibility needs.

Can I book for someone under 16 years?

To attend a course or workshop, you need to be over 16 years of age unless the advertised course information specifically states otherwise. Learners of age 16 and 17 may attend courses and workshops if accompanied by an adult. The accompanying adult can attend for free as a non-participant.
 
From 2026, each garden will be trailing a small number of workshops specifically for 12-17 years olds to attend with an adult. These workshops are designed to offer a shared learning experience with the focus on the young person and encouraging their journey with plants and interacting with the garden. They will be clearly identified as being for this group of learners, and it is not appropriate for an adult learner to attend without a young person.  

What equipment do I need to bring?

Unless specified in the course information sent to you following your booking, you will not need to bring any equipment. We recommend bringing a notebook and pen or pencil for taking notes, and a digital camera if you wish to take pictures.

Can I book a ticket as a gift or on behalf of someone else?

Yes, you may buy a workshop ticket for someone else. There is an opportunity to enter a different attendee name as part of the booking process. Not all sites currently offer a gift voucher option. Please get in touch with the individual garden if you have any questions about this.

Do RHS members get a discount on RHS courses and workshops?

RHS Members do not get a discount on courses and workshops.

In severe weather, will the courses still go ahead?

Courses would normally go ahead whatever the weather providing the RHS Garden is open and it is safe to do so. In the event of the site closing due to severe weather, courses will not run. We would do our best to contact you via the email address provided when booking, but would advise that you check the relevant RHS Garden page on the RHS website, or social media, or contact the RHS Garden directly before setting out.

Will I get a certificate at the end of the course?

No, our courses and workshops are for leisure and pleasure and are not accredited.

Can I book by phone?

Not all our sites are set up to enable phone bookings. To book a course or workshop, please go via our RHS website Courses and Workshops page, and select the relevant RHS Garden to see the courses available.

Do you have a waiting list for courses that are sold out?

Some RHS Gardens may operate a waiting list. Please get in touch with the specific RHS Garden for more information.

Can I specify my dietary requirements?

If refreshments are included as part of your course and not selected during the booking process, please contact the relevant RHS Garden seven days in advance of your course to ensure we can accommodate your requirements.

Do you have a printed brochure you could send me?

We do not have a printed brochure. All currently available courses are listed on the RHS website.

See our courses and workshops

How do I know if a course is the right level for me?
How do I know if a course is the right level for me?
All workshops from February 2026 have a been given a descriptive level – Beginner, Upskiller, Confident or General.
  • Beginner – I am eager to try growing (painting etc), keen to learn, and to develop my experience and confidence
  • Upskiller – I have mastered the basics of gardening (painting etc) and would like to build on my horticultural (artistic) knowledge and skills
  • Confident – I am a confident gardener (painter etc), looking for specific or further knowledge and skills to meet my needs and interests
  • General – I want to enjoy, discover or learn from this workshop, whatever what my existing skill level
How do I contact the RHS about courses and workshops?

Please email the specific RHS Garden about a course or workshop:
 

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