06:30, 07 January 2025
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
The Wildlife Trusts are set to unveil a British Rainforest Garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2025, designed by award-winning landscape architect Zoe Claymore.
This immersive garden will recreate the rich, temperate rainforests that once covered much of the west coast of the British Isles, now reduced to just 1% of the land. The project is supported by Aviva and sponsored by Project Giving Back.
The garden's aim is to highlight the importance of these rare ecosystems and encourage public support for their restoration. By showcasing the beauty of these magical woodlands the design seeks to inspire visitors to take action in protecting and revitalising Britain’s native rainforests.
The British Rainforest Garden will feature key elements that reflect nature's resilience, including a raised walkway winding through lush greenery, a dramatic silver birch leaning across the path, and an 8-metre fern and moss wall.
Craig Bennett, CEO of The Wildlife Trusts, commented: “Our goal is to show the wonder of these ecosystems and inspire people to support rainforest restoration efforts. It’s part of a larger mission to tackle the UK's nature and climate crises.”
Designer Zoe Claymore also shared her personal connection to these woodlands, reflecting on how plants have provided healing and connection in her own life. She emphasised the role that home gardens can play in supporting nature restoration, particularly in urban settings.
With Aviva’s partnership, the British Rainforest Garden will encourage visitors to consider how they can contribute to the restoration of temperate rainforests across the UK. The garden will be open for public viewing from Tuesday 20th to Saturday 24th May 2025.
For more information on the ongoing restoration projects, visit The Wildlife Trusts’ Temperate Rainforest Restoration page.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The Wildlife Trusts. This charity focuses on protecting and restoring the UK’s natural habitats with their work to inspire people to connect with nature. Find out more.
British Pteridological Society. This charity is dedicated to the study and conservation of ferns and related plants. It supports research, promotes education, and encourages the appreciation of ferns. Learn more here.
Project Giving Back. This is a UK charity that funds garden and landscape projects designed to raise awareness of environmental and social issues. It supports initiatives that inspire positive change and engage the public in nature conservation and sustainability. Support them here.
