A Royal Surprise Unfolds in Monty Don’s Garden—You Have to See This

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2025 welcomed some very special guests this year—King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Their visit wasn’t just ceremonial; it was filled with meaning, heartfelt tributes, and a celebration of nature, sustainability, and of course, dogs.

One of the highlights of their royal tour was the new RHS and BBC Radio 2 Dog Garden, a space specially designed by gardening icon Monty Don with help from his faithful dog, Ned. This garden stands out as the first of its kind at Chelsea to be created with dogs in mind. It features open grassy areas for play, plenty of shade from a large central tree, and design elements tailored to our four-legged companions.

A touching feature of the garden was the brick path, engraved with the names of beloved dogs close to the royals and other public figures. Among them were Bluebell and Moley, Queen Camilla’s two adopted Jack Russell Terriers. The name of Beth, her dearly missed companion who passed away in 2024, was also included. King Charles’ dog, Snuff, an Italian truffle-hunting breed called a Lagotto Romagnolo, was honored as well. Monty Don’s dog Ned and other dogs loved by RHS Ambassadors and BBC Radio 2 presenters were also part of this heartfelt tribute, highlighting the special role dogs play in people’s lives and gardens.

Queen Camilla has long been a champion for animal welfare. She has served as a patron for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home since 2016, following in Queen Elizabeth II’s footsteps. In February 2025, she adopted Moley from Battersea, not long after losing Beth. Bluebell, another Battersea rescue, joined the royal household in 2012 after being found alone in a park and nursed back to health.

The story doesn’t end at Chelsea. After the show, the Dog Garden will be moved across the Thames to the Battersea animal shelter, where rescue dogs and the team caring for them can enjoy it for years to come.

During their visit, the King and Queen also explored a variety of other gardens. One that stood out was the British Rainforest Garden, designed by Zoe Claymore for The Wildlife Trusts. This immersive display recreates the wet woodlands that once covered much of the west coast of Britain. It also shines a spotlight on a 100-year rainforest restoration initiative led by The Wildlife Trusts in partnership with Aviva.

Zoe Claymore had a special moment with the King, who complimented the garden and noted his love for ferns—unsurprising, given his role as President of the British Pteridological Society. He was also impressed by the use of reclaimed materials and the commitment to sustainable, peat-free gardening.

Another meaningful stop for King Charles was The King’s Trust Garden: Seeding Success, designed by Joe Perkins. This garden symbolizes the growth and resilience of young people, especially those supported by The King’s Trust, formerly known as The Prince’s Trust. Plants thriving in tough conditions mirror how youth can flourish with the right care and encouragement.

The visit also included a warm moment with David Beckham, a global ambassador for The King’s Foundation, who met King Charles at the Highgrove Shop stand. The former football star also caught up with Alan Titchmarsh, another familiar face and ambassador. Sales from this stand help support young people pursuing careers in horticulture.

A floral tribute to King Charles came in the form of a brand-new rose variety, unveiled by David Austin Roses and named ‘The King’s Rose’, in honor of His Majesty. The Queen was especially delighted by it, noting that it reminded her of Rosa Mundi, a traditional rose she admires—though this version is said to be an improvement in both form and scent.

Before ending their visit, the Queen took time to speak with plant specialists and walk through The Great Pavilion, where another first took place. For the first time in the show’s 112-year history, a display focused on funeral floristrywas featured, created by The Farewell Flowers Directory. It offered a fresh perspective on how flowers play a role in mourning and remembrance.

The royal visit to RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2025 was more than a tour—it was a celebration of life, growth, loss, and legacy, blending tradition with a hopeful look toward the future.