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Frequently Asked Hiring Questions Answered

When may I visit to discuss my needs and to view the premises?
The Garden’s office is open on weekdays 9.15am-4.30pm. Please phone for an appointment with the Chelsea Physic Garden Event Manager on 0207 352 5646.

Are the public here on the day of our event?
On weekdays between 9am and 5pm, the Garden is open to members and is used by children in our education program. Also between April and October this is extended to Sundays too.

To which parts of the Garden do we have access?
If you're hiring the entire Garden, your guests may wander as they please. Only the glasshouses remain closed.

What if it rains?
We advise that for events with over 90 guests a marquee is hired to ensure everyone has space to remain dry.

May I bring my own caterer?
Due to the unique nature of the Garden you must choose from the approved list of caterers.

Can we supply our own alcohol?
This would need to be arranged via your chosen caterer

Can we have music?
Yes as long as it is not incongruous for the surroundings.

May we bring our own florist?
Yes. Florists need to arrange access directly with the Garden.

Are we responsible for security?
Entrance security and locking up on the day or evening of your event is provided by us, as part of your hire fee.

May we bring children?
Yes, but it is very important that children are well supervised, preferably by someone dedicated to that duty. Initially, please discuss with us how many children are expected, and depending on numbers, we may consider it necessary for an extra Duty Manager to be hired.

May we take photographs?
Yes, the Garden is a wonderful venue for photography. Plants may also be photographed, providing the images are not intended for commercial use.

May we hold charity fund-raising events?
Yes, but please discuss the nature of your event with the Chelsea Physic Garden Events Manager.

What are the rules about smoking?
Smoking is permitted outside in the Garden but not in any of the structures on site, please ask your caterer to supply suitable ashtrays.

Does the Garden have access for people with disabilities?
Mostly, our Lecture Room does not have wheelchair access.

What are the cloakroom facilities like?
There are toilet facilities in the entrance foyer and in our Reception Building. You may ask the caterers to supply coat rails for coats and belongings.

May we marry in the Garden itself?
Unfortunately we're not licensed for civil ceremonies to be performed in the Garden.

Will we have a good time?
Yes! Most of our customers are regular uses of the Garden.