Exhibition opens to celebrate garden's history

An exhibition into the Victorian history of a Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) owned garden has opened to the public.

Before its purchase in 1903, RHS Wisley, in Surrey, it existed as a muddy landscape.

It became the project of George Fergusson Wilson, who used his passion for science, plants and innovation and laid the foundations for what it is now.

Through early photos, maps and archive material, the exhibition traces the origins and development of the garden.

The exhibition explores how landscapes have been reshaped, buildings constructed, altered or removed, and planting styles adapted over time.

It also highlights the people whose lives have been intertwined with the site.

RHS exhibitions and events manager, Fe Story, said: "The pioneering RHS gardens at Wisley have seen many changes over their long history, and that experimental spirit has been there from the very beginning."

The exhibition runs until 31 January 2027.

Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, on X. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.