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Nestled away in leafy Twickenham, Strawberry Hill House is a gorgeous white castle that looks like something out of a Tim Burton movie. It's a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, rich with stories woven through its past residents, a unique collection, and remarkable restoration. And next month, it's getting a magical makeover, just in time for its seventh annual Flower Festival.
Running from September 12–14, the Strawberry Hill Flower Festival is turning the entire castle into a full-blown fairytale floral wonderland, thanks to over 50 of the UK's pioneering floral artists. This year's theme is "The Faery Tale Castle", which means you're right to expect spellbound staircases, witch's perfumeries, flying carpets, and floral installations.
It's been curated by Gaia Elkington of Gaia Eros Florals and festival founder Leigh Chappell and is all about using flowers as tools for storytelling. The artists are creating large, immersive pieces that respond to the gothic architecture and rich history of the house, think giant spiders in the garden, goblin markets, and tree-covered staircases.
Besides the installations, the three-day event also features lots to get stuck into, from flower arranging workshops, after-hours tours and talks, and even a candlelit gothic castle tour. If you're a fan of gardens or castles, this is one to put in your calendar.
It's also fully sustainable, with any leftovers going straight to the compost heap, and participating florists are tasked with creating "beauty that leaves no trace."
The festival runs for just three days, and to help preserve this Grade I listed gem, ticket numbers are limited, so booking in advance is highly recommended.