Royal Horticultural Society “In Bloom”

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) supports an initiative known as “In Bloom”. The main focus of “In Bloom” is an annual competition which is entered by cities, towns and villages across the UK and is divided into categories so only communities of a similar size compete against each other. RHS judging takes place each Summer, however the entrant is expected to show year-round activity. All entrants are assessed for their achievements in three core areas: horticulture, environmental responsibility and community participation.

The awards granted follow the RHS medal standards of Gold, Silver-Gilt, Silver and Bronze. There are also a series of judge’s discretionary awards to highlight outstanding achievements in a variety of areas.

The first stage of entering is for communities to take part in regional heats with Bath being included in the South West in Bloom region which extends from Wiltshire to Cornwall and the Scilly Isles. The judging criteria is the same as for the national finals. For further information see the RHS South West in Bloom website at https://southwestinbloom.org.uk/Main-Competition.aspx

As well as the City of Bath, there are also various towns and villages entering the South West in Bloom competition from the Bath and North East Somerset district.

There is also the RHS “It’s Your Neighbourhood” scheme for volunteer community groups. See our Community section for all the details about Bath’s IYNs