Express & Star

Albrighton's David Austin Roses wins Gold medal at Chelsea Flower Show Awards

Albrighton's own distinguished rose experts at David Austin Roses have won a gold medal at the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show Awards.

Published
Last updated

Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565

David Austin Roses, based in Albrighton, was awarded a floral Gold medal for its secret garden-themed display.

The stand is the largest the brand has ever created at the show and boasts more than 50 different varieties.

The King is welcomed by David Austin of David Austin Roses.
The King is welcomed by David Austin of David Austin Roses.

It was celebrated by Royal Horticultural Society (RSH) judges for its exquisite beauty and unmistakable craftsmanship.

As part of this week's show the company unveiled its spectacular new 'King’s Rose', created as a tribute to King Charles III - and Queen Camilla was seen enjoying a bunch at the show on Monday (May 19).

Everyone adores the flowers by David Austin Roses - and this one has been in the making for 12 years. Pictured is Queen Camilla smiling as she smells "The King's Rose". Photo: Toby Melville/PA Wire
Everyone adores the flowers by David Austin Roses - and this one has been in the making for 12 years. Pictured is Queen Camilla smiling as she smells 'The King's Rose'. Photo: Toby Melville/PA Wire

David Beckham, who has shared his love for David Austin Roses a number of times, was also at the event as an ambassador for the King's Foundation.

King Charles III meets David Austin Roses' enthusiast David Beckham during the show. Photo: Paul Grover/Daily Telegraph/PA Wire
King Charles III meets David Austin Roses enthusiast David Beckham during the show. Photo: Paul Grover/Daily Telegraph/PA Wire

After securing the gold award, David JC Austin, chairman of David Austin Roses, said: “Winning our 29th gold medal at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2025 is a true testament to the dedication and skill of our entire team. 

"From the growers who nurture each rose to perfection over the 12-year breeding process, to the events team who design a stand that brings the vision to life, this achievement reflects the commitment to excellence that goes into every David Austin rose.

David Beckham visited the garden.
David Beckham visited the garden.

“While our displays always attract much interest from gardeners keen to see the new variety in the flesh, this year’s unveiling offers a unique opportunity to be among the first to see the prestigious rose that has been grown in His Majesty’s private gardens for the past three years.

"We invite everyone attending the show this year to visit us in the Great Pavilion and join us for this historic moment.” 

Queen Camilla with "The King's Rose" by David Austin Roses. Photo: Toby Melville/PA Wire
Queen Camilla with 'The King's Rose' by David Austin Roses. Photo: Toby Melville/PA Wire

A true sensory delight, the immersive circular design for the award-winning display provides guests with the chance to be among the first to see ‘The King’s Rose,’ inviting them to wander through archways of rambling roses before discovering the new variety nestled in the centre of the stand. 

Upon entering through the archways caressed by popular climbing varieties like ‘Paul’s Himalayan Musk’, ‘Rambling Rector’ and ‘Ghislaine de Féligonde’, guests are enveloped in the breathtaking beauty and fragrance of the blooms, before being greeted by the latest and arguably most prestigious variety to join the David Austin Roses family.

The company's stunning display has secured a gold medal.
The company's stunning display has secured a gold medal.

The new King's Rose produces semi-double, repeat-flowering blooms that appear in profusion, with at least 20 buds per stem.

Its delicately papery petals boast distinct stripes in shades of fuchsia pink and white, creating an almost hand-painted look reminiscent of old Gallica roses.

Its light-medium Musk fragrance will envelop admirers with hints of fresh apple and rose water, with a beautiful warmth coming from soft clove notes.

A versatile and robust shrub that grows to approximately three to four feet tall, it has a vase-shaped growth habit and heart-shaped leaves, with vibrant yellow stems to attract pollinators. 

As part of the collaboration with The King's Foundation, David Austin Roses will donate £2.50 from every sale to support the foundation’s work. David Austin said: "This gesture reflects our shared commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability, and a deep respect for the natural world."

Queen Camilla speaking with David Austin of David Austin Roses. Photo: Toby Melville/PA Wire
Queen Camilla speaking with David Austin of David Austin Roses. Photo: Toby Melville/PA Wire