There’s nothing better than having an old fashioned garden party, my friend Kath recently hosted a delicious afternoon tea birthday party, with scones and clotted cream, Violet Kir’s and the obligatory cucumber sandwiches.

And with the summer weather starting to flag, why not make the most of it and attend a garden party with a difference!?

The Prince of Wales is joining forces with fashionistas, environmental experts, musicians and comedians. The Prince cordially invites you to the opening of his gardens at Clarence House and neighbouring gardens of Lancaster and Marlborough House.

If you don’t know your hibiscus from you’re rhododendrons, and don’t give a pansy either, don’t worry - there’s plenty to keep you entertained. This 12 day unique festival has an intriguing blend of exhibitions, interactive displays, fun activities and live performances.  With a famous celebrity championing an area, you can celebrity spot at the same time.

These include:

• Fashion by Dame Vivienne Westwood
• Food and The Great Outdoors by Kate Humble
• Comedy by Marcus Brigstocke and Hugh Dennis
• Musical Programme created by Jools Holland
• Debate by Jonathan Dimbleby, Sanjeev Bhaskar & Clive Anderson
• Growing and Gardens by Alan Titchmarsh
• Ecocars by Roger Saul and Kevin McCloud

Part of the ‘Start’ campaign which was launched in February, the initiative has the vision and objective to ‘present an inspiring picture of a sustainable future’ by showing people how to make positive changes.

So if you fancy putting on a summer dress and learning how to be more ‘green’, water efficient and sustainable for the future then be quintessentially English for the day.  Who knows, you might kiss a frog that’ll turn into a prince!
            
8-19th September
10am start, last entry at 16.30 (event closes daily at 18.00)
Tickets: £15 for adults and £7.50 for children

www.startgardenparty.co.uk