The Blooming British Weather Fails To Dampen Guildford In Bloom’s Big Event

Published on: 7 Jun, 2026
Updated on: 7 Jun, 2026

The Mayor, Cllr Jane Tyson (second from left), opens Guildford’s new bee houses in the Castle Grounds. With her are Sallie Barker and also Andy Bowen-Ashwin and Damon Bowen-Ashwin, both leading figures in the Rotary Club of Guildford Wey

The weather did its worst – but nothing could stop the annual picnic held to celebrate Guildford In Bloom from going ahead.

The Blooming Picnic has been held in the Castle Grounds on the first Saturday in June for many years now. After last year’s cancellation due to bad weather, the organisers were determined to go ahead this year despite the gloomy forecast.

The rains and the heavy winds came, but the people who turned up were rewarded with a great programme of performers and a warm community spirit.

Sallie Barker, chair of Guildford in Bloom, said afterwards: “It was great to see so many people supporting us despite the weather, especially those who come every year.”

The rain came – but it couldn’t spoil the community spirit

Majella Yorston – one of the entertainers performing in the Bandstand

Sallie Barker expressed her thanks to all those individuals and organisations who took part. Guildford Fringe organised the performers, who included Charlotte Hillman, Majella Yorston and Karl Sonoy at the Bandstand. And Rock Choir performed in the Tunsgate Quarter.

Stalls were organised by Experience Guildford, Guildford Book Festival, Guildford Museum, Surrey Wildlife Trust and the Pranksters, and there were numerous activities for children.

The event was opened by the Mayor of Guildford, Cllr Jane Tyson, who also opened the Castle Grounds flower beds beforehand along with new bee houses erected by the Rotary Club of Guildford Wey.