Footballing legend Sir David Beckham is swapping the pitch for the potting shed, as it's been announced he will help design a garden for The King's Foundation at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2026.
From Football Star to Gardening Ambassador
The former Manchester United and England star will collaborate with horticulturist and Gardeners' World presenter Frances Tophill on the project. Sir David's involvement comes in his role as an ambassador for The King's Foundation, the charity which is partnering with the Royal Horticultural Society for this special garden.
The design, named The RHS and The King's Foundation Curious Garden, has a clear mission: to spark public curiosity about gardening and highlight the essential role plants play in the health of people, communities, and the planet.
Inspiring a Love for Nature
Sir David, who has previously shared his passion for the outdoors on social media, explained the roots of his interest. "My love for the countryside started when I was a child visiting my grandparents," he said. "I've experienced how rewarding gardening can be and that's why I'm looking forward to working with The RHS and The King's Foundation."
He added a hopeful note for the project's impact: "I hope we inspire people to get outside into nature and to try something new."
Frances Tophill expressed her excitement about bringing her first Chelsea garden to life, stating it would allow her to "explore my own curiosity about plants and their vital role in bringing health to people and to planet."
A Project with Far-Reaching Impact
The initiative, set for the flower show running from May 19 to 23, 2026, will also see involvement from broadcasting veteran Alan Titchmarsh. He emphasised that the garden will not only celebrate the joy of gardening but also showcase how growing plants helps tackle the biodiversity and climate crises.
The project will have a strong educational and community focus, reflecting the core work of The King's Foundation. Garden apprentices and trainees from both the Foundation and the RHS will be invited to participate.
Furthermore, the garden will celebrate the specialist traditional skills, such as woodwork, of the Foundation's students and graduates, showcasing sustainable craftsmanship alongside horticultural excellence.
