A space that's never afraid to push creative boundaries, Sketch has created yet another showstopping floral spectacle for the 11th edition of Sketch in Bloom.
The iconic dining venue just off Regent Street brings a heady mix of blossoms, bold design and playful nods to Jane Austen's world, all wrapped up in true Sketch style, to honour the 250th anniversary of the literary legend.
Everything you need to know about Sketch's Jane Austen floral tribute
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When: 1 May to 1 June 2025
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Opening times: Monday to Saturday from 8.30am, Sunday 8.30am to midnight
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Where: Sketch (9 Conduit Street, Mayfair, W1S 2XG)
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What’s included: Book in for a Jane Austen–themed afternoon tea, a Michelin-starred three-course lunch, or simply reserve a table to soak up the floral magic of Sketch in Bloom.
Sketch in Bloom, brought to life by a line-up of brilliant floral designers, invites visitors into a romantic tribute to one of Britain’s most beloved writers: Jane Austen. This year’s installation transforms Sketch’s neoclassical rooms into a blooming celebration of her world, with nods to Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Emma, and Mansfield Park – celebrating Jane Austen’s love for the British countryside.
A multi-sensory experience at Sketch
From the moment you arrive, Sketch draws you into a botanical dreamworld crafted by designers Lucy Vail, Ricky Paul, and Rob Van Helden.
Lucy Vail Floristry sets the scene with a show-stopping floral arch at the entrance – a cascade of clematis, rose trails, geraniums, daisies and more. Layered with birdsong soundscapes and heady seasonal scents, it’s an immersive step into the English countryside that transports you straight into the pages of Austen’s most beloved novels.
Entrance Hall – immersion into Jane Austen’s works
Visitors are immersed into Jane Austen’s world from the start... a flutter of handwritten pages drifting overhead, leading the way into the Great Hall and Reception. A dreamy mural by artist Meg Boscowen sets the scene – a peaceful countryside stretch where, if you look closely, you might just spot Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy. At the centre, a Regency-style writing desk spills with swirling paper, the perfect spot to pause for a photo and step into her world, where it’s easy to picture Elizabeth beneath a tree, book in hand, lost in thought.
The Glade – an enchanting nod to the English countryside
From the entrance hall, visitors are whisked to another iconic room: The Glade. Building on its tree-inspired design, a new floral canopy is laced with low-hanging umbrellas mirrors the painted landscape on the walls. It’s a scene straight out of Mansfield Park, echoing Austen’s line: “To sit in the shade on a fine day and look upon verdure is the most perfect refreshment.”
It’s the perfect spot to sit back with a drink and take it all in. Don’t miss the rotating mirrors at the corners of the room, revealing hidden details you might not catch at first glance.
The Lecture Room & Library – a blooming showstopper
Step into the Lecture Room & Library and you’re met with this year’s undeniable showstopper: a dreamy wisteria tree, standing tall at the centre of the room as if it’s always belonged there. Designed by Rob Van Helden, it’s made with real bark and moss, with cascades of lilac blooms. Tucked around the tree are stacks of books, a nod to Jane’s literary world. It’s the kind of setting you’d expect to find her characters wandering into.
When I asked Rob Van Helden how long the flowers would stay in bloom, he chuckled and answered, “for as long as the exhibition lasts.” Turns out, his team spent four hours hand-tying satin wisteria blooms to the branches. The result? A spellbinding display set to stay in place all month long.
The iconic egg loos - reimagined with a floral twist
It wouldn’t be a full Sketch experience without a visit to the iconic pod loos – this time reimagined by Ricky Paul with a floral tribute to Jane Austen. As you climb the stairs, take a moment to take it all in: cascading wisteria, delicate floral arrangements lining the staircase, and a heady, striking scent that instantly transports you into the heart of an English garden.
At the centre of the pod space sits a sculptural installation made of moss and twisting vines, representing Jane Austen – surrounded by books and wild blooms.
Before you leave, don’t forget the all-important selfie in the bathroom – those egg-shaped loos and that bright, kaleidoscopic ceiling never fail to impress.
More than just flowers
Sketch in Bloom 2025 is more than a visual feast – it’s a multi-sensory celebration. Alongside the spellbinding floral installations, this year’s edition introduces a series of exclusive, Austen-inspired culinary experiences.
Indulge in a Jane Austen Afternoon Tea (£115 per person), where delicate mini-cakes, assorted sandwiches, and flower-infused teas bring a touch of elegance to the table. Or book a Michelin-starred three-course lunch (£150 per person) in the Lecture Room & Library – a gastronomic journey set within the exhibition’s most enchanting bloom.
Don’t miss the limited-edition cocktail menu served across Sketch’s bars – each drink draws inspiration from Austen’s characters, blending botanicals with refreshing floral flavours.
Five floral must-sees in London this May
- Kew Gardens
This may, Kew Gardens is spectacularly in bloom with the Rhododendron Dell bursting into life, showcasing a variety of rhododendron species. Or head to the old woodland in the Natural Area, home to one of London’s most impressive bluebell displays. - Tower of London poppy display (6 May-11 November)
Commemorate 80 years since VE day at the Tower of London and admire the 30, 000 poppies decorating the Tower’s grounds. The Tower Remembers display is accessible with a standard entry ticket. - RHS Chelsea Flower Show (20–24 May)
Experience RHS Chelsea Flower Show, London’s ultimate spring event, with some of the most renowned designer and florists giving their all with innovative garden displays, flower compositions and exhibits. - Chelsea in Bloom (19-25 May)
Chelsea transforms into an elegant runway for the annual Chelsea in Bloom. This year’s theme, “Flowers in Fashion” brings the neighbourhood to life with displays inspired by fashion’s most iconic moments. - Hampton Court Palace Tulip Festival (Until 5 May)
Head to Henry VIII’s former Tudor palace, where the grounds are bursting with vibrant tulips during the annual Tulip Festival. The display rivals the famous tulip fields of the Netherlands, making it a must-see before it ends.
Looking for more gardens to explore? Head to one of London's royal parks and gardens this spring, where vibrant and peaceful nature awaits, making it the perfect escape within the city.