After having two back-to-back private clients for six days, I can truly say that I have had my tulip fix for the year. I was excited to get back to Longwood as it’s been quite awhile since I’ve been there. I used to run tons of workshops there, especially in the spring and at Christmas. Longwood has changed their rules since then and have implemented “timed tickets” which is sort of a pain, but they did need to do something about the crowds. They also have a “no re-entry” policy that I think is completely bogus. If you forget something in the car or just want to take a break and go have lunch somewhere else—you can’t. Once you leave, whether you are a member or not (during sold out timed tickets) you cannot re-enter the gardens. Ugh… to me that is wrong. I understand they do this as another measure to keep the crowds down…but really?????
Anyway, even with the rules as they are, it is still totally worth a visit. But, I would not travel a distance without checking to see if you need timed tickets-even if you are a member. They also don’t open until 10:00am but if you are a member you can get in an hour earlier on the weekends. Best to check their policies and hours of operation before heading there.
I thought that Longwood’s tulip displays were exceptional this year and we got there just in time to see them at their peak. If you enter the gardens and head to the right you will be overwhelmed with the plantings. Another large planting of tulips is in the Idea Garden. Best to take a picture of the map as you enter to find your way around. There are plenty of workers, volunteers and security throughout the gardens. There is a lovely café with the best cream of mushroom soup I have ever had.
The conservatory was ok, but just ok. There were gorgeous delphinium, orchids and hydrangeas but nothing else was that spectacular. The orchid room was over-crowded and it was impossible to photograph in there for any length of time. Longwood is under construction, they really do need to build more indoor spaces and plant more tulip beds to distribute the visitors. Nowadays, anywhere you go is crowded.
I used my Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds Digital Camera and my Olympus ED 12-40mm f/2.8, handheld, natural light for all of these images. I also used a 12” reflector whenever possible or needed. Our conditions were full sun to slight rain, so we had a variety of different lighting conditions during the six days. It could not have been more perfect for our photography.
A special thanks to Pam C. and Glenn D. for coming on this adventure to Longwood Gardens with me and allowing me to share my vision with you. I hope you both enjoyed your time in the gardens as much as I did.
