Electric vehicle owners will have the opportunity to charge their cars for free at the renowned RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey from August 24 to August 28, 2026. This complimentary charging period coincides with the official launch of the garden’s new, state-of-the-art electric vehicle (EV) charging hub, a significant development aimed at encouraging sustainable travel among visitors.
New EV Charging Hub Launched at RHS Garden Wisley
The newly operational charging facility, developed in collaboration with RAW Charging, is set to become one of the largest destination EV charging hubs in the Guildford and Wisley area. It features a total of 32 dedicated charging bays designed to cater to a variety of visitor needs. Among these are 24 fast-charging bays, capable of delivering up to 22kW, which are ideal for individuals planning to spend several hours exploring the extensive gardens. Additionally, eight rapid-charging bays offer up to 50kW, providing a quicker battery top-up for those on a tighter schedule.
Strategically located near Junction 10 of the M25 motorway, the hub significantly enhances the availability of public EV charging infrastructure in the region, according to RAW Charging. This installation is part of a broader initiative by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) to install 90 charging bays across its five UK gardens, a key step in its ambitious goal to achieve climate positivity by the year 2030.
Commitment to Sustainable Travel
Malcolm Anderson, head of sustainability at the RHS, highlighted the importance of this new facility. “RHS Garden Wisley is one of the UK’s most visited and best-loved gardens,” he stated. “This major new charging facility reflects our commitment to making sustainable travel easier and more accessible for visitors.”
Beyond the EV chargers, the RHS is actively working with Surrey County Council and public transport operators to improve access to Wisley via active travel and public transport. These efforts include enhancing public rights of way and local bus services, all contributing to lower-carbon travel options and a better experience for environmentally conscious visitors.
Promotional Offer and Access Details
During the launch week, from August 24 to August 28, 2026, the charging services will be free of charge. This promotional offer is exclusively available through the RAW Rewards programme, designed to reward drivers who are making eco-friendly choices. While the charging points normally accept contactless payments, the complimentary charging during this period requires registration with RAW Rewards.
Jason Simpson, CEO of RAW Charging, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. “RHS Garden Wisley is a perfect example of the kind of amazing destinations we’re proud to connect with best-in-class EV infrastructure,” he commented. “This new flagship installation represents one of the largest destination charging hubs in the region, delivering the reliability and convenience visitors expect – all in support of the RHS’s sustainability goals.”
The installation at RHS Garden Wisley is part of RAW Charging’s wider “Connecting Amazing Places” campaign. This campaign involves the deployment of EV charging points at various prominent locations, including sites managed by the National Trust and Merlin Entertainments, such as Alton Towers and Chessington World of Adventures. The overarching aim is to simplify sustainable travel for local residents and visitors, while simultaneously supporting organizations like the RHS in their journey towards environmental targets.
How to Access Free Charging
To take advantage of the free EV charging during the launch week, visitors must first register for the RAW Rewards programme. This can be done online at rawcharging.com/rewards. Once registered, free charging can be accessed through the ChargePoint App. It is important to note that this promotional offer is not available via standard contactless payment methods.
Future of EV Charging at Destination Sites
The introduction of this substantial EV charging hub at RHS Garden Wisley signifies a growing trend of major attractions integrating sustainable infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of their visitors. As more individuals adopt electric vehicles, the demand for convenient and accessible charging points at popular destinations is expected to rise. The RHS and RAW Charging’s collaboration sets a precedent for how heritage sites and large public attractions can support green initiatives and enhance visitor experience simultaneously.
The initiative not only provides a practical benefit to EV owners but also aligns with broader environmental objectives, encouraging a shift towards cleaner transportation methods. By offering free charging during the launch period, the garden aims to attract new visitors and encourage existing patrons to consider electric vehicles for their travel to Wisley. This forward-thinking approach is crucial for institutions aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and promote a more sustainable future.
