In the Walt Disney classic Alice in Wonderland, Alice famously sings "You can learn a lot of things from the flowers especially in the month of June."

Well we may be two days into July but when I got a sneak preview of Hampton Court Palace's Flower Show (it opens to the public tomorrow), I found that July is just as good a time as June to learn about flowers.

The trade stands are as impressive as the flowers. From statues of elephants spurting water from their trunks to an 'Urban Oasis' corner, complete with washing hanging out to dry, the whole event is a feast for the eyes.

But the 'Alice' in me thought that the Garden Cottages display was by far the best. When I peered inside I did not find the White Rabbit but Tim Clark who, along with his father Brian, builds what I can only describe as every little girl's (and lady's inner little girl) dream.

Garden Cottages pride themselves on using 100% sustainable materials for their magnificent 'cottages'. When speaking to Tim he tells me that they are perfect as a "shed, studio or a summerhouse."

But with a miniature front door and timbre build, I like to imagine them being used as a playhouse with the sound of Mad Hatter tea parties and laughter filling the air.

The RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show is on from 3-8 July. For more information and tickets visit www.rhs.org.uk/hamptoncourt

For more information on Garden Cottages visit www.garden-cottages.co.uk

Words by Melonie Clarke