Collection: Rose

The history of the use of roses and rose essential oil in the UK dates back centuries. Roses have been cultivated in the UK since Roman times, and their beauty and fragrance have captivated people throughout history.

In medieval times, roses were highly prized and cultivated in monastic gardens for their medicinal and culinary uses. Rose petals were used to create perfumes, oils, and ointments, while rosewater was a popular ingredient in cooking and baking.

During the Renaissance period, roses became symbols of luxury and extravagance. The Tudor monarchs, such as Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I, were known for their love of roses and their use in royal gardens. The Wars of the Roses, a series of civil wars in the 15th century, were even named after the competing factions' emblems, the white rose of York and the red rose of Lancaster.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, rose gardens became popular features in English country estates and Victorian gardens. The British Empire's expansion brought roses and rose essential oil from far-flung places like India, Persia, and Bulgaria, where the Damask rose and Rosa centifolia varieties were cultivated for their exquisite fragrances.

During the Victorian era, rose essential oil gained popularity as an ingredient in perfumes, cosmetics, and soaps. The demand for rose oil led to the establishment of rose farms in the UK, particularly in the county of Surrey, where the climate was suitable for growing roses. These farms produced rose oil through a process of steam distillation, which extracted the fragrant compounds from the rose petals.

Today, the use of roses and rose essential oil continues to be prominent in the UK. Roses are widely grown in gardens, and rose essential oil is still valued for its therapeutic properties in aromatherapy and skincare. The UK is also home to several renowned rose gardens, such as the Royal National Rose Society Gardens and the RHS Rosemoor Garden, where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty and fragrance of these timeless flowers.

In conclusion, the history of the use of roses and rose essential oil in the UK is a rich and enduring tradition that spans centuries. From their medicinal and culinary uses in medieval times to their symbolic significance in royal gardens and the Victorian era, roses have played a significant role in British culture and continue to be cherished today.