Adam Frost’s Surprising Aversion: Why He Can’t Stand Oversized Outdoor Chess Sets

Adam Frost Reveals His Surprising Aversion to Outdoor Chess Sets

In a recent appearance on Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch, BBC’s Gardeners’ World presenter Adam Frost stirred up a lively discussion about garden aesthetics, revealing a surprising disdain for one popular outdoor feature: oversized plastic chess sets.

During the show, hosted by Tim Lovejoy and Simon Rimmer, Frost was there to promote his new podcast collaboration with Caitlin Moran. However, the conversation took an unexpected turn when Lovejoy broached the topic of garden decor, specifically the giant chess sets that have become a staple in many outdoor spaces.

“I absolutely cannot stand those massive, plastic chess sets,” Frost declared emphatically. “You go to a hotel, or even people put them in their garden! They pave a huge area, and they have these plastic chess pieces that slowly change color. Really, kids just use them to attack each other.”

Frost’s critique didn’t stop there. He offered an alternative approach for those looking to enjoy a game of chess outdoors: “If you want to play chess in your garden, buy a board, a set, take it out into the garden around a table with a nice drink. Civilised. Don’t do that plastic, no.”

When Lovejoy suggested that the giant pieces created an “immersive experience,” Frost was quick to reject the notion. “That’s not immersive! How is that immersive? No. It’s a complete and utter waste of space,” he insisted.

Even swimmer Mark Foster’s suggestion to view the oversized pieces as garden art installations fell flat with Frost. He recounted a past experience from his early landscaping days, where a client requested a checkerboard paving pattern for their garden. “I refused, very politely. I just couldn’t do it. It’s just a no,” he said.

This candid discussion comes on the heels of Frost’s recent emotional journey of relocating from his previous home, a process he described as complex yet rewarding. Reflecting on his past garden, now enjoyed by new owners, he expressed a sense of fulfillment: “Maybe you’ve just left somebody else a whole load of joy.”

As the gardening community continues to evolve, Frost’s strong opinions remind us that not all trends are universally embraced. For those considering adding a touch of whimsy to their gardens, it seems the oversized chess set might not be the way to go—at least according to Adam Frost.

Catch Adam Frost and the rest of the Gardeners’ World team on BBC, and tune into Sunday Brunch every Sunday at 10 AM on Channel 4.