Kew Palace London
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Kew Palace London

4.6
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

A charming red-brick royal residence within the vast, world-renowned Royal Botanic Gardens, offering a glimpse into history and nature.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays (Tue & Thu)

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Kew Palace London

Kew Palace London

Best Time

Weekdays (Tue & Thu)

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming red-brick royal residence within the vast, world-renowned Royal Botanic Gardens, offering a glimpse into history and nature.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"Step back in time at Kew Palace and explore the breathtaking beauty of the Royal Botanic Gardens."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Park Smarter

Consider parking at the old deer car park in Richmond for an easier approach to the Lion Gate.

🧺 Picnic Perfection

Grab sandwiches from Marks & Spencer for a delightful picnic in the gardens.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Untouched Royal Kitchens

Untouched Royal Kitchens

Basement level of Kew Palace

Step back in time to see remarkably preserved 200-year-old kitchens, offering a glimpse into royal culinary life.

The Dutch House

The Dutch House

Kew Palace

Discover the original 17th-century core of the palace, a charming red-brick building with a rich history.

Queen Charlotte's Cottage

Queen Charlotte's Cottage

Kew Gardens

A charming, rustic retreat offering a contrast to the palace's grandeur, set within the beautiful gardens.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit

To avoid the biggest crowds at Kew Palace, aim for weekdays, especially Tuesdays and Thursdays. Weekends can get busy, but the vast grounds of Kew Gardens mean it rarely feels overwhelmingly crowded. Consider visiting during off-peak hours, like right at opening or later in the afternoon, to enjoy a more serene experience.

Combine with Kew Gardens Exploration

Kew Palace is nestled within the expansive Royal Botanic Gardens. While the palace itself is smaller, dedicating time to explore the gardens is essential for a full experience. Plan for at least half a day, or even a full day, to truly appreciate both the historic residence and the stunning botanical collections.

Best Times

When
Weekdays (Tue & Thu)
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
November
Why
Christmas lights, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

10 tips for those of you who are planning their trip to London this Christmas 🎄 ♥️ If you come in November most xmas lights will be on and it’s cheaper and less crowded ✨ Go on a light trail at Kew Ga...
@pretty.little.london
700.3K likes • 13M views

🚗 Park Smarter

Consider parking at the old deer car park in Richmond for an easier approach to the Lion Gate. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Perfection

Grab sandwiches from Marks & Spencer for a delightful picnic in the gardens. Reddit

Kew Palace is a former royal residence within the grounds of Kew Gardens. Originally a large complex, the Dutch House (pictured) is one of the few surviving elements. The Dutch House was built in 163...
young_preservationist
171 likes • 0 views
Kraliyet saraylarının en küçüğü ile tanışmaya hazır mısın?🧡Kew Palace, aslında 1600’lü yıllarda Londra’daki zengin bir ipek tüccarı için dönemin modasına uygun bir şekilde inşa edilmiş. Sarayın zarafe...
londradanbildiriyor
157 likes • 0 views

🚶‍♀️ Riverside Stroll

Enjoy a scenic walk along the Richmond riverside after your visit. Reddit

☕ Local Cafe Charm

Try 'Maids of Honour' near Kew Gardens for cream teas and local treats. Reddit

Kew Palace найменший з усіх королівських палаців. King George II & Queen Caroline вперше вподобали Kew Palace для своїх старших дочок. Згодом ще кілька поколінь королів використовували затишний палац ...
victoria.kukla.77
69 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Park Smarter

Consider parking at the old deer car park in Richmond for an easier approach to the Lion Gate. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Perfection

Grab sandwiches from Marks & Spencer for a delightful picnic in the gardens. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Riverside Stroll

Enjoy a scenic walk along the Richmond riverside after your visit. Reddit

☕ Local Cafe Charm

Try 'Maids of Honour' near Kew Gardens for cream teas and local treats. Reddit

👑 Royal History Tour

Don't miss the Royal Kitchens tour, especially on a Friday afternoon! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Kew Palace and Gardens for their stunning beauty, historical significance, and family-friendly atmosphere. The well-preserved kitchens and the vast, diverse gardens are consistently highlighted as major draws. Some find the palace itself smaller than expected, but the overall experience within the gardens is overwhelmingly positive.

"So much to see. A must visit. Variety of gardens to explore. The greenhouses and palm house are a must visit. There is a variety of eateries to choose from. Make sure you spend a whole day there you will still not see everything"

Tony Jackson

"Free entry- worth a visit! staff were friendly and helpful. No elevators (stairs only), however well preserved/presented and a very interesting walk around."

Winston C

"Free walk in museum (you still have to pay for your Kew Gardens ticket to access). It's small with limited capacity, during peak hours you will need to wait before you can enter. Suggest going to the toilet beside this first before entering.

This 3-storey palace is quite modest given that the royals used to stay here. Plenty of artifacts intact with the first 2 floors renovated to show how it was when Queen Charlotte and King George were living there.
The third level was left in its condition before refurbishment."

Tan Kai Ren

What People Like

Beautiful botanical gardens
Historic Royal Kitchens
Family-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Palace size smaller than expected

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kew Palace is easily accessible via the London Underground (District Line to Kew Gardens station) or by Overground train to Kew Bridge. Buses also serve the area. Many visitors find the Tube the most convenient option. TikTok

Driving is possible, but parking can be challenging and expensive. Some Reddit users suggest parking at the old deer car park in Richmond and walking, which is about a 15-20 minute stroll. Reddit

If you're staying in Richmond, the riverside walk is a pleasant option. Alternatively, public transport from Richmond station can get you to Kew Gardens. Reddit

One Reddit user noted that the Premier Inn on Lower Richmond Road might be noisy due to its location on a busy main road and isn't considered 'Kew' itself. Consider alternative areas like Chiswick or Turnham Green for a quieter base. Reddit

Yes, you can take the Piccadilly Line from Heathrow to Acton Town, then change to the District Line towards Richmond, alighting at Kew Gardens station. This is a straightforward journey. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It's highly recommended to book your tickets for Kew Palace and Gardens online in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee entry and potentially save time. TikTok

Kew Palace opening hours vary seasonally and are generally aligned with the Royal Botanic Gardens. Always check the official Kew Gardens website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. TikTok

Yes, general admission to Kew Gardens typically includes access to Kew Palace. However, it's always best to verify this when purchasing your tickets, as special exhibitions might have separate charges. Reddit

Kew Gardens often offers concessions for seniors, students, and children. Check their website for details on family tickets and any special offers. TikTok

Kew Palace is located within the grounds of the Royal Botanic Gardens, so general admission to the gardens is required to access the palace. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

To fully enjoy both Kew Palace and the vast gardens, plan for at least half a day. Many visitors spend a full day exploring everything. Reddit

Yes, Kew Palace and Gardens are very family-friendly. There's a great kids' play area, and the gardens offer plenty of space to explore. Reddit

Beyond Kew Palace, don't miss the Palm House, the Treetop Walkway, the Princess of Wales Conservatory, and the Japanese 'Pagoda'. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are often available, particularly for the Royal Kitchens, offering deeper insights into the palace's history. Check the schedule upon arrival. Reddit

While Kew Gardens is large, it rarely feels overwhelmingly crowded, especially on weekdays. The palace itself can be more intimate. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Within Kew Gardens, there are several cafes and restaurants offering a range of options, from light snacks to full meals. The Orangery and White Peaks are popular choices. Reddit

Absolutely! Kew Gardens is a fantastic spot for a picnic. Many visitors bring their own food and find lovely spots to enjoy it. Reddit

There are cafes within Kew Gardens, and the nearby village of Kew also has local coffee shops. 'Maids of Honour' is a well-regarded cafe for tea and cakes. Reddit

The cafes and restaurants within Kew Gardens generally offer a variety of options, including vegetarian and vegan choices. It's always a good idea to check menus on-site. TikTok

Dining within Kew Gardens can be moderately priced. Bringing your own picnic is a budget-friendly alternative. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The red-brick exterior of the Dutch House, the manicured gardens surrounding the palace, and the historic Royal Kitchens offer great photographic opportunities. Instagram

Photography is generally permitted inside Kew Palace, but flash photography is usually not allowed to protect the artifacts and interiors. Always look for signage. Instagram

The Palm House, the Treetop Walkway, the Japanese Pagoda, and the diverse plant collections in the conservatories are all incredibly photogenic. Instagram

Absolutely! Most smartphones can capture stunning images of Kew Palace and Gardens. Focus on good lighting and composition. Instagram

Drone usage is strictly prohibited within Kew Gardens and around Kew Palace to protect visitors and the delicate environment. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kew Palace and Gardens are a hit with families! The vast gardens provide plenty of space for kids to explore, and there's a fantastic dedicated play area that children love. Reddit+1 Many visitors recommend bringing a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful surroundings, making it a budget-friendly and fun option. Reddit The palace itself, with its historic kitchens, can also spark children's imaginations about royal life. Reddit

Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds. The Treetop Walkway offers a unique perspective that kids often find exciting, and the various conservatories are like stepping into different worlds. TikTok

🚶 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Kew Gardens offers excellent value. While there's an admission fee, it grants access to both the palace and the extensive gardens. Bringing your own picnic is a highly recommended way to save money on food, as on-site dining can add up. Reddit Consider visiting during the off-peak season or on weekdays to potentially find better deals or simply enjoy a less crowded experience without paying extra. TikTok

Utilizing public transport like the Tube or Overground is generally more economical than driving and paying for parking. TikTok Look for concession tickets if you qualify (students, seniors, etc.). The sheer size of the gardens means you can spend hours exploring without needing to purchase additional activities. Reddit

couples

Kew Palace and Gardens offer a romantic escape for couples. Stroll hand-in-hand through the beautifully landscaped gardens, discover hidden corners, and enjoy the tranquility. Reddit The Treetop Walkway provides a unique shared experience with stunning views. TikTok Consider a late afternoon visit for a more intimate atmosphere as the crowds thin out. Reddit

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea at one of the garden's cafes or find a secluded spot for a picnic amidst the blooms. Reddit The historic charm of Kew Palace itself adds a touch of old-world romance to your visit. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Royal Residence Through Time

Kew Palace, often referred to as the 'Dutch House,' is the smallest of London's royal palaces. Its origins trace back to the 17th century, initially built for a wealthy merchant. It later became a favored royal residence, particularly for King George II and Queen Caroline, who expanded and used it as a summer retreat. King George III also spent many summers here with his family, making it a significant site for royal history. Instagram+2

The palace offers a unique glimpse into royal life, with its interiors preserved to reflect different periods. A standout feature is the remarkably intact 200-year-old Royal Kitchens, providing a fascinating look at the domestic workings of a royal household. Reddit

While the palace itself is intimate in scale compared to other royal residences, its historical significance and the stories it holds make it a compelling visit. It provides a more personal and less grand perspective on the monarchy's past. Reddit

Exploring the Expansive Kew Gardens

Kew Palace is situated within the world-renowned Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The gardens are a sprawling paradise for plant lovers and nature enthusiasts, covering over 300 acres. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from tropical conservatories to serene woodland areas. Reddit

Key attractions within the gardens include the iconic Palm House, a Victorian glasshouse filled with exotic plants, and the Princess of Wales Conservatory, showcasing a variety of climates. The Treetop Walkway offers a unique perspective, allowing visitors to stroll among the tree canopy. For a different kind of architectural marvel, the Japanese 'Pagoda' provides stunning views. Reddit

Kew Gardens is also a hub for scientific research and conservation. The sheer scale and variety of plant life mean that a single visit can be as relaxed or as energetic as you wish, with plenty of places to sit and enjoy the fresh air. Reddit+1

Family Fun at Kew

Kew Gardens and Palace are a fantastic destination for families. The expansive grounds offer ample space for children to run and explore, making it an ideal spot for a family day out. Reddit

One of the highlights for younger visitors is the dedicated children's play area, which is well-regarded and provides a fun, engaging space for them to burn off energy. Reddit+1 Several of the garden's cafes are conveniently located near this area, allowing parents to relax while keeping an eye on their children. Reddit

Beyond the play area, the diverse plant collections and the chance to see a real palace add an educational element to the visit. Packing a picnic is also a great way to make the day more enjoyable and budget-friendly for families. Reddit

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