Royal Botanic Gardens Kew
A world-renowned botanical garden showcasing diverse plant life from across the globe in stunning Victorian glasshouses and expansive grounds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Flowers in full bloom
Royal Botanic Gardens Kew
Best Time
Flowers in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A world-renowned botanical garden showcasing diverse plant life from across the globe in stunning Victorian glasshouses and expansive grounds.
"A dreamy place, you'll have more fun if you take your time & explore. "
🎯 Arrive Early to Beat Lines
Head there right at opening to avoid queues, especially on busy days.
🚶♀️ Don't Rush, Savor the Experience
Kew is a dreamy place; take your time exploring instead of trying to see it all.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Palm House
Tropical Zone
Step into a steamy Victorian paradise filled with towering palms and exotic flora from around the globe.
Treetop Walkway
Woodland Garden
Ascend 18 meters for a unique perspective, walking amongst the canopy of mature trees.
Temperate House
Temperate Zone
The world's largest Victorian glasshouse, showcasing plants from Africa, Australia, Asia, and the Americas.
Davies Alpine House
Alpine Zone
Marvel at a stunning collection of alpine plants, blooming vibrantly in a unique, rocky landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Make the Most of Your Day
Beyond the Glasshouses: Hidden Gems
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early to Beat Lines
Head there right at opening to avoid queues, especially on busy days.
🚶♀️ Don't Rush, Savor the Experience
Kew is a dreamy place; take your time exploring instead of trying to see it all.
Do you have any tips for Kew gardens?
🚗 Park Smarter in Richmond
Consider parking at the Old Deer Car Park in Richmond for easier access via the Lion Gate.
🌿 Explore Beyond the Glasshouses
The 'wilderness' areas at the Richmond end offer a wonderful, tranquil escape.
First time at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew. What a spectacular place!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early to Beat Lines
Head there right at opening to avoid queues, especially on busy days.
🚶♀️ Don't Rush, Savor the Experience
Kew is a dreamy place; take your time exploring instead of trying to see it all.
🚗 Park Smarter in Richmond
Consider parking at the Old Deer Car Park in Richmond for easier access via the Lion Gate.
🌿 Explore Beyond the Glasshouses
The 'wilderness' areas at the Richmond end offer a wonderful, tranquil escape.
☕️ Enjoy Local Treats
Try the cream teas at 'Maids of Honour' cafe near Kew Gardens.
📱 Download the Kew Gardens App
Enhance your visit with maps, plant information, and audio guides.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the immense beauty and diversity of plants at Kew Gardens, with the iconic glasshouses and Treetop Walkway being major highlights. Many appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity to learn about global flora. Some find the admission price a bit steep, and during peak times, it can get crowded.
"Visited during bank holiday! Perfect weather! Blazing hot sun but that’s fine as there’s loads of places to find and hitch under shade.
The park is well kept and looks fantastic. We must’ve walked around for 5-6 hours. The park is really amazing.
I took a trolley with me loaded with blankets and food and stuff which was great as there’s no restrictions on that.
The family and kids loved the day out here definitely will be back for Christmas lights!"
R
"We've been wanting to visit for a while.
We arrived at 9.40 for 10.00 open time.
Not too busy at this time.
We thought it would be a good 3 -4 hours. How wrong we were. We were there for 10 hours and we still didn't get to see everything.
What an absolutely amazing place!
Plants, flowers and exhibitions all over the park.
Things to do for everyone adults and children.
The Palm House is totally breathtaking.
The pond lily house is stunning.
It has a lovely little land train that takes you on a circuit around the grounds, definitely worth the cost of £6.50 an adult.
Some great places to stop and eat, and lots of seating if you want to take you're own food.
I think you really need 2 days to get the best out of it.
We are definitely going to visit again, I think you need to do Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter seasons.
If you want the best, Spring and Summer are better."
Steve Waite
"I’ve been meaning to come here for years and I’m so glad I finally did. Absolutely stunning. I only spent an hour here but could have easily spent a whole day if I didn’t have somewhere I needed to be. Would highly recommend the Marianne North gallery as well it’s a real hidden gem (you’re not allowed to take photos in there so you won’t find any in my review but it’s definitely worth a visit if you have any interest in art and botanical history)."
Maya Whatton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Kew Gardens via the District Line on the London Underground to Kew Gardens station, which is about a 10-minute walk away. Alternatively, Overground trains also serve Kew Gardens. Buses 65 and 391 stop nearby.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can be limited and busy. Some visitors recommend parking in Richmond and walking to the Lion Gate for easier access.
Yes, cycling is permitted within Kew Gardens, and there are bike racks available. It's a great way to explore the vast grounds.
From Heathrow, you can take the Piccadilly Line to Acton Town and change for the District Line towards Upminster, alighting at Kew Gardens station.
For a scenic approach, consider taking a train to Richmond and enjoying a pleasant riverside walk to the gardens, or explore the charming streets of Richmond.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, and it's recommended to book online in advance for the best rates. Check the official Kew Gardens website for current pricing and any special offers.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or for special events, to guarantee entry and potentially save money.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Kew Gardens website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times for your planned visit.
Kew Gardens often offers concessions for students, seniors, and families. Check their website for details on eligibility and booking discounted tickets.
Yes, the London Pass often includes entry to Kew Gardens. It's advisable to check the specific terms and conditions of your London Pass for confirmation.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the iconic Palm House, the soaring Treetop Walkway, the vast Temperate House, and the vibrant Davies Alpine House. The 'wilderness' areas also offer a unique charm.
Kew Gardens is largely accessible, with many paved paths. However, some areas may have inclines. The Treetop Walkway has a ramp. Check their accessibility guide for detailed information.
You can see the highlights in a few hours, but to truly appreciate the gardens and explore at a relaxed pace, a full day is recommended.
Yes, guided tours are often available, offering insights into the history and plant collections. Check the Kew Gardens website for schedules and booking information.
Kew boasts an incredibly diverse collection, from tropical plants in the Palm House to alpine species in the Davies Alpine House, and a vast array of trees and evergreens throughout the grounds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Kew Gardens has several cafes and restaurants offering a range of options, from light snacks to full meals. The Orangery and White Peaks are popular choices.
Picnic areas are available, allowing you to bring your own food and enjoy a meal amidst the beautiful surroundings.
For a delightful tea experience, try 'Maids of Honour' near Kew Gardens, known for its cream teas. You can also find our Humanitea drinks at the Kew Gardens shop.
The cafes at Kew Gardens typically offer a selection of vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check the menu on the day of your visit.
Dining prices are comparable to other major London attractions. Bringing your own picnic can be a more budget-friendly option.
📸 📸 Photography
The Palm House, Temperate House, Treetop Walkway, and the various themed gardens offer stunning photographic opportunities. Look for unique plant textures and architectural details.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the glasshouses, but tripods and professional equipment may require special permission. Be mindful of other visitors.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for capturing the beauty of the gardens. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
No, drone usage is strictly prohibited within Kew Gardens for the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of flowers. A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the grandeur of the glasshouses.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the designated picnic spots, and let the little ones burn off energy in the open spaces. The diverse plant collections, especially the vibrant colors in the glasshouses, are sure to captivate young imaginations. Consider downloading the Kew Gardens app, which often has family-friendly trails and activities.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially avoid peak pricing or crowds. If you're staying in London, utilize public transport like the Tube or bus, which is generally more cost-effective than driving and parking.
couples
Explore the different themed areas, from the exoticism of the Palm House to the serene beauty of the Japanese 'Minka' house. The gardens are particularly enchanting during spring bloom or autumn foliage, offering beautiful backdrops for memorable moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Kew Gardens
Today, Kew houses an unparalleled collection of over 50,000 living plant species and a herbarium with over 8.5 million specimens. Its scientific work spans plant identification, conservation, and sustainable use of plant resources. The gardens are not just a beautiful public space but a vital global resource for botanical science.
Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from the iconic Victorian glasshouses like the Palm House and Temperate House, to the serene Japanese 'Minka' house and the unique Xstrata Discovery Zone. The Treetop Walkway offers a breathtaking perspective, allowing you to experience the forest canopy.
Exploring the Diverse Biomes
Beyond the tropical and temperate zones, Kew offers a journey through various global ecosystems. The Davies Alpine House features a stunning array of plants adapted to harsh mountain environments, while the Waterlily House displays magnificent giant waterlilies. Don't miss the Princess of Wales Conservatory, which houses a diverse range of plants from arid and tropical regions, including orchids and carnivorous plants.
For a more naturalistic experience, venture into the Woodland Garden and the Wilderness areas. These sections showcase native British flora and a variety of trees, offering a peaceful retreat and a chance to see the gardens through the changing seasons.
Conservation and Research at Kew
Kew's Herbarium is one of the largest and most important in the world, holding millions of dried plant specimens that serve as invaluable resources for scientific study. This vast collection aids in identifying new species, tracking plant distribution, and understanding evolutionary relationships.
Beyond research, Kew actively engages in fieldwork and partnerships worldwide to support conservation initiatives. Their work contributes to sustainable agriculture, medicine, and the preservation of biodiversity, making Kew Gardens a vital institution for the planet's ecological health.
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