Temperate House Kew Gardens
World's largest Victorian glasshouse, housing 10,000 diverse plants from temperate regions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Temperate House Kew Gardens
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
World's largest Victorian glasshouse, housing 10,000 diverse plants from temperate regions.
"Step into a magical, Hogwarts-esque world of plants and Victorian grandeur."
📸 Capture the Magic
The Temperate House is incredibly photogenic! Bring your camera or phone for stunning shots.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking around Kew Gardens, so wear comfortable shoes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Victorian Architecture
The entire structure
Marvel at the intricate ironwork and soaring glass panes of this iconic Victorian masterpiece.
Global Plant Collection
Throughout the house
Explore thousands of plant species from temperate regions worldwide, a living botanical library.
Material World Exhibition
Throughout the house
Discover art, fashion, and horticulture exploring sustainable futures inspired by nature.
Rhopalostylis Sapida Palms
Specific sections
Admire the impressive Nikau palms, a striking feature of the house's diverse flora.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Magic
The Temperate House is incredibly photogenic! Bring your camera or phone for stunning shots.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking around Kew Gardens, so wear comfortable shoes.
📅 Check for Events
Look out for special exhibitions like 'Material World' for a unique experience.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Kew Gardens can be extensive; carry water, especially on warmer days.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Magic
The Temperate House is incredibly photogenic! Bring your camera or phone for stunning shots.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking around Kew Gardens, so wear comfortable shoes.
📅 Check for Events
Look out for special exhibitions like 'Material World' for a unique experience.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Kew Gardens can be extensive; carry water, especially on warmer days.
🕰️ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to explore the Temperate House and surrounding gardens.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Temperate House for its breathtaking Victorian architecture and the immense diversity of its plant collection. Many find it a serene escape, especially during off-peak hours. Some note that it can get crowded, and the humidity can be intense.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Temperate House is located within the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. You can reach Kew Gardens via the London Underground (District Line to Kew Gardens station), Overground, or bus routes. Once inside the gardens, follow the signs for the Temperate House.
Yes, there is a car park available at Kew Gardens. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Consider public transport if possible.
Yes, taxis and rideshares can drop you off at the main entrance of Kew Gardens. The Temperate House is a short walk from there.
The District Line on the London Underground is a direct and convenient way to reach Kew Gardens from central London. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
Kew Gardens is generally accessible, with paved paths. The Temperate House itself is also accessible. Check the Kew Gardens website for detailed accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Temperate House is included with your general admission ticket to Kew Gardens.
Ticket prices vary depending on whether you book online in advance or purchase on the day. It's generally cheaper to book online. Check the official Kew Gardens website for current pricing.
The Temperate House follows the general opening hours of Kew Gardens. These can vary seasonally, so it's best to check the Kew Gardens website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the entrance, but booking online in advance is recommended to guarantee entry and potentially save money.
Kew Gardens offers various concessions, including for seniors, students, and children. Family tickets are also available. Check their website for details.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The Temperate House houses a vast collection of plants from temperate regions around the world, including palms, ferns, and flowering plants. It's a stunning example of Victorian glasshouse architecture. 
To fully appreciate the architecture and the diverse plant collection, plan for at least 1-2 hours. Many visitors spend longer exploring the entire Kew Gardens.
Yes, children often find the vast array of plants and the impressive glass structure fascinating. It's a great educational experience.
Kew Gardens offers various guided tours, some of which may include the Temperate House. Check the Kew Gardens website for tour schedules and availability.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Temperate House for personal use. However, tripods and professional photography may require special permission.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Kew Gardens has several cafes and restaurants offering a range of food options, from light snacks to full meals.
Picnics are welcome in designated areas of Kew Gardens. There are also cafes and restaurants available for purchasing food.
There are cafes located within Kew Gardens, some of which are a short walk from the Temperate House, offering convenient refreshments.
The cafes typically offer sandwiches, salads, pastries, hot meals, and beverages. Options cater to various tastes and dietary needs.
The Temperate House is a sought-after venue for exclusive events and weddings, offering a truly unique setting. Inquire with Kew Events for details.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful natural light. The 'golden hour' can create a magical atmosphere within the glasshouse.
Tripods may be restricted during busy periods or for professional shoots. It's advisable to check Kew Gardens' specific photography policy.
Visitors often capture the grand scale of the architecture, close-ups of exotic plants, and the interplay of light and shadow.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited within Kew Gardens, including the Temperate House, for safety and preservation reasons.
The central walkways offer grand perspectives, while the various plant sections provide opportunities for detailed shots. The Nikau palms are a popular subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Make it an adventure: Encourage kids to spot different shapes and colors of leaves, or imagine what it would be like to live in a tropical climate.
* Combine with other attractions: Kew Gardens offers playgrounds and other family-friendly areas, so you can easily spend a full day exploring.
* Pack snacks and drinks: While there are cafes, having your own provisions can be helpful for younger children.
🌿 Plant Enthusiasts & Gardeners
Tips for plant lovers:
* Research ahead: Familiarize yourself with some of the key species housed here to enhance your appreciation.
* Take detailed notes or photos: The sheer volume of plants means you might want to document your discoveries for later reference.
* Visit during special exhibitions: Events like 'Material World' add an extra layer of interest, connecting horticulture with art and sustainability.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
+1Tips for photographers:
* Experiment with angles: Capture the vastness of the structure from the ground floor, or find elevated spots for different perspectives.
* Focus on details: The textures of leaves, the patterns of bark, and the delicate structures of flowers make for compelling close-up shots.
* Consider the light: Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and a warm glow.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Victorian Engineering Marvel
Walking through the Temperate House feels like stepping back in time. The soaring glass panes allow natural light to flood the space, creating a warm and humid environment perfect for the diverse flora within. The detailed ironwork, painted in a distinctive green, adds to the historic charm. It’s a place where botanical science meets artistic design, offering a truly immersive experience.
Visitors often remark on the almost magical atmosphere, with some comparing it to the greenhouses of Hogwarts. This comparison highlights the sense of wonder and enchantment the structure evokes. It’s not just a building; it’s a carefully curated ecosystem, a sanctuary for plants and a feast for the eyes.
Exploring the 'Material World' Exhibition
+1The exhibition features installations by artists and designers, including those from the London College of Fashion. Visitors can discover how plants and fungi can shape the future of clothing, with displays ranging from living mycelium disks to innovative textile designs. It’s an engaging way to learn about the environmental impact of fashion and the potential for greener alternatives.
+2'Material World' offers a unique perspective on the Temperate House, blending its natural beauty with contemporary artistic and environmental themes. It’s a reminder that the plants housed within are not just specimens but also vital resources that can inform our creativity and our approach to a more sustainable world.
A Haven for Plant Enthusiasts
+1Key species to look out for include the Rhopalostylis sapida, also known as the Nikau palm, which has several large specimens thriving within the house. The humid, warm environment is meticulously maintained to support these delicate species, making it a living museum of botanical diversity.
Beyond the specific species, the overall experience of being surrounded by such a rich collection of flora is deeply rewarding. The air is thick with the scent of blossoms and damp earth, and the visual spectacle of lush greenery is a welcome escape, especially during colder months.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit