Summary of Kew Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew was awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in July 2003 due to its work on history and the development of garden landscapes and its role in science and plant research.
Quick Facts
Size of the Gardens
The Gardens cover an impressive 300 acres. To get an idea of walking times between landmarks, see the Kew Gardens map (pdf). If you are visiting with small children, be prepared to double walking times.
How Much Time?
It is suggested that most people take around three hours to explore the entirety of the Gardens (approximately one mile across, taking about 40 minutes to walk). Many choose to spend the entire day at Kew, as the Gardens offer so much to see and enjoy. Take your time, have lunch, and fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Overhead Noise
Kew Gardens is located on the Heathrow Airport flight path, resulting in overhead noise from planes every few minutes. While this may initially distract you, most visitors find themselves accustomed to it quite quickly.
Photographer’s Paradise
Kew is a haven for photographers. Expect to see a variety of camera equipment, from disposable cameras to professional gear with long lenses. Most visitors wander around with their camera and a map, so it’s advisable to use a neck strap for security. Ensure you’re well-prepared with extra batteries, film, and ample storage for your digital photos.
Exhibitions
Kew hosts an impressive history of outdoor sculpture exhibitions, notable ones being David Nash at Kew and Moore at Kew.
Getting to Kew
Use a Journey Planner to navigate your route via public transport.
By London Underground
Nearest Tube Station: Kew Gardens. Travel on the District Line towards Richmond.
Approx. Travel Times: 15 minutes from Earl’s Court and 30 minutes from Westminster on the District Line to Kew Gardens Station (Zone 3).
Top Tip: If steps are a challenge, consider going to Richmond station (just one additional stop) and take the Eastbound train back to Kew Gardens to avoid stairs and the bridge over the train tracks. It’s a short ten-minute walk from Kew Gardens Station to Kew Gardens Victoria Gate.
By Train
Train services from Waterloo, via Vauxhall and Clapham Junction, stop at Kew Bridge station.
Kew Explorer Bus Tours
If you have limited time, you can tour Kew in under an hour on the Kew Explorer. This hop-on hop-off tour, with eight stops, incurs an additional charge. The tours run daily every hour from Victoria Plaza. Though untested personally, it appears to include an entertaining commentary of the sights.
Walking Tours
Daily walking tours are available, usually two per day, with each lasting 60 minutes. Visitors must register at the Guide Desk inside Victoria Plaza at least 15 minutes before a tour starts. Seasonal tours are often available, so inquire at the Guide Desk for current options.
Kew Gardens Rules
- No climbing trees
- No ball games
- No bikes or scooters
- Guide dogs only
Kew Gardens Opening Times
- Open Daily, closed on December 24 and 25 only.
- Closing times vary throughout the year.
- Dates are approximate; check the Kew Gardens website for precise dates this year.
Fire Alarm Tip
Regular fire alarm tests occur in all public indoor areas, so check for related notices on doors.
More Tea for Your Money
A paper cup of tea in Victoria Plaza is equivalent in cost to a proper pot of tea (serves two cups) in the Pavilion Restaurant.
Ramp Access to Temperate House
Disabled access is available at the rear of the Temperate House.
Best Picnic Spots
- Next to the River Thames, near the Badger Sett; it has benches and ample grassy space.
- In front of Queen Charlotte’s Cottage, a quiet picnic spot with flat ground and shaded areas; the nearest toilets are about a ten-minute walk away near the Waterlily Pond.
- Near the Waterlily Pond, another excellent option with bench seating.
Kew Gardens Ticket Information
Different Winter and Summer ticket prices apply. Children under 17 enter for free. Check the Kew Gardens website for the latest pricing.
Concessions available for seniors (60+), full-time students (17+), long-term disabled, and unemployed visitors.
Kew Gardens Shopping and Eating
- Victoria Plaza Shops:
- Garden Shop – plants and garden-related items
- Book Shop – botanical literature
- Cook Shop – exclusive sweets and beverages
- Gift Shop – unique souvenirs
- White Peaks Children’s Shop – toys and games
- Victoria Terrace Café: Located next to Victoria Gate, it serves tea, sandwiches, cakes, and snacks with extended hours compared to other cafes.
- Pavilion Restaurant: Offers a wide selection of meals and cakes, with a large outdoor seating area. Popular with regular visitors.
- White Peaks Café: Known for an improved menu, including hot carved roast and children’s lunch boxes.
- The Orangery Restaurant: Features seasonal dishes in a stunning Grade 1 listed building.
Visiting Kew Gardens With Children
Great news for families—children under 17 enter for FREE! The Gardens boast plenty of space for exploration, with suggested walking times being manageable for children.
Buggy Access
Kew’s landscape has many paths, and most buildings offer ramped access, although certain areas are not accessible with buggies:
- Xstrata Treetop Walkway (buggy park available at the bottom)
- Galleries in the Temperate House and Palm House
- The Waterlily House
- The Aquatic Display in the Palm House
- Queen Charlotte’s Cottage
- Kew Palace
Kew Gardens Highlights
- Xstrata Treetop Walkway: 18 meters high, offering stunning views and a chance to explore the tree canopy.
- The Palm House: A breathtaking glass structure housing remarkable plants from around the world.
- Princess of Wales Conservatory: The aquatic display here compliments its 1980s design.
- Temperate House: The largest surviving Victorian glass building with a dramatic interior and impressive plant specimens.
- Queen Charlotte’s Cottage: A quaint historical summerhouse used by Queen Charlotte and her family.
- Kew Palace: An intimate royal residence requiring an additional admission fee.
- The Davies Alpine House: A unique glass structure, reminiscent of modern stadium architecture.
- Pagoda Tree: A visually striking tree that grows sideways, sourced from China.
Xstrata Treetop Walkway at Kew Gardens
The Xstrata Treetop Walkway opened in May 2008, providing a unique viewpoint of the tree canopy and breathtaking London views. There is no extra ticket required for entry once you have paid the main entrance fee, and under 17s are free.
This feature incorporates an educational approach by showcasing tree roots and includes animatronics and sculptures, designed to withstand the outdoor elements.
Although the lift is currently non-functional, visitors can use the steps to reach the 200-meter-long walkway, which is highly recommended for educational opportunities.
The weathered steel structure is designed for durability, boasting a 500-year lifespan and accommodating 3,000 visitors daily, making it a must-see during your Kew Gardens visit.
