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Marianne North Gallery

Discover the world through the eyes of a pioneering Victorian artist in this unique gallery of botanical art.

4.8

Step into the Marianne North Gallery at Kew Gardens, a unique space dedicated to the pioneering botanical art of Marianne North. Over 800 vivid paintings cover the walls, depicting exotic plants and landscapes from around the world. This intimate gallery celebrates both art and nature, offering a glimpse into the adventurous life of a Victorian woman who defied convention to document the natural world.

A brief summary to Marianne North Gallery

  • Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, TW9 3AE, GB
  • +442083325655
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the gallery early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience with the paintings.
  • Take time to read the extracts from Marianne North’s memoirs available on the touch screen monitors for deeper insight into her travels and artistic process.
  • Look for the painted borders of tea and coffee plants around the door frames, a playful nod to North’s denied request for hospitality in the gallery.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Victoria Gate entrance, follow the main path towards the Temperate House; the Marianne North Gallery is located nearby, clearly signposted along the way.

  • Public Transport

    Take the District Line to Kew Gardens station, then walk approximately 10 minutes through the gardens to reach the gallery.

  • Car

    Drive to Kew Gardens and park in the main car park; from there, follow the signs to the Temperate House and the Marianne North Gallery.

Marianne North Gallery location weather suitability

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Discover more about Marianne North Gallery

A Gallery of Botanical Wonder

Nestled within the lush grounds of Kew Gardens, the Marianne North Gallery is a treasure trove of botanical art. More than 800 paintings by Marianne North adorn the walls, each a vibrant snapshot of the plants and landscapes she encountered during her travels. The gallery’s intimate setting, with paintings arranged in geographical order, invites visitors to journey from Jamaica to Japan, from the tropics to temperate forests, all within a single room. The effect is both educational and enchanting, offering a rare window into the world as seen through the eyes of a Victorian explorer.

The Legacy of Marianne North

Marianne North was a trailblazing artist and naturalist who traveled the world in the 19th century, documenting flora in their natural habitats. Her work challenged the conventions of Victorian flower painting, focusing instead on the dramatic landscapes and diverse ecosystems she encountered. The gallery itself was built to her specifications and opened in 1882, making it the longest-running permanent exhibition by a female artist in the UK. North’s dedication to both art and science is evident in every brushstroke, and her legacy continues to inspire visitors today.

Art and Nature in Harmony

The gallery’s design is as much a part of the experience as the paintings themselves. North’s vision included tea and coffee service, a request denied by Kew’s director, but her playful response—a painted border of tea and coffee plants around the door frames—remains a charming detail. The gallery’s wood samples, Victorian tiles, and floral borders create a kaleidoscopic effect, blending art and nature in a way that feels both opulent and humble. Touch screen monitors allow visitors to explore select paintings in detail, while extracts from North’s memoirs provide insight into her adventurous spirit.

A Hidden Gem in Kew Gardens

The Marianne North Gallery is a must-see for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Its location near the Temperate House and Pavilion restaurant makes it easy to include in a visit to Kew Gardens. The gallery’s collection is a testament to the power of art to educate and inspire, offering a unique perspective on the natural world. Whether you’re drawn to the beauty of the paintings or the story of the artist, the Marianne North Gallery is a hidden gem that leaves a lasting impression.

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