Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Explore the world’s most diverse botanical gardens with iconic glasshouses, historic landscapes, and year-round seasonal wonders in Richmond, London.
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, located in Richmond, London, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its vast and diverse plant collections, historic glasshouses, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Spanning 121 hectares, Kew Gardens features iconic structures like the Palm House, Princess of Wales Conservatory, and the Great Pagoda. Visitors can explore themed gardens, tropical rainforests, and enjoy seasonal events such as Christmas at Kew, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
- Richmond, GB
- +442083325655
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-3:15 pm
- Thursday 10 am-3:15 pm
- Friday 10 am-3:15 pm
- Saturday 10 am-3:15 pm
- Sunday 10 am-3:15 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to secure the best prices and avoid queues, especially during peak seasons and special events.
- Visit the Palm House early to experience the tropical rainforest plants before the glasshouse gets warm and crowded.
- Allow at least half a day to explore the extensive gardens, glasshouses, and exhibitions fully.
- Take advantage of the seasonal events like Christmas at Kew for a magical evening light experience.
- Use the Kew Explorer land train to cover large distances within the gardens comfortably, especially if mobility is a concern.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Train
Take the London Overground to Kew Gardens station from central London, with a journey time of approximately 30 minutes. The station is a 5-minute walk from the gardens. Trains run frequently but check schedules for weekend service variations. Tickets cost around £5–£7 depending on the starting zone.
-
Bus
Bus routes 65, 110, and 237 serve stops near Kew Gardens, with journey times ranging from 40 to 60 minutes from central London. Buses run regularly but can be subject to traffic delays. A single fare is approximately £1.75 with contactless payment or Oyster card.
-
Car
Driving to Kew Gardens takes about 30–45 minutes from central London depending on traffic. Parking near the gardens is very limited and often requires advance booking or use of nearby public car parks. Congestion charges may apply within London zones.
-
Riverboat
During warmer months, riverboat services operate from central London piers to Kew Pier, located close to the gardens. The journey offers scenic views and lasts about 1.5 hours. Tickets cost approximately £15–£20. Check seasonal schedules and availability.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
A Living Botanical Treasure with Global Significance
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, established in 1759, is one of the world's most important botanical institutions. It holds the largest and most diverse collection of living plants globally, supporting vital research in plant diversity, systematics, and conservation. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Kew Gardens exemplifies centuries of botanical science and horticultural excellence. Its collections include rare and endangered species, tropical rainforest plants, desert flora, and alpine specimens, all nurtured across its expansive grounds and iconic glasshouses.Architectural Marvels and Historic Landscapes
Kew Gardens is famed for its stunning Victorian glasshouses, notably the Palm House, a masterpiece of iron and glass architecture housing rainforest species. The Princess of Wales Conservatory showcases ten distinct climate zones, including desert and tropical environments, while the Waterlily House features giant lily pads. The Great Pagoda, a restored 18th-century oriental folly, and Kew Palace, a former royal residence, add historical depth. The gardens themselves reflect landscape design from the 18th to 20th centuries, shaped by renowned architects such as Capability Brown and William Chambers.Immersive Visitor Experiences and Seasonal Highlights
Visitors can stroll the Great Broad Walk Borders, a spectacular 320-metre floral display, or ascend the 18-metre Treetop Walkway for panoramic views above the tree canopy. The Japanese Landscape offers a serene setting with traditional design elements and seasonal cherry blossoms. Throughout the year, Kew hosts art exhibitions, wellbeing sessions, and special events like Christmas at Kew, when the gardens transform into a dazzling light trail. Indoor attractions such as the Marianne North Gallery and the Davies Alpine House provide engaging experiences regardless of weather.Facilities and Accessibility
Kew Gardens offers a variety of amenities including cafés, restaurants, shops, and picnic areas. Accessibility is prioritized with multiple entrance gates equipped with accessible toilets and services for visitors with disabilities. A land train operates seasonally to assist with navigation across the extensive grounds. The gardens welcome assistance dogs and provide detailed maps for all visitors to enhance their experience.Conservation and Educational Importance
Beyond its beauty, Kew Gardens is a leading center for plant conservation and ecological research. It manages seed banks and herbarium collections critical to preserving global plant biodiversity. Educational programs and guided tours deepen public understanding of botanical science and environmental stewardship. The gardens’ role in conservation ecology continues to evolve, bridging historic horticulture with modern sustainability efforts.A Year-Round Destination for All Seasons
Kew Gardens is open daily with varying hours depending on the season, inviting visitors to enjoy its changing landscapes through spring blooms, summer vibrancy, autumn colors, and winter warmth inside the glasshouses. The gardens provide a tranquil escape from urban life, offering both lively events and peaceful natural retreats. Whether for a few hours or a full day, Kew delivers a rich cultural and botanical experience in the heart of London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Charlotte's Cottage
0.9 km
Discover the charming 18th-century rustic retreat of Queen Charlotte nestled in Kew Gardens' tranquil woodland and royal heritage.
Aparthotel Adagio London Brentford
1.4 km
Modern aparthotel in Brentford offering spacious apartments, fitness facilities, and easy access to Heathrow and central London.
Richmond Bridge
2.5 km
Richmond Bridge, London's oldest Thames crossing, blends 18th-century Palladian elegance with timeless riverside charm.
Richmond Hill - Viewing Point
2.9 km
Britain's only parliamentary-protected view, where the Thames winds through timeless meadowland.
Barmy Arms
4.2 km
Charming riverside pub in Twickenham offering scenic Thames views, classic pub fare, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Church Street Twickenham
4.2 km
Discover Twickenham’s charming Church Street, a vibrant hub of independent shops, historic pubs, and community spirit nestled near the town centre.
Hammersmith Bridge
4.8 km
Victorian engineering marvel spanning the Thames with a turbulent history of bombs, closures, and remarkable resilience.
Mr Mathias Winkler
5.3 km
Discover exceptional healthcare at Mr. Mathias Winkler's practice in London’s Charing Cross Hospital, where patient care meets expertise.
Queen Victoria Monument
6.6 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.
The Tower House
6.8 km
A stunning Victorian Gothic Revival townhouse in London, blending medieval artistry with rock legend heritage.
Пам'ятник Володимир Великий / Monument to Saint Volodomyr the Great
7.1 km
Explore the Monument to Saint Volodomyr the Great in London, a striking tribute to history, culture, and architectural beauty.
Howard Staunton Blue Plaque
7.2 km
Commemorating Howard Staunton, 19th-century chess master and organizer of the first international chess tournament, at his London blue plaque.
Sambourne House
7.3 km
Explore the authentic Victorian charm of Sambourne House, a historical gem in Kensington that reveals the life and art of Edward Linley Sambourne.
Notting Hill
7.3 km
Experience the vibrant charm of Notting Hill, a cultural hub in London known for its colorful streets, lively markets, and rich history.
Brompton Cemetery
7.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Brompton Cemetery, a Victorian landmark in London offering a unique retreat.
Unmissable attractions to see
Marianne North Gallery
0.5 km
Explore over 800 vibrant botanical paintings by pioneering Victorian artist Marianne North in a unique gallery at Kew Gardens.
The Musical Museum
1.0 km
Discover the enchanting world of self-playing instruments and live Wurlitzer concerts at Brentford’s Musical Museum.
The National Archives
1.2 km
Explore a millennium of British history through original documents, exhibitions, and tranquil grounds at The National Archives in Kew.
Syon House
1.2 km
Discover the rich Tudor history, Robert Adam’s neoclassical interiors, and Capability Brown’s sweeping landscapes at Syon House in Brentford.
London Museum of Water & Steam
1.2 km
Explore Victorian steam engines and the story of London's water supply at this historic Brentford museum with interactive exhibits and a steam railway.
Syon Park
1.3 km
Explore centuries of history, stunning gardens, and the iconic Great Conservatory at Syon Park, the London home of the Duke of Northumberland.
Chiswick Bridge
1.9 km
Discover the charm and scenic beauty of Chiswick Bridge, a historic landmark in London offering stunning views of the Thames River.
Richmond Green
2.1 km
Richmond Green: A historic Tudor and Georgian urban park offering tranquil green space and rich royal heritage in the heart of Richmond-upon-Thames.
Boston Manor Park
2.1 km
A historic 28-acre park in Brentford blending Jacobean heritage, waterways, and family-friendly green spaces.
Boston Manor House
2.1 km
Explore a beautifully restored 17th-century Jacobean manor set in serene parkland, showcasing rich history, rare interiors, and vibrant community heritage.
One Paved Court
2.2 km
An intimate artist-run gallery in historic Richmond, showcasing innovative contemporary art in a charming Georgian setting.
Museum of Richmond
2.3 km
Explore Richmond’s rich heritage and royal past in the welcoming Old Town Hall museum with free entry and engaging exhibitions.
Gunnersbury Park Museum
2.4 km
Discover West London's rich heritage and tranquil green spaces at Gunnersbury Park Museum, where history meets nature.
Richmond Riverside
2.4 km
A peaceful Thames-side haven in Richmond with historic charm, scenic views, and riverside pubs perfect for relaxing strolls and river activities.
Gunnersbury Triangle, London Wildlife Trust
2.4 km
A serene urban nature reserve in Chiswick offering diverse habitats, rich wildlife, and a peaceful escape just steps from the city.
Essential places to dine
La Rosetta Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm family hospitality at La Rosetta, a beloved Brentford dining destination.
Man vs Food
2.3 km
Bold American flavours and massive portions meet lively challenges in Isleworth’s vibrant Man Vs Food diner.
A Cena
2.7 km
Refined Southern Italian dining with generous portions, warm ambience, and a curated cocktail bar in the heart of East Twickenham.
The Petersham Restaurant
3.1 km
Elegant British fine dining with stunning Thames views in Richmond’s historic mid-Victorian setting.
Brouge Gastropub
6.1 km
Experience authentic Belgian beers and hearty British-Belgian cuisine in the welcoming heart of Twickenham’s Fulwell neighbourhood.
Il Portico
7.0 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
The Ladbroke Arms
7.2 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove
7.3 km
Experience authentic Turkish barbecue and vibrant atmosphere at Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove, a beloved London institution for kebab lovers.
Core by Clare Smyth
7.4 km
Experience three-Michelin-starred modern British cuisine by Clare Smyth in an elegant Notting Hill setting, where sustainability meets culinary artistry.
Osteria Napoletana
7.5 km
Cozy Neapolitan eatery in Notting Hill serving authentic southern Italian classics with warm hospitality and a lively atmosphere.
La mia Mamma Notting Hill
7.5 km
Experience authentic Italian regional cuisine prepared by real mammas in a warm, lively Notting Hill trattoria setting.
Gold
7.5 km
Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Ci Tua Osteria Romana
7.5 km
Experience authentic Roman cuisine and warm Italian hospitality in the heart of London’s vibrant Portobello Road.
The Sushi Co - Notting Hill
7.5 km
Fresh, flavorful sushi and Asian dishes served late in a casual Portobello Road spot with friendly service and gluten-free options.
Portobello Garden Arcade Italian Restaurant
7.5 km
Authentic Italian dining in a rustic, cozy setting nestled in the heart of vibrant Notting Hill’s Portobello Road.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Stuff
3.7 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in a charming West London boutique with a personal touch and curated collections.
Always & Forever - Wedding Dresses London
4.8 km
Premier family-run bridal boutique in Hounslow offering over 700 gowns and personalized, pressure-free service for your perfect wedding dress.
The London Heritage
5.9 km
A boutique heritage hotel in Canary Wharf blending historic elegance with modern luxury and wellness amenities.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
6.9 km
Discover designer bargains and vintage treasures at this Kensington High Street charity shop, funding life-changing support for local communities in true Octavia Hill spirit.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
6.9 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
the Design Museum Shop
7.0 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
7.2 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
Paul Smith - Notting Hill
7.4 km
Classic British tailoring meets playful innovation at Paul Smith's elegant Notting Hill flagship in historic Westbourne House.
The Blue Door
7.5 km
Discover stylish clothing and unique hats at The Blue Door, a charming boutique nestled in the lively heart of Notting Hill’s Portobello Road.
Portobello Rd
7.5 km
London's legendary street market where antiques, vintage fashion, and treasures await discovery in vibrant Notting Hill.
Goldsmith Vintage
7.5 km
Discover chic vintage treasures at Goldsmith Vintage on bustling Portobello Road, where timeless fashion meets Notting Hill's iconic market charm.
Hangout Clothing
7.5 km
Discover designer flair on Portobello Road at Hangout Clothing, where trendy threads meet Notting Hill's bohemian buzz in a chic boutique haven.
Jovonna Notting Hill Boutique
7.5 km
Discover Jovonna's feminine edge on Portobello Road: classic meets contemporary in Notting Hill's fashion heartbeat.
Portobello Gifts Shop London
7.6 km
Retro souvenirs and nostalgic trinkets on Notting Hill's iconic Portobello Road—a treasure hunt for affordable London mementos amid market vibrancy.
RETRO GIFTS RETAIL
7.6 km
Discover nostalgic treasures at Retro Gifts Retail on Portobello Road—retro charms, quirky novelties, and market magic in Notting Hill's vibrant heart.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
London Apprentice
1.9 km
Historic Georgian riverside pub in Isleworth offering classic ales, scenic Thames views, and lively community events.
Star & Scorpion
3.9 km
A lively gastropub in West Ealing serving American-inspired dishes, craft cocktails, and featuring private heated cabins with Sky Sports.
The Sussex Arms
5.2 km
A lively gastropub in Twickenham offering craft ales, hearty British dishes, and a welcoming beer garden for all seasons.
The Curtains Up
6.1 km
A cozy West Kensington pub blending hearty British fare, lively theatre, and warm local charm for a memorable experience.
The Elgin
7.3 km
Opulent Notting Hill gastropub with historic charm, seasonal British dishes, gin haven, beer garden buzz, and versatile private event spaces.
The M Bar
7.3 km
Experience the best of mobile catering and cocktails at The M Bar, a must-visit destination for food lovers and event planners in New Malden.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
7.4 km
Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.
The Week
7.4 km
Cozy Notting Hill bar on Elgin Crescent, blending craft cocktails and warm vibes in West London's chicest corner. Ideal for intimate evenings amid Victorian charm.
Portobello Star
7.5 km
Gin mastery on Portobello Road: vintage vibes, craft cocktails, and Notting Hill's electric market energy in one cozy retreat.
Trailer Happiness
7.5 km
Notting Hill's kitschy tiki basement bar pours rum-heavy daiquiris and tropical twists amid plush, indulgent vibes—prime for rowdy W11 nights.
Naked & Famous Bar
7.5 km
A cozy, retro-styled Notting Hill basement bar focused on tequila and mezcal with bold, handcrafted cocktails.
The Earl of Lonsdale
7.5 km
Step into Victorian Notting Hill pub charm at The Earl of Lonsdale, where etched glass, duck-under doors, and Yellow Earl lore create an unmissable Samuel Smith's haven amid Portobello buzz.
Love
7.5 km
Intimate Portobello Road cocktail bar with polished service, crafted drinks and a warm, late‑night Notting Hill atmosphere.
The Queen's Head, Cranford
7.6 km
Historic 400-year-old pub in Cranford blending traditional charm with modern gastropub dining and lively entertainment near Heathrow.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
7.6 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lost In Disco
5.4 km
An intimate West London disco night celebrating 1970s–80s funk, soul and floor-filling classics with DJs, guest singers and a glittering dancefloor.
Le Fez
5.8 km
Experience Putney’s premier Moroccan-inspired nightclub with lush lounges, vibrant dancefloors, and unforgettable late-night entertainment.
Ricco London
6.3 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
The Duke of Wellington
7.5 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Electric House
7.5 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
Notting Hill Arts Club
7.8 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
The Globe
7.8 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
Subteranian
7.8 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
B London
8.3 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Dolce Night Club , London
8.5 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
Metric
8.5 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
The Clapham Grand
8.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of London at The Clapham Grand, a premier events venue offering live music, comedy, and unforgettable parties.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
9.1 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
11.1 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Carwash Nightclub
11.1 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
