Queen Charlotte's Cottage at Kew Gardens
Discover the charming 18th-century rustic retreat of Queen Charlotte nestled in Kew Gardens' tranquil woodland and royal heritage.
Nestled within the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, Queen Charlotte's Cottage is an 18th-century rustic retreat built for Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III. This charming cottage orné, with its thatched roof and timber-framed design, served as a private summerhouse for the royal family to enjoy informal meals and strolls amid the gardens and menagerie. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into Georgian royal leisure and horticultural heritage within a tranquil woodland setting.
A brief summary to Queen Charlotte's Cottage
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Richmond, Richmond, TW9 3AE, GB
- +443333206000
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during spring to enjoy the spectacular bluebell carpets surrounding the cottage.
- Explore the Print Room to see original Hogarth sequences depicting moral stories.
- Combine your visit with a tour of Kew Palace and the Great Pagoda for a full royal experience.
- Check opening times in advance; the cottage is open weekends from April to September.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground District Line to Kew Gardens station, then enjoy a 15-20 minute walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens to reach Queen Charlotte's Cottage. The gardens have well-marked paths and are wheelchair accessible. Tube fares range from £2.50 to £5.00 depending on travel zones.
-
Bus
Bus routes 65 and 391 serve Kew Gardens from Richmond and other nearby areas. From the bus stop, it is a 15-20 minute walk through the gardens to the cottage. Buses run frequently during the day, with single fares around £2.50.
-
Car
Parking is limited near Kew Gardens; the nearest public car parks are in Richmond town center, approximately 1.5 km away. Allow 10-15 minutes to walk from parking to the cottage. Expect parking fees of £3-£5 per hour. The cottage is best accessed on foot from the main garden entrances.
Queen Charlotte's Cottage location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Queen Charlotte's Cottage
Origins and Architectural Charm
Queen Charlotte's Cottage dates back to between 1754 and 1771, constructed originally as a modest menagerie keeper's dwelling before becoming a picturesque cottage orné under Queen Charlotte's direction. Designed to evoke the rustic farmhouses of her native Mecklenburg, the timber-framed building features brick infill, a thatched roof, and large 17th-century recycled window frames with leaded panes. The cottage was extended in 1805 with a half-timbered second storey and remains a rare surviving example of this elegant rural style favored by Georgian royalty.A Royal Summer Retreat
The cottage served as a secluded summerhouse for Queen Charlotte, King George III, and their large family, providing a private space for tea and informal meals during walks in the gardens. Its interior, though modest in scale, is more elaborate than typical cottages orné, with two main rooms connected by a cantilevered staircase: the Print Room downstairs, adorned with Hogarth sequences, and the Picnic Room above, decorated with botanical paintings by Princess Elizabeth. The adjoining paddock once housed exotic animals, including pheasants, black swans, and notably, the first kangaroos in England.Historical Significance and Legacy
The cottage reflects the Georgian era’s intimate royal lifestyle, contrasting with the formality of court life. It was a favorite spot for George III, who valued its privacy and tranquility. After Queen Charlotte's death in 1818, the cottage was maintained by a housekeeper throughout Queen Victoria's reign, who later gifted it and the grounds to the public in 1898 to commemorate her Diamond Jubilee. Today, it is managed by Historic Royal Palaces and remains a cherished cultural landmark within Kew Gardens.Natural Setting and Visitor Experience
Set within one of London's finest bluebell woods, some parts over 300 years old, the cottage is surrounded by a nature reserve that preserves its historic paddock and gardens. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk through the wilderness area, spotting colorful Tartarian pheasants and other wildlife. The cottage’s secluded location offers a serene contrast to the broader botanical collections of Kew, making it a unique haven for reflection and exploration.Connection to the Royal Family’s Story
Queen Charlotte's Cottage is intertwined with the personal histories of George III and his family, including their struggles and joys. It was near here that the royal family enjoyed moments of respite from public life. The cottage also witnessed significant family events, such as the double wedding of the Duke of Clarence and the Duke of Kent in 1818, which preceded the birth of Queen Victoria. The cottage’s history enriches the narrative of the British monarchy’s domestic life during a transformative period.Preservation and Public Access
Today, Queen Charlotte's Cottage is open to visitors on weekends from April to September, included with admission to Kew Gardens. It stands as a well-preserved example of 18th-century royal leisure architecture and offers insights into Georgian tastes and garden culture. The site is cared for by Historic Royal Palaces, ensuring its conservation for future generations to appreciate its historical and cultural significance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Charlotte's Cottage
0.0 km
Discover the charming 18th-century rustic retreat of Queen Charlotte nestled in Kew Gardens' tranquil woodland and royal heritage.
Richmond Bridge
1.7 km
Richmond Bridge, London's oldest Thames crossing, blends 18th-century Palladian elegance with timeless riverside charm.
Aparthotel Adagio London Brentford
2.0 km
Modern aparthotel in Brentford offering spacious apartments, fitness facilities, and easy access to Heathrow and central London.
Richmond Hill - Viewing Point
2.3 km
Britain's only parliamentary-protected view, where the Thames winds through timeless meadowland.
Barmy Arms
3.3 km
Charming riverside pub in Twickenham offering scenic Thames views, classic pub fare, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Church Street Twickenham
3.3 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
5.5 km
Victorian engineering marvel spanning the Thames with a turbulent history of bombs, closures, and remarkable resilience.
Mr Mathias Winkler
6.0 km
Discover exceptional healthcare at Mr. Mathias Winkler's practice in London’s Charing Cross Hospital, where patient care meets expertise.
Queen Victoria Monument
7.4 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.
The SkyEx Community Stadium
7.4 km
Discover the electric atmosphere of The SkyEx Community Stadium in Hayes, where sports and community spirit come alive in an unforgettable experience.
Cannizaro Park
7.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Cannizaro Park in London, a perfect retreat with stunning gardens, tranquil lakes, and peaceful walking paths.
Leighton House
7.5 km
Discover the opulence of 19th-century art at Leighton House, an art museum showcasing the legacy of Frederic Leighton in London.
The Tower House
7.6 km
A stunning Victorian Gothic Revival townhouse in London, blending medieval artistry with rock legend heritage.
Freddie Mercury Blue Plaque
7.7 km
Discover the modest Feltham home where Freddie Mercury’s legendary musical journey began and his legacy is forever commemorated.
West London Film Studios
7.7 km
Explore the enchanting world of filmmaking at West London Film Studios, where creativity and cinematic magic come to life in every corner.
Unmissable attractions to see
Marianne North Gallery
0.8 km
Explore over 800 vibrant botanical paintings by pioneering Victorian artist Marianne North in a unique gallery at Kew Gardens.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
0.9 km
Explore Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site blending historic beauty, botanical diversity, and immersive garden experiences in Richmond, London.
Syon Park
0.9 km
Explore centuries of history, stunning gardens, and the iconic Great Conservatory at Syon Park, the London home of the Duke of Northumberland.
Richmond Green
1.3 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.
One Paved Court
1.4 km
An intimate artist-run gallery in historic Richmond, showcasing innovative contemporary art in a charming Georgian setting.
Museum of Richmond
1.6 km
Explore Richmond’s rich heritage and royal past in the welcoming Old Town Hall museum with free entry and engaging exhibitions.
Richmond Riverside
1.6 km
A peaceful Thames-side haven in Richmond with historic charm, scenic views, and riverside pubs perfect for relaxing strolls and river activities.
The Musical Museum
1.8 km
Discover the enchanting world of self-playing instruments and live Wurlitzer concerts at Brentford’s Musical Museum.
The Poppy Factory
1.9 km
Discover the heart of remembrance and veteran support at The Poppy Factory, Richmond’s historic home of handcrafted poppies and wreaths.
The National Archives
1.9 km
Explore a millennium of British history through original documents, exhibitions, and tranquil grounds at The National Archives in Kew.
London Museum of Water & Steam
2.0 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.
Terrace Gardens
2.2 km
A serene formal garden on Richmond Hill offering iconic, protected views over the River Thames and seasonal floral beauty.
Boston Manor Park
2.2 km
A historic 28-acre park in Brentford blending Jacobean heritage, waterways, and family-friendly green spaces.
Boston Manor House
2.3 km
Explore a beautifully restored 17th-century Jacobean manor set in serene parkland, showcasing rich history, rare interiors, and vibrant community heritage.
Chiswick Bridge
2.4 km
Discover the charm and scenic beauty of Chiswick Bridge, a historic landmark in London offering stunning views of the Thames River.
Essential places to dine
La Rosetta Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm family hospitality at La Rosetta, a beloved Brentford dining destination.
A Cena
1.9 km
Refined Southern Italian dining with generous portions, warm ambience, and a curated cocktail bar in the heart of East Twickenham.
Man vs Food
2.1 km
Bold American flavours and massive portions meet lively challenges in Isleworth’s vibrant Man Vs Food diner.
The Petersham Restaurant
2.4 km
Elegant British fine dining with stunning Thames views in Richmond’s historic mid-Victorian setting.
Brouge Gastropub
5.2 km
Experience authentic Belgian beers and hearty British-Belgian cuisine in the welcoming heart of Twickenham’s Fulwell neighbourhood.
Il Portico
7.7 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
The Ladbroke Arms
8.1 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove
8.1 km
Experience authentic Turkish barbecue and vibrant atmosphere at Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove, a beloved London institution for kebab lovers.
Core by Clare Smyth
8.3 km
Experience three-Michelin-starred modern British cuisine by Clare Smyth in an elegant Notting Hill setting, where sustainability meets culinary artistry.
Osteria Napoletana
8.3 km
Cozy Neapolitan eatery in Notting Hill serving authentic southern Italian classics with warm hospitality and a lively atmosphere.
La mia Mamma Notting Hill
8.3 km
Experience authentic Italian regional cuisine prepared by real mammas in a warm, lively Notting Hill trattoria setting.
Le Taj
8.3 km
Experience authentic and innovative Indian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of Feltham at Le Taj.
Gold
8.3 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
8.3 km
Experience authentic Roman cuisine and warm Italian hospitality in the heart of London’s vibrant Portobello Road.
The Sushi Co - Notting Hill
8.3 km
Fresh, flavorful sushi and Asian dishes served late in a casual Portobello Road spot with friendly service and gluten-free options.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Always & Forever - Wedding Dresses London
4.1 km
Premier family-run bridal boutique in Hounslow offering over 700 gowns and personalized, pressure-free service for your perfect wedding dress.
Stuff
4.3 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in a charming West London boutique with a personal touch and curated collections.
The London Heritage
6.7 km
A boutique heritage hotel in Canary Wharf blending historic elegance with modern luxury and wellness amenities.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
7.7 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
7.7 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
the Design Museum Shop
7.8 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
7.9 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
8.2 km
Classic British tailoring meets playful innovation at Paul Smith's elegant Notting Hill flagship in historic Westbourne House.
The Blue Door
8.3 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
8.3 km
London's legendary street market where antiques, vintage fashion, and treasures await discovery in vibrant Notting Hill.
Goldsmith Vintage
8.3 km
Discover chic vintage treasures at Goldsmith Vintage on bustling Portobello Road, where timeless fashion meets Notting Hill's iconic market charm.
Hangout Clothing
8.4 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
8.4 km
Discover Jovonna's feminine edge on Portobello Road: classic meets contemporary in Notting Hill's fashion heartbeat.
Portobello Gifts Shop London
8.4 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
8.4 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
1.2 km
Historic Georgian riverside pub in Isleworth offering classic ales, scenic Thames views, and lively community events.
The Sussex Arms
4.3 km
A lively gastropub in Twickenham offering craft ales, hearty British dishes, and a welcoming beer garden for all seasons.
Star & Scorpion
4.4 km
A lively gastropub in West Ealing serving American-inspired dishes, craft cocktails, and featuring private heated cabins with Sky Sports.
The Curtains Up
6.8 km
A cozy West Kensington pub blending hearty British fare, lively theatre, and warm local charm for a memorable experience.
The M Bar
6.9 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.
The Queen's Head, Cranford
7.2 km
Historic 400-year-old pub in Cranford blending traditional charm with modern gastropub dining and lively entertainment near Heathrow.
Green Man
7.9 km
Historic British pub near Heathrow with traditional charm, lively events, dog-friendly spaces, and unique plane-spotting views.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
8.0 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 Elgin
8.1 km
Opulent Notting Hill gastropub with historic charm, seasonal British dishes, gin haven, beer garden buzz, and versatile private event spaces.
The Week
8.3 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
8.3 km
Gin mastery on Portobello Road: vintage vibes, craft cocktails, and Notting Hill's electric market energy in one cozy retreat.
Trailer Happiness
8.3 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
8.3 km
A cozy, retro-styled Notting Hill basement bar focused on tequila and mezcal with bold, handcrafted cocktails.
The Earl of Lonsdale
8.3 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
8.4 km
Intimate Portobello Road cocktail bar with polished service, crafted drinks and a warm, late‑night Notting Hill atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Le Fez
6.2 km
Experience Putney’s premier Moroccan-inspired nightclub with lush lounges, vibrant dancefloors, and unforgettable late-night entertainment.
Lost In Disco
6.2 km
An intimate West London disco night celebrating 1970s–80s funk, soul and floor-filling classics with DJs, guest singers and a glittering dancefloor.
Ricco London
7.1 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
The Duke of Wellington
8.3 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Electric House
8.3 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
8.6 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
8.6 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
Subteranian
8.7 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
B London
9.0 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
9.2 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
Metric
9.2 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
9.4 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
9.9 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Infernos Nightclub
11.7 km
Clapham’s legendary two-floor nightclub where wild nights, iconic music, and unforgettable parties come alive until dawn.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
11.8 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
