Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: A Living Legacy of Botanical Wonder
Explore Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site blending historic beauty, botanical diversity, and immersive garden experiences 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 stunning landscapes. Spanning 132 hectares, it features iconic structures like the Palm House, the Temperate House, and the Great Pagoda, alongside extensive themed gardens, a treetop walkway, and the historic Kew Palace. Visitors experience year-round botanical displays, seasonal events, and immersive educational exhibits in a tranquil yet vibrant setting.
A brief summary to Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
- Richmond, GB
- +442083325655
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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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
- Visit early in the day to enjoy the glasshouses before they close and to avoid peak crowds.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the gardens cover a large area with varied terrain.
- Check the schedule for seasonal events like Christmas at Kew or the Orchid Festival for unique experiences.
- Use the Kew Explorer land train for easier access around the extensive grounds, especially for those with limited mobility.
- Bring a camera to capture the iconic glasshouses, the Great Pagoda views, and the vibrant gardens.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
Take the London Overground to Kew Gardens station, approximately 20-30 minutes from central London. The station is a 5-minute walk from the gardens’ Elizabeth Gate. Trains run frequently, with ticket prices ranging from £3 to £6 depending on travel zones.
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Bus
Bus routes 65, 110, and 237 serve Kew Gardens from nearby areas, with journey times from 30 to 60 minutes depending on starting point. Buses stop near the Victoria Gate and Lion Gate. Single fares cost around £1.75 with contactless payment.
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Riverboat
During warmer months, riverboat services operate from central London to Kew Pier, offering a scenic 45-60 minute journey. From the pier, it is a 10-minute walk to the Brentford Gate. Tickets cost approximately £10-£15.
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Car
Driving to Kew Gardens is possible but parking is very limited and often requires advance booking or use of nearby public car parks. Travel times vary widely by traffic, typically 30-60 minutes from central London. Consider park-and-ride options to avoid congestion.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Historic Roots and Global Botanical Significance
Established in 1759, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, trace their origins to an 18th-century exotic garden and have evolved into one of the world's most important botanical institutions. Encompassing 132 hectares, the gardens are a Grade I listed historic park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting centuries of garden design by renowned landscape architects such as Capability Brown and William Chambers. The site houses over 14,000 trees and thousands of plant species, making it a global hub for plant diversity, conservation, and botanical research.Architectural Marvels and Glasshouse Wonders
Kew’s architectural heritage is embodied in its iconic glasshouses and listed buildings. The Palm House offers a lush tropical rainforest experience, home to some of the world’s oldest living plants. The Temperate House, the largest Victorian glasshouse, showcases rare temperate plants from across continents. The Princess of Wales Conservatory features ten climatic zones, including orchids, cacti, and carnivorous plants. Other highlights include the Waterlily House, Davies Alpine House, and the Great Pagoda, a striking 18th-century structure providing panoramic views.Immersive Gardens and Unique Experiences
Visitors can explore themed gardens such as the Great Broad Walk Borders, reputedly the longest double herbaceous border globally, and the Arboretum, home to diverse tree species. The Treetop Walkway offers a thrilling 18-metre-high perspective through the woodland canopy. The Hive installation provides a multisensory experience inspired by honeybee activity. Seasonal events like Christmas at Kew transform the gardens into a magical light trail, while the Orchid Festival brightens winter months with vibrant floral displays.Educational and Cultural Engagement
Kew Gardens combines leisure with learning through daily guided tours, exhibitions, and workshops. The Marianne North Gallery displays over 800 botanical artworks, and the Library and Reading Room hold extensive botanical archives. Kew Palace, the former royal residence, offers insight into Georgian royal life. The gardens also lead pioneering scientific research in plant conservation and ecology, making them a vital resource for global biodiversity.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
The gardens provide a range of amenities including cafés, restaurants, shops, restrooms, and picnic areas. Accessibility is prioritized with multiple gates, mobility aids, and detailed maps. Visitors can enjoy indoor and outdoor seating, seasonal food options, and educational resources. The site is well connected by public transport, with limited parking available. Tickets vary by season, with concessions and free entry for certain groups.Seasonal Appeal and Visitor Flow
Kew Gardens offers year-round appeal, with spring and summer showcasing vibrant blooms and autumn providing spectacular foliage. Winter visits are enhanced by the warm microclimates of the glasshouses and festive events. Crowd levels peak during weekends and holidays, especially in warmer months and during special exhibitions, while quieter times provide a more tranquil experience.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
- Rustic Designs
- Art Deco Styles
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
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
