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Kew Gardens address | Location, getting there, parking facilities & more

Kew GardensDirections

Kew Gardens is the ultimate plant lover's dream. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to 50,000+ plant species, cool glasshouses, and 132 hectares of stunning landscapes. Here’s a guide that will help you find your way to the gardens without any hitch!

Where is Kew Gardens located?

Getting to Kew Gardens by public transport

By boat
By bus
By train
By tube

Best for: Visitors seeking a scenic route

Travel time: 1.5 hours from Westminster Pier

Closest stop: Kew Gardens Pier, 1.1 km from the gardens

Cruise Schedule:

  • From Westminster to Kew: 11am and 2:30pm daily, with an extra 10:30am departure on weekends and during peak seasons.
  • From Kew to Westminster: Return sailings at 12:30pm, 3:30pm, and 5pm.

Cruise along the Thames from Westminster to Kew, passing iconic sights like the London Eye and Hammersmith Bridge. It’s a relaxed journey through historic neighborhoods with leafy riverside views all the way.

Best for: Budgeted travellers

Travel time: From Earl’s Court, it’s a 35-minute ride; from Richmond Station, you’ll be there in just 10–15 minutes.

Closest stop: Kew Road/Victoria Gate (Stop R) (0.04 km) and Kew Gardens Station (H) (0.32 km)

Timings: Buses usually run from 5am to 12 midnight, with a bus running every 10-20 mins

Take bus routes 65, 110, 391 or R68 for a smooth trip to Kew Gardens. They stop near Victoria Gate and Kew Green, placing you minutes from the action.

Best for: Avoiding traffic and travelling without a hiccup

Travel time: Around 30-mins from Waterloo

Closest stop: Kew Bridge Station, 1.2 km away from the garden

Timings: Trains generally run from 5am to 12:30am, with one running every 15-30 mins

Catch a South Western Railway train from London Waterloo to Kew Bridge Station. The journey takes around 30 minutes, with scenic views and a short walk to the Brentford Gate entrance.

Best for: Convenient access

Travel time: Around 30 minutes from Westminster 

Closest stop: Kew Gardens Station, around 0.32 km from the gardens

Timings: Tube services typically operate from 5am to 12:30am, with trains arriving every 10-20 mins throughout the day.

From Westminster Station, catch the District Line train heading towards Richmond. The journey to Kew Gardens Station takes around 40 minutes and offers a direct, scenic route.

Getting to Kew Gardens by car

Driving route
Parking facilities

Best for: Travelling at your own pace and comfort

Travel time: Approximately 30 mins from central London

Head west from Central London on the A4 or A316 towards Richmond. The journey to Kew Gardens takes around 30-35 mins and leads you to Brentford Gate, where visitor parking is available.

  • Limited paid parking available at Brentford Gate (£7-£9 per day)
  • Alternative parking: Free street parking available outside Kew Green on Sundays & Bank Holidays
























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Walking to Kew Gardens

Travel time: 20-mins

Distance: Approximately 1.2 km 

Ideal for: Scenic stroll lovers

Start your walk at Richmond Station and enjoy a breezy 20-25 mins walk along the Thames Path. It’s quite a peaceful route where you can soak up river views, historic houses, and birdsong before reaching Kew Gardens.

How to enter Kew Gardens?

Kew Gardens has four lovely entrances, each with its own perks:

  • Victoria Gate is the main one, right near Kew Gardens Station. It’s where you’ll find the visitor center, café, gift shop, and ticket desk.
  • Elizabeth Gate sits close to Richmond Station and gets you quickest to Kew Palace, the Queen’s Garden, and the Orangery Restaurant for a tasty break.
  • Brentford Gate is the go-to if you’re parking—perfect for heading straight to the Children’s Garden, Climbers & Creepers play zone, and the Pavilion Bar & Grill.
  • Lion Gate on Kew Road is the most peaceful pick, away from the crowds. It takes you right to the Japanese Garden and Temperate House.

Frequently Asked Questions about getting to Kew Gardens

Can I use a contactless card on trains to Kew Gardens?

Yes, contactless payment works on most National Rail trains to Kew. Just tap in and out like the Tube.

Is Kew Gardens Station wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Kew Gardens Station has step-free access, but the bridge between platforms has stairs, so use the ramped side for assistance.

Can I bring a foldable bike on the train to Kew?

Yes, foldable bikes are allowed on trains and inside Kew Gardens, as long as they’re folded and not ridden onsite.

Is there a designated area for bike parking?

Yes, bike racks are available near every entrance—just bring your own lock and avoid securing bikes to fences or gates.

Which side of Kew Gardens is closest to the Thames Path?

Elizabeth Gate is the handiest entrance if you're strolling along the Thames Path. Just follow the river from Richmond.

Does the boat ride from Westminster operate year-round?

No, the riverboat service usually runs from April to October. Check exact dates before planning your scenic cruise to Kew.

What’s the best entrance for those arriving by boat?

Kew Pier is closest to Elizabeth Gate. It’s just a short 5-minute walk with signs pointing you toward the gardens as you dock.

Can I take an Uber to Kew Gardens?

Absolutely. Just set your destination to your preferred entrance—Victoria Gate and Elizabeth Gate usually work best for rideshare drop-offs.

Can I access all entrances with a pram or buggy?

Yes, all entrances are pram-friendly, but Brentford Gate and Victoria Gate are the easiest for step-free access and wide paths.