We have a responsibility to the earth that we live in. This is the motto of The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, one of the most extensive botanical gardens in the world. It provides a haven to the largest and the most diverse mycological and botanical collections in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site provides sanctuary to more than 50,000 different plants and over 7 million preserved species. Kew Gardens aims to inspire people to protect the natural world and take steps to influence international policies in favour of the environment. Here, you get to explore the vast collection of 14,000 trees and walk across the lake in the middle of the wilderness. The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew is the perfect place for you to breathe in the lush environment while also contributing to it, simply by learning about its intricacies.
Davies Alpines are hardy trees, able to grow in higher than normal altitudes. The Alpine greenhouse harbors small ferns, lavenders, tulips, and other Alpine species and displays them when they are in full bloom.
This is a magnificent indoor rainforest that harbours tropical plants from some of the most threatening environments from all over the world. The Kew scientists rely on this collection of plants for medical research and research on sustainable cropping.
This greenhouse brings the different climates and wilderness of the world inside one building. You can stroll about the different zones with drinks and canapes from the reception.
It is the world’s largest Victorian glasshouse home to 10,000 species of plants from the temperate zones. It is an iconic venue for events, with a sea-gazing balcony and elegant green surroundings.
This is a small, square greenhouse originally made to display the giant Amazon Lily, a natural wonder. Today, it displays colorful water lilies, ferns, papyrus, and hanging gourds in the tropical area of Kew Gardens.
The house was gifted to the crown by the Australian Government. It has a collection of plants by Captain McEachern from the dry climates of southwest Australia.
Inspired by the Bonsai Japanese art form, this section includes miniature specimens of temperate woody trees and shrubs.
This Japanese architecture-inspired multistoried building provides a birds-eye view of London. This unique building is a testament to British craftsmanship, as it has been standing for over 250 years.
Chokushi-Mon is a smaller replica of the gateway of the Nishi-Hogan-Ji temple in Kyoto. It was built for the Japan-British Exhibition in 1910 and is surrounded by Japanese gardens.
Within the conservation area lies the cottage built for Queen Charlotte by her husband George Ⅲ in 1771. It is restored and opens to the public on weekends and bank holidays in the summers. Located opposite the Kew Palace, the cottage is over 300 years old.
In the center of the Mediterranean Garden stands King William's Temple, built in 1837 for Queen Victoria, in memory of William Ⅳ.
It was first built in the 1760s for the Greek god of winds. The version today was rebuilt in stone in 1845 and is a serene quiet place, perfect for reflection.
This structure was built as a folly for Princess Augusta in 1758. Later it was requisitioned into war service and unveiled as the home of War Memorial, commemorating the lost lives of Kewites in World War Ⅰ.
Situated adjacent to Victoria Plaza, this temple is named after the ancient goddess of war. On the walls of the oval room inside are garlands and medallions commemorating the units connected with the Seven Years’ War.
This little palace stands as the smallest of the British royal palaces. It was built by a Duch merchant around 1631 and has a distinctly Dutch appearance. Behind the Palace, we have the Queen’s garden, with medicinal plants, and in front of it is a 17th-century replica of a sun-dial.
In an effort to work on their aim of giving back to the environment, Kew Gardens strives to engage and educate the visitors on how essential it is to protect nature. There are events and education drives that are held to do exactly that. Here are some of the things you can expect from Kew Gardens.
A. Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew is one of the oldest and most extensive botanical gardens in the world.
A. Yes, there are activities for children to enjoy here. A few of them are Children’s Quiet Garden Sessions, Little Explorers, and The Little Gardener.
A. With so many things to explore in the Royal Botanic Gardens, you need at least a day chalked out.
A. Some of the top things to see here include, The Hive, Japanese Landscape, Lake and Slacker Crossing, Rose Garden, and Kew Garden Cinema.
A. Parking costs £7 per day in Kew Garden and is on a first come first serve basis. Know more about Kew Gardens parking facilities.
A. Yes, there are five cafes and restaurants here at the Royal Botanic Gardens.
A. Yes, you can carry your own picnic and have designated spots inside the garden.
A. Kew Gardens shops are located near Victoria Plaza, Children’s Garden, New Pavilion Building, and Victoria Gate. There is an online portal for the shops as well.