Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Richmond, United Kingdom

You might not think of a botanic garden as a historic site, but the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, London (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) have a firm place in the history of gardening. Established from a collection of royal estates in 1759, they demonstrate different garden styles through the centuries. The gardens are also home to 44 historic buildings, including royal residences, Victorian greenhouses and garden follies.

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Founded: 18th century
Category: Miscellaneous historic sites in United Kingdom

Rating

4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

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User Reviews

Aditee Soorjonowa (37 days ago)
HUGE!! SO much to see. Perfect activity for those who love plants, flowers and anything botanical. Bought tickets online - slightly cheaper. Beautiful landscapes. Couldn't see the entire place. Easy to get lost but if you follow the signs and/or map (pick one up at the entrance) you should be fine. Visited the stunning glasshouse. It was massive and also had a really pretty treetop walkway. Visited during mid February so wasn't crazy busy but can imagine it gets much more lively during the spring and summer months.
S W (40 days ago)
We visited the Orchid Festival at Kew with our 3-year-old and newborn. It wasn't too busy or crowded so we had plenty of time to look and take photographs. Our 3-year-old really enjoyed trying to spot all the "animals", including the floral chameleons. She also loved the pitcher plants and Venus fly traps in the adjacent conservatory section. This is a really impressive and striking exhibition. It reminded me of the chocolate factory in the Gene Wilder Willy Wonka film! A real feast for the eyes, and magical to behold. Enjoyable for all the family.
Daniela Moraes (41 days ago)
Very nice garden, it’s huge and there is a lot to see, I would recommend you to spend around 4-5h there, be prepared to walk a lot, they do exhibitions sometimes and you have to book in advance, you can see information on their website. Entry fee £9 (student)
Sarah J Price (47 days ago)
Whatever the season Kew Gardens never disappoints, this visit was to see the Orchid festival which was truly beautiful, held in the Princess of Wales Conservatory ( on until 3rd March). But the whole site is full of beautiful plants, flowers and trees. I cannot recommend a visit enough.
Ingrid Jones (47 days ago)
Visited the Temperate House and the Palm House plus the Orchid Exhibition. The Orchids did not produce the WOW, I had expected but there were some very good examples. We enjoyed a Tea for Two in the Botanical Restaurant. Fresh sandwich fingers, cream scones and an assortment of mini cakes. Very attentive service. The assistance of Sue at the Entrance Ticket booth, was much appreciated as I was worried as I had not been able to print out my vouchers. Thank you Sue!
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