Kew Gardens travel guide

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, is a world-renowned botanical research and education institution, boasting an impressive history that spans more than 250 years.

Founded in 1759, the gardens were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, reflecting their significant contribution to the study of plant diversity and economic botany.

Originally, the gardens were royal pleasure grounds, but they evolved into a hub for scientific research under the stewardship of Sir Joseph Banks in the late 18th century.

Today, Kew Gardens houses the largest and most diverse botanical and mycological collections in the world. The garden's living collections include more than 30,000 different kinds of plants, while the herbarium houses over seven million preserved plant specimens.

The Kew site also includes historic buildings such as Kew Palace and the iconic Palm House, both of which reflect the garden's rich history. This enchanting garden continues to be a place of research, conservation, and education, serving as a testament to the importance of plants in our world.

One of the most distinctive features of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is its vast living plant collection, containing over 50,000 different species, one of the largest in the world. The Gardens are also home to iconic glasshouses, such as the Palm House, which hosts a tropical rainforest, and the Temperate House, the world's largest surviving Victorian glasshouse.

Kew’s Arboretum is a living library of over 14,000 trees, some dating back to the 18th century. Another unique feature is the Treetop Walkway, standing at 18 meters high and providing a bird’s eye view of the garden. The Gardens also house the Millennium Seed Bank, the largest wild plant seed bank in the world.

Kew's Herbarium is another highlight, containing over seven million preserved plant specimens. The Marianne North Gallery, dedicated to the botanical artist Marianne North, contains a unique collection of 833 paintings of plants and flowers. These features, combined with its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, make the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew a truly remarkable destination for nature lovers.

The iconic Kew Gardens, situated at Richmond, UK, stands as a must-visit landmark in Brentford. Its location within the vibrant London Borough of Richmond upon Thames offers visitors a seamless connection to the charming landscapes and rich culture of England.

More than just a backdrop of stunning scenery, Brentford, as a town, is a treasure trove of cultural experiences and modern conveniences. Its unique blend of history and contemporary charm ensures there’s something for every traveler to enjoy.

Kew Gardens shines in all seasons, each offering unique sights and experiences. Get additional tips and inspiration to make the most of your visit to this town.

Getting to Kew Gardens is possible with a variety of transportation options, but planning ahead is essential to ensure a smooth journey in Brentford, England.

If you're arriving by air , you'll arrive at Gatwick Airport, which is approximately 23.3 miles (37.5 km) from the town center. From there, you can then plan your onward journey with a taxi, shuttle, or private transfer for a direct route to Kew Gardens.

If you're already in Brentford, the journey to Kew Gardens is an adventure in itself. Located 1.2 miles (2 km) from central Brentford, you can choose from local buses, taxis, or guided tours to reach it. Kew Gardens is situated at Richmond, UK, and is well worth the trip!

Prepare for an unforgettable journey of discovery in England. With your travel plans set, you're ready to embark on a memorable experience at Kew Gardens.

The best time to explore Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons. These periods offer comfortable weather and showcase the gardens in their full splendor. Spring brings a riot of colors with blossoming flowers and fresh foliage, while autumn paints a beautiful picture with shades of gold and russet. Special events like the Orchids Festival in February and the Christmas at Kew light festival in December provide unique experiences and are crowd-pullers. However, summer (June-August) is also a good time to visit, especially for the Full of Spice summer festival and to enjoy the Waterlily House. For those who wish to avoid crowds, weekdays are ideal as weekends can be busy. Regardless of when you choose to visit, early mornings or late afternoons are recommended for a peaceful experience. Always check the official website for event dates and timings to plan your visit effectively.

As Kew Gardens is located in an area that can be tricky to navigate without proper planning, these packages handle logistics by organizing transportation, accommodations, and activities.

Delve deeper and discover the top travel plans for exploring Kew Gardens in England.

When preparing for your visit to Kew Gardens, it's essential to find the perfect place to stay. Discover your perfect accommodation near Kew Gardens in this section, with options for all travel types—carefully selected from the biggest selection of hotels and places to stay in Brentford.

Start each day with a breathtaking view, setting the perfect tone for your exploration of Kew Gardens. With round-the-clock customer support, best price guarantees, and top-rated accommodations, you can rest easy knowing you're in good hands.

Syon Park is located in Brent Lea, Brentford TW8 8JF, UK.

Whether you’re visiting for a brief stop or planning to spend more time exploring, this attraction adds something special to your trip. You can visit it at Jersey Rd, Isleworth TW7 4RB, UK.

Located at Boston Manor Rd, Brentford TW8 9JU, UK giving you ample opportunities to enjoy the site.

Check out the full list of top attractions in Brentford below to discover even more incredible places to visit.