Visit Kew Gardens
in London
In the heart of west London, 121 hectares of Victorian glasshouses and Japanese gardens await you. Follow an immersive route where every path reveals a rare species. The perfect botanical escape from the urban bustle.
Ticket options
Prices and conditions
Current and upcoming temporary exhibitions
Henry Moore: Monumental Nature
May 9, 2026 - January 31, 2027
The exhibition has over 100 pieces. See 30 large sculptures in the Gardens and over 70 works on paper, models, and smaller pieces in the Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art.
Kew Gardens: Entry Ticket
From 29,15 €.
A breath of fresh air in one of the world's largest botanical gardens.
Kew Gardens + Kensington Palace: Entry Ticket
From 55,96 €.
The best royal combo since Harry and Meghan.
What visitors say
Thousands of visitors have already booked their visit: reviews and testimonials
★ 4.6/5 · 12 reviews collected directly from visitors and moderated by Visit Tickets
"We arrived at 10 am and the paths were empty. The Palm House is truly a sight to behold with its giant palms. We had a picnic to avoid the high prices of the cafes, and the morning light made the Japanese Gardens absolutely magical."
"The site is enormous, count on at least 15,000 steps. I loved the Chinese Pagoda, but it can be hard to find your way without clear arrows. Grab the interactive map first! The view of the Thames from the suspension bridge is definitely worth it for your photos."
"A soothing green escape in the heart of London. The kids were fascinated by the red bridges in the Nippon Teien. The combined ticket with Kensington Palace was a smart move. Only disappointment: a 20-minute queue at the ticket desk despite our early arrival."
"The Evolution House offers a unique vertical experience through five different biomes. It's impressive to see so much plant diversity in a single building. The informational panels are very well done and help you understand each rare species you encounter."
"A beautiful botanical trail, though the lawns looked a bit tired under the sun. The Temperate House is still magnificent with its ancient cycads. Wear good shoes as some paths are difficult. The 29 € price is justified by the vastness of the place."
"On my own, I was able to enjoy the 121 hectares in peace. The colossal herbarium mentioned in the guides blew me away during the guided tour. The Princess of Wales Conservatory houses rare succulents that are truly worth the visit. A total immersion into Victorian nature."
"Our family stay was perfect. The colorful statues in the Japanese gardens captivated our children. We followed the advice to arrive early to avoid the groups. The Palm House was deserted, which allowed us to take great photos without tourists around."
"The UNESCO status is well deserved, you can feel the universal value of the place. However, the restaurants lack organization with long lines. Bring your own picnic. The Georgian structure of the Temperate House is spectacular and houses an astonishing variety of temperate plants."
"The morning light on the Thames is fairytale-like. I photographed the Pagoda from the bridge as recommended. The park is vast, but the downloadable interactive map really helps identify the open greenhouses. A welcome contrast to urban noise, ideal for recharging after a day in the capital."
"Founded in 1759, the royal heritage oozes out of every detail. The Chinese Pagoda, built in 1761, is an iconic symbol. The 30,000 living species aren't just a theoretical number, you see them everywhere. The welcome is warm and the explanations about the botanical collections are very educational."
"An enriching experience despite the crowds at the sales points. The Nippon Teien, created in 2003, is very peaceful. Heads up, coffee drinks are expensive compared to their quality. But the overall view of the Victorian greenhouses and formal gardens more than makes up for these small everyday inconveniences."
"I visited alone during my holidays. The Evolution House impressed me with its vertical design traversing different climates. You need to manage your time well because the 121 hectares demand strong legs. Paved paths alternate with dirt trails, so appropriate footwear is a must to finish the full loop."
Practical info
Everything you need to plan your visit
Address
TW9 3AB London, United Kingdom
England
South-West London · Metro: Kew Gardens (District Line) or Overground train. Direct exit onto Victoria Gate.
Opening hours
Hours vary by season (10am-5pm in winter, until 8pm in summer). Check exact dates before your visit.
Prices
Kew Gardens + Kensington Palace: Entry Ticket : From 55,96 €
From €29.15 for adults. Child and family rates are available online.
Visit duration
Photos
Audience
Accessibility
PMR
Wide paved paths, ramps into the greenhouses, and wheelchair rentals available at reception.
Family
Picnic areas, playgrounds, and shaded benches for regular family breaks.
Audio guide
English, English, Spanish
Weather in London
Current conditions and forecast to plan your visit
Discover Kew Gardens
Two centuries of botanical excellence
A global reference in plant conservation
1759
Year founded
121 ha
Total area
30 000+
Living species
2 M
Visitors per year
Located in west London, Kew Gardens is the largest botanical garden in the world with its 121 hectares. This site, a UNESCO World Heritage, is home to over 30,000 living species and attracts two million visitors annually. Ideal for a family day between Victorian glasshouses and wild trails. Check the ticket practical information before your visit to prepare for a smooth trip.
History of Kew Gardens
Founded in 1759, this royal estate was transformed during the reign of George III. The Chinese enthusiasm of the Georgian era inspired the construction of the pagoda in 1761. This iconic structure reflects the major cultural influence of Asia on Europe during this period. The botanical collection now counts over 30,000 species, a legacy of the Victorian imperial network. Check the ticket practical information before your visit to prepare for a smooth trip to the museum.
The Victorian institution consolidated its reputation through figures like Sir Joseph Banks. The collections were enriched with rare specimens from all corners of the globe. Today, the herbarium holds over 7 million preserved specimens, making Kew an essential scientific reference. Check the ticket practical information before your visit to prepare for a smooth trip to the museum.
Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2003, the site is recognized for its outstanding universal value. Plant conservation is carried out here with scientific rigor and historical passion. Every path tells a story of discovery and protection of global biodiversity. Check the ticket practical information before your visit to prepare for a smooth trip to the museum.
What to see at Kew Gardens
The Palm House and the Temperate House offer a tropical journey under glass. These Victorian greenhouses house majestic exotic plants in a controlled climate. The Princess of Wales Conservatory completes this immersion with its collections of carnivorous and succulent plants. Check the ticket practical information before your visit to prepare for a smooth trip to the museum.
The Japanese gardens of Nippon Teien bring peaceful serenity to the route. The Chinese Pagoda dominates the landscape from its summit, offering magnificent panoramic views. The Evolution House offers a modern approach to plant classification according to their evolution. Check the ticket practical information before your visit to prepare for a smooth trip to the museum.
With over 30,000 species, you should allow a minimum of 4 to 5 hours for a complete visit. Families will appreciate the playgrounds and shaded benches scattered across the site. Remember to check the seasonal opening hours of temporary exhibitions before you leave. Check the ticket practical information before your visit to prepare for a smooth trip to the museum.
Practical tips for your visit
The best time to visit is spring, when blooms are at their peak. However, each season offers specific attractions, from autumn colors to winter structures. Arrive at opening to explore the greenhouses without crowds and fully enjoy the natural light. Check the ticket practical information before your visit to prepare for a smooth trip to the museum.
Access from central London is simple via Kew Gardens station. Take the Victoria Gate as your main entry point to start your itinerary. Bring water and check the weather, as some outdoor areas may close in heavy rain. Check the ticket practical information before your visit to prepare for a smooth trip to the museum.
Kew Gardens highlights
Victorian greenhouses and exceptional gardens
Tips for visiting Kew Gardens
Insider tips
Choosing the right time slot
Arrive at 10:00 AM to enjoy empty paths and ideal morning light. Tour groups generally arrive after 11:30 AM, making the glasshouses more crowded. Check seasonal opening times before you leave.
Capturing the best photo angles
Photograph the Chinese Pagoda from the suspension bridge to include the Thames in the background. The Treetop Walkway offers a unique aerial perspective on the Temperate House. Avoid midday hours to minimize hard shadows.
Planning your meal breaks
Several cafes offer quick meals, but prices vary by season. Bring a picnic to save money and enjoy the shaded benches near the river. The fountains allow you to refresh yourself regularly.
Bringing a good pair of shoes
Count at least 15,000 steps for a complete visit of the 121 hectares. Some paths are paved, but others cross irregular grassy areas. Comfortable sneakers are essential all day long.
Visiting as a family with children
The Japanese gardens captivate the youngest visitors with their colorful bridges and statues. Plan frequent breaks and bring water for the long walks. The glasshouses offer a protected environment against the wind.
Prepare for weather conditions
Kew can be exposed to wind and rain, especially in autumn and winter. A light waterproof jacket protects without weighing down your bag. The greenhouses offer immediate shelter if the weather suddenly turns. Check the ticket's practical information before your visit so you can prepare with peace of mind.
Downloading the interactive map
The official map helps identify open glasshouses and temporary exhibitions. It also signals any weather-related closures or temporary works. Keep it accessible offline to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Optimizing your route from London
Take the District Line to Kew Gardens, the most direct option with no transfers. From Piccadilly Circus, expect about a 30-minute direct ride. The station is a few minutes' walk from Victoria Gate.
Book online to save time
Advance purchase guarantees entry and avoids queues at physical ticket counters. The indicative price is around €29.15 for adults. Keep your digital confirmation on your phone for smooth access.
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Little-known facts
The world's largest botanical garden
With 121 hectares and over 30,000 living species, this site is officially recognized as the largest botanical garden in the world. This expanse allows for remarkable ecological diversity, ranging from humid tropics to arid zones, offering a scale impossible to replicate elsewhere.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Inscribed in 2003, this place is protected for its outstanding universal value in plant conservation. This recognition highlights its central role in scientific research and the preservation of global biodiversity for several centuries.
A colossal herbarium
The collections include a herbarium containing over 7 million specimens preserved with remarkable scientific precision. These plant archives constitute an invaluable biological memory for researchers studying plant evolution and environmental interactions.
Victorian royal heritage
Founded in 1759, the site was transformed into a major institution under the reign of George III and the Victorian era. This period of expansion defined the current architecture and its status as an international reference for academic botany and exotic collection.
Sir William Chambers' Pagoda
Built in 1761, this emblematic structure reflects the Chinese enthusiasm of the Georgian era and remains a major visual focal point. Its distinctive silhouette has dominated the landscape for three centuries and embodies the spirit of exoticism that shaped the garden's identity.
Two million annual visitors
Each year, approximately 2 million people pass through the gates of this green sanctuary to escape the city. This constant influx testifies to the timeless appeal of the place, which successfully balances mass tourism and botanical tranquility thanks to its considerable size.
Integrating Kew Gardens into your trip to London
Three itineraries depending on available time
The essentials in 4 hours
- 10:00: Arrival via Victoria Gate and online ticket purchase to skip the queue.
- 10:30: Quick guided tour of the Palm House and Temperate House, two Victorian gems.
- 12:00: Light lunch near the Chinese Pagoda with a stunning view over the Thames valley.
- 13:00: Stroll through the Nippon Teien Japanese gardens for a contemplative break before heading back.
Full immersion over 8 hours
- 10:00: Opening and methodical exploration of the main glasshouses, including Evolution House.
- 12:30: Lunch break in the open gardens, enjoying shaded benches near the river.
- 14:00: Immersive walk through the Nippon Teien Japanese gardens, the spiritual heart of the site.
- 16:00: Climb the Treetop Walkway for a unique panoramic view over the living collections.
- 17:30: Quiet return to Richmond or London via the District Line, light luggage.
Botanical and cultural weekend
- Day 1 morning: Complete exploration of Kew Gardens, priority given to the glasshouses and rare collections.
- Day 1 afternoon: Natural extension to Richmond Park to observe deer in their habitat.
- Day 2 morning: Visit Kew Palace and its private gardens, a testament to royal history.
- Day 2 evening: Dinner in the lively Richmond area, then easy return to central London.
Go City London Explorer Pass: 2 to 7 attractions, including the Tower of London
Save up to 50%* on entry to major London attractions with the Go City London Pass® Plus.
From 74,62 €
See also
More must-see experiences in London
Interactive map
Find the attraction and nearby places to visit
Near Kew Gardens
Make time to explore the surrounding area
Kew Palace
5 min walk
Residence from the 18th century nestled in the gardens, offering a glimpse into the aristocratic history of the site and its daily life.
De La Warr Pavilion
10 min walk
Modernist masterpiece of architecture overlooking the Thames, perfect for a cultural break after visiting the tropical greenhouses.
The Pagoda Tea Rooms
On site
Tea room historic location at the foot of the pagoda, ideal for an elegant picnic under the century-old trees of the royal park.
Richmond Park
15 min walk
Royal park adjacent to the gardens, home to wild deer, naturally extending the botanical escape into the surrounding urban nature.
Cineworld Richmond
10 min bus
Cinema complex modern facility to end the day with a movie after the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Kew Bridge Station
5 min walk
Strategic transport hub directly connecting to central London via the Overground and District lines, ideal for reaching Kew Gardens in under 30 minutes.
How to get to Kew Gardens
Estimated travel times from the main points in the city
Metro : Kew Gardens Station (9 min walk) Bus : Kew Road / Victoria Gate (Stop R) (5 min walk)
- From Kew Gardens Station 0,7 km → 11 min
- From Paddington Station 9,2 km → 45 min
- From Victoria Station 10,6 km → 50 min
- From Kew Bridge 1,3 km → 13 min
- From Waterloo 13,0 km → 60 min
- From Kew Gardens Station 0,7 km → 5 min
- From Paddington Station 9,2 km → 34 min
- From Victoria Station 10,6 km → 38 min
- From Kew Bridge 1,3 km → 7 min
- From Waterloo 13,0 km → 46 min
- From Kew Gardens Station 0,7 km → 5 min
- From Paddington Station 9,2 km → 45 min
- From Victoria Station 10,6 km → 51 min
- From Kew Bridge 1,3 km → 8 min
- From Waterloo 13,0 km → 62 min
- From Kew Gardens Station 0,7 km → 9 min
- From Kew Bridge 1,3 km → 17 min
Accommodation
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Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know before your visit
Booking
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Kew Gardens on video
A preview of this exceptional place before your visit
Kew Gardens in pictures
See what to expect during your visit
Kew Gardens vs other major botanical gardens
Quick comparison with other iconic sites
| Kew Gardens | Jardin des Plantes Paris | Botanic Gardens Singapore | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year established | 1759 | 1626 | 1859 |
| Area (hectares) | 121 | 14 | 28 |
| Recommended visit duration | 4 to 8 hours | 2 to 3 hours | 3 to 4 hours |
| Distinctive feature | UNESCO World Heritage Site | National Museum of Natural History | Illuminated Supertree Grove |
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