Set in 326 acres of beautiful grounds containing the world’s most diverse collection of living plants, Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site less than 30 minutes from central London
The Gardens’ famous glasshouses provide hours of fascinating discovery whether it’s a tropical rainforest in the steamy environment of the iconic Palm House; a journey through ten climatic zones in the Princess of Wales Conservatory or giant lily pads in the Waterlily House. And be sure not to miss the hidden gems of the Alpine and Bonsai houses.
A soaring tree-top walkway offers the chance of a bird’s eye view of the Gardens and for those without a head for heights, three art galleries all dedicated to botanical art examine the beauty and intricacy of flora from around the world. Kew Palace, the former summer residence of George III, is Britain’s most intimate royal palace. Open from Easter to late September, admission to the Palace and adjacent Royal Kitchens is included in the cost of entry to the Gardens.
Princess of Wales conservatory
Summer 2016 at Kew Gardens heralds the arrival of two exceptional projects. The Great Broad Walk Borders will become a permanent, horticultural feature and the world’s largest double herbaceous border. Designed by Richard Wilford of Kew Gardens’ horticultural team, it will flank both sides of the 320-metre long Broad Walk and feature over 30,000 plants to ensure a dazzling display of colour for years to come.
Meanwhile, The Hive is a dramatic, fully immersive and interactive 17-metre high installation designed to examine the plight of the world’s bees and highlight the vital role they play in pollinating crop species around the globe. An extraordinary aluminium honeycomb structure with light and soundscapes activ
ated by bees in a real hive, The Hive will be open from mid-June 2016 until November 2017 at no extra cost.
Discounted rates for groups of 15 or more people are available from £11.90 for seniors and £12.75 for adults. For more information and bookings, please contact 020 8332 5648 or email groups@kew.org Full details of how to book your group’s visit online can be found at www.kew.org/groups
