Kew Gardens

What makes it special

The Palm House holds more than 1,000 species from across the tropics, a living rainforest in London. One of its cycads is the oldest potted plant in the world.

The Temperate House is the world's largest Victorian glasshouse, home to rare and threatened plants. Look inside for the Chilean wine palm. A third glasshouse, the Princess of Wales Conservatory, leads you through ten computer-controlled climate zones, each a different ecosystem.

The Treetop Walkway runs 18 metres above the ground through the branches of sweet chestnut, beech, horse chestnut and oak. Kew's Arboretum holds 11,000 trees, including rare and ancient varieties.

The Great Pagoda was completed in 1762 as a gift for Princess Augusta, one of several Chinese buildings Sir William Chambers designed for Kew. Look up at its roofs for the 80 dragons, each carved from gilded wood. Inside, 253 steps climb to the observation area.

Nearby, the Japanese Landscape joins a Garden of Peace, a Garden of Activity and a Garden of Harmony. Its gateway, Chokushi-Mon, is a near replica of a temple gate in Kyoto.

Visiting

The visit is easiest as a loop from Victoria Gate, where the Palm House is the first landmark, on your right. Climb its winding staircase to the upper walkway to see the ferns and climbers at canopy level.

Walk on to the Temperate House, near Lion Gate. For step-free entry, follow the signs to its western side. Then head for the Treetop Walkway, reached by 118 steps, which can close in bad weather.

Finish at the Japanese Landscape, near the Great Pagoda.

Guided or on your own

Kew's Introduction to the Gardens tour is included with entry and runs daily at 11am and 1.30pm. An experienced guide covers the Gardens' history, its work and the plants in season. Take it if you want the glasshouses and trees explained as you walk; on your own, the loop from Victoria Gate covers the main sights.

Tips

There are no lockers or bag storage in the Gardens, and bags may be searched at the gates and glasshouses, so carry little. Picnics are welcome on the grass, but leave barbecues and picnic furniture at home.

Bicycles, scooters, skateboards and roller skates are not allowed, nor are ball games or jogging, and pets stay at home. Prams are welcome, with buggy parks in key areas; at the Treetop Walkway, leave buggies at ground level and keep children with you.

A limited number of wheelchairs can be borrowed at every public gate, with no need to book. The Palm House takes wheelchairs but not mobility scooters.

Book online ahead, or buy any ticket type at the gates. Children aged 16 and under must come with an adult, and evening events such as Christmas at Kew need a separate ticket.