Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

About

Our gardens are open for those able to enjoy time in the fresh air. We are closing our buildings and structures as a precautionary measure during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. 

Breathtaking natural beauty, world class science and over 260 years of history combine at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Founded 1759, today our plant and fungal science and conservation research are tackling some of the world’s most urgent challenges.

Kew Gardens has one of the most diverse collections of living plants of any botanic garden in the world.

With ten computer-controlled climate zones, the Princess of Wales Conservatory is a glassy labyrinth leading you through a series of fascinating ecosystems.   

In our zone dedicated to carnivorous plants, you’ll discover the conditions that helped predatory species like Venus flytraps (Dionaea muscipula) or pitcher plants (Nepenthes) evolve to swallow their prey in less than half a second.  

There’s a new surprise at every corner of this winding glasshouse. Take in spiky cacti and succulents as you travel through the dry tropics and emerge into the dense, steamy zones where tropical orchids and bright bromeliads come alive.  

There’s plenty of beauty on display too. The celebrated giant waterlily Victoria amazonica floats in the wet tropical zone, where its spectacular white flowers open at sunset, filling the air with a strong perfume before they are pollinated and turn bright pink by the morning.  

Get swept up in the wonder of nature as you explore the largest and most diverse collection of living plants in the world – it is just one of the reasons we’re been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stunning landscapes, iconic buildings, and inspirational art galleries take you on a journey from our royal past to our global future.