Kew Gardens, London: Location, Directions, Transportaion and more
Explore this page for all the information you need on getting to The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – address, public transportation, budget friendly options and more!
The Famous Botanical Garden, Kew is located in Kew, Richmond, London.
Kew Gardens, London Location
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is situated in southwest London, nestled along the south bank of the River Thames, providing a tranquil retreat from the bustling city.
Address:
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Richmond, London
TW9 3AE, United Kingdom
Operating Hours:
Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Weekends and Public Holidays: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Last Admission: One hour before closing.
How to Get to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew?
Public Transportation
By Tube:
Take the District Line to Kew Gardens Station. The gardens are just a 5-minute walk from the station, making it a convenient option for visitors. Exit the station and follow the signs to the Victoria Gate entrance.
By Train:
Board the London Overground to Kew Bridge Station. From here, it’s a 10-minute walk across Kew Bridge to reach the Elizabeth Gate entrance. This route offers scenic views of the Thames as you approach the gardens.
By Bus:
Bus 65: Stops near the Lion Gate and Victoria Gate entrances.
Buses 237, 267, and 391: These routes also have stops close to the gardens, providing flexible public transport options.
Scenic Transportation
By Car:
Drive via the A205 (South Circular) or the M4, and follow signs to Kew Gardens. Limited parking is available at Brentford Gate, with a fee for all-day parking. It’s advisable to use public transportation to avoid parking issues, especially during peak times.
By Bicycle:
Cycle along the Thames Path or other dedicated cycling routes. Bicycle racks are available at all entrances, making it an eco-friendly and healthy way to travel to Kew Gardens.
By Riverboat:
Take a Thames Riverboat from Westminster to Kew Pier. The boat ride takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and from Kew Pier, it’s a 10-minute walk to the garden entrances. This option offers a leisurely and scenic journey along the River Thames.
Entry and Exit Points at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Victoria Gate:
Location: Closest to Kew Gardens Station.
Facilities: Includes the Victoria Plaza Café, shop, lockers, and restrooms.
Details: This is the main entrance and is ideal for first-time visitors due to its proximity to major attractions like the Palm House and the Princess of Wales Conservatory.
Elizabeth Gate:
Location: Near Kew Bridge Station.
Facilities: Convenient for visitors arriving by riverboat from Westminster.
Details: Provides access to attractions such as the Agius Evolution Garden, The Hive, and the Princess of Wales Conservatory.
Brentford Gate:
Location: Adjacent to the Brentford Gate car park.
Facilities: Close to the Children’s Garden, White Peaks Café, and Kew Palace.
Details: Recommended for visitors traveling by car, with ample parking and easy access to family-friendly areas.
Lion Gate:
Location: Near Richmond Station.
Facilities: Lesser-known gate, offering a quieter entrance.
Details: Ideal for accessing the southern parts of the gardens, including the Great Pagoda and the Pavilion Restaurant.
Getting to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew by Car
Average Travel Time:
Travel time to Kew Gardens by car is approximately 45 minutes from central London, depending on traffic conditions.
Directions:
From central London, take the A4 westbound, then merge onto the M4. Exit at Junction 2, following signs for the A205 (South Circular) towards Kew. Follow Kew Road (A307) and signs directing you to Kew Gardens.
Parking Facilities:
Brentford Gate Car Park: Located closest to the gardens, it charges £9 for a full day’s parking. The car park is a short walk from the Brentford Gate entrance.
Kew Green Parking: Free street parking is available around Kew Green, but spaces are limited and fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
National Archives Car Park: An alternative option with a £7.50 daily charge, situated about a 15-minute walk from the Victoria Gate entrance.
Best Ways to Get to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
- Scenic Route
- Fastest Route
- Convenient Route
- Budget-Friendly Route
Scenic Route
Scenic Route to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
By Riverboat:
Route: Thames Riverboat service from Westminster to Kew Pier.
Details: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the River Thames, offering picturesque views of London landmarks before arriving at Kew Pier. It’s a 10-minute walk from the pier to the garden entrances, making it a delightful and relaxing journey.
Fastest Route
Fastest Route to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
By Tube:
Route: District Line to Kew Gardens Station.
Details: The tube provides the quickest way to reach Kew Gardens from central London, with an approximate travel time of 30 minutes. A 5-minute walk from Kew Gardens Station brings you to the Victoria Gate entrance.
Convenient Route
Convenient Route to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
By Train:
Route: London Overground to Kew Bridge Station.
Details: Ideal for those traveling from west London or the suburbs, the Overground service to Kew Bridge Station offers a quick and direct route. It’s a 10-minute walk from the station to the Elizabeth Gate entrance.
Budget-Friendly Route
Budget-Friendly Route to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew:
By Bus:
Routes: Buses 65, 237, 267, and 391 serve Kew Gardens.
Details: Taking the bus is an economical option, with stops close to multiple garden entrances, including Victoria Gate and Elizabeth Gate. It’s ideal for visitors looking to save on travel costs while enjoying convenient access.