During the peak months of April to September, Kew Gardens opens at 10 am and closes at 7 pm.
From May to August, the gardens remain open for an hour extra, till 8 pm, on weekends and holidays.
During the lean months of October to March, London’s favorite gardens continue to open at 10 am, but its closing time varies.
The last admission to Kew Gardens is one hour before the closing time.
Kew Gardens Hours – At a Glance
| Month | Timing |
|---|---|
| 1 February to 29 February | 10 am to 5 pm |
| 1 March to 31 March | 10 am to 6 pm |
| 1 April to 30 April | 10 am to 7 pm |
| 1 May to 31 August | 10 am to 7 pm (Weekdays)10 am to 8 pm (Weekends and Bank Holidays) |
| 1 September to 30 September | 10 am to 7 pm |
| 1 October to 26 October | 10 am to 6 pm |
| 27 October to 11 November | 10 am to 4 pm |
| 12 November to 5 January (2025) | 10 am to 3.15 pm |
Note: Kew Gardens remains closed on Christmas Eve (24 December) and Christmas Day (25 December).
There are many things to see inside Kew Gardens, and the hours of operation for some of these attractions differ from the Kew Gardens hours.
To help you plan your visit, we have listed all important information like Kew Gardens hours, the best time to visit, how long it takes to tour Kew Gardens and more in the article below.
Kew Gardens Timings for Attractions – At a Glance
| Attractions | Hours | Last entry |
|---|---|---|
| Treetop Walkway | 10 am to 3 pm | 2:45 pm |
| Million Seed Bank | 10 am to 4:30 pm | 4 pm |
| Marianne North Gallery | 10 am to 5 pm | 4:30 pm |
| Shirley Sherwood Gallery | 10 am to 3 pm | n/a |
| Children’s Garden | 10 am to 3 pm | n/a |
Please Note: Some historic Royal Palaces like Great Pagoda, Kew Palace, Royal Kitchens, and Queen Charlotte’s Cottage will be closed until spring 2024.
If you plan to visit Kew Gardens after May, it’s advisable to check the schedule beforehand on the official website.
How Long Does it Take to Visit Kew Gardens
There are many attractions to explore within Kew Gardens.
Most tourists and families spend around three hours strolling around or exploring the various attractions at Kew Gardens.
The gardens are about one mile across and it takes about 40 minutes to go around.
If you plan to visit one of the many restaurants inside Kew Gardens, you may need an hour more.
We recommend a full day of fun for nature lovers who want to explore all areas of the Gardens.
Best Day to Visit Kew Gardens
Early mornings during weekdays are ideal for visiting Kew Gardens because they are generally quieter than weekends.
School and public holidays bring a lot of crowds to the gardens. It is best to avoid Thursdays as school excursions to the Kew Gardens usually happen on that day.
For a peaceful visit, come early on a weekday morning to enjoy the gardens without the crowds.
Furthermore, you may find it easier to obtain tickets and have more space to appreciate the grandeur of Kew Gardens without the hustle and bustle of weekend crowds.
Best Month to Visit Kew Gardens
Summer months from June to August are the best months to visit Kew Gardens.
The gardens are in full bloom in the summer and the extra sunlight hours allow you to spend more time exploring the gardens.
Kew Gardens hold special events and activities frequently during this period.
However, it can also be the busiest and hottest time of the year.
Spring (April and May) is a popular season to visit, as the gardens begin to bloom with colorful flowers such as rhododendrons, magnolias, bluebells, and cherry blossoms.
In autumn (September to October), crowds diminish, yet the gardens retain their beauty as tree leaves change color, providing an interesting spectrum to your Kew Gardens visit.
Winter at Kew Gardens from November to March provides a distinct and serene experience, with fewer visitors and interesting scenery.
Please beware of the cold weather with rain and snow during this period.
Our recommendation–to see blooming flowers and enjoy brilliant weather, a visit between May to August is perfect!
Insider Tip: Check the weather forecast a day before your visit, and be prepared with umbrellas or raincoats.
Best Time to Visit Kew Gardens
When visiting Kew Gardens, carefully selecting the time of day can significantly enhance the overall experience.
Early morning offers a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for enjoying the garden’s beauty before the crowds arrive.
It’s also the perfect time for birdwatching and provides great lighting for photographers. Plus, you’ll find parking easily.
However, late afternoons offer a special ambiance as the day gracefully transitions into dusk.
You can enjoy a cozy walk in the lush greenery and participate in special events or just relax under the sun.
In conclusion, no matter when you go, every moment at Kew Gardens’ vibrant flora and historic charm ensures your visit is memorable and worthwhile.
FAQs about Kew Gardens Opening Hours
1 . What is the best time of year to go to Kew Gardens?
The best time of year to see Kew Gardens is during the summer months, which are from June to August. Kew Gardens London hours may vary depending on the season and day of the week, so it’s recommended to check the schedule in advance.
2 . How long does it take to see Kew Gardens?
It takes around three hours to see Kew Gardens. However, if you enjoy the outdoors and nature, you can plan to spend longer hours in the gardens.
3 . Are there any special hours for members?
Starting from 1 May, Kew Gardens members will get exclusive access from 8 am, offering a serene morning ambiance free from bustling crowds. These member privileges will be available until 30 September. Members please remember that advance slot booking is essential to ensure smooth entry.
4 . Are the gardens open every day?
Yes, Kew Gardens is open year-round except for Christmas Eve (24 December) and Christmas Day (25 December).
5 . What are the opening hours for the Treetop Walkway?
The Treetop Walkway at Kew Gardens is open daily from 10 am to 3 pm, with the last entry at 2.45 pm. However, please note that opening hours may vary due to factors such as seasonal changes, maintenance, or special events. You can check the schedule on the official website before your visit.
6 . How early should I reach the Kew Gardens?
The Gardens open at 10 am daily. For the best experience, try to visit Kew Gardens when it opens. Getting there early gives you plenty of time to see all the main attractions before the crowds enter and enjoy the vibrant flora for as long as you want.
7 . Is it better to visit the Kew Gardens during the day or the evening?
It’s advisable to plan your visit to Kew Gardens during the daytime. This ensures a wonderful experience as you can witness the botanical collection and its many attractions with beautiful sunny weather during spring and summer (April to September). It’s best to avoid visiting in the evening during autumn or winters as it could get very cold.
8 . What are the Kew Gardens Palace opening hours?
The opening hours for Kew Gardens Palace are from 11 am to 4 pm. However, please note that it will remain closed until spring 2024. Therefore, it is advisable to check their official website before planning your visit.
Featured Image: KEW.org
