The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew was awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in July 2003 due to its work on history and development of garden landscapes and its role in science and plant research.
Size of the GardensThe Gardens are 300 acres. To get an idea of walking times between landmarks see the strolling map. If you are visiting with small children be prepared to double these times.
I had avoided visiting Kew as I had imagined it was so vast I would not be able to see all I wanted to in one trip. I was amazed when I arrived and looked at the map and then looked at the landmarks and could see how close everything really is.
How Much Time?It is suggested that most people take around three hours to explore the whole of the length of the Gardens (It is about one mile across and takes about 40 minutes to walk across.) I actually stayed about 7 hours and I still didn't see everything but I guess we all have different priorities when visiting. I would suggest, if you have time, spend the whole day at Kew. Don't rush it; stay longer, have lunch, and enjoy your visit.
Overhead NoiseKew Gardens is on the Heathrow Airport flight path. Noisy planes go overhead every few minutes. Initially this is distracting but, honestly, you soon get used to it and stop noticing them.
Photographer's ParadiseKew is a photographer's paradise. You will see lots of people with cameras ranging from the cheap disposables to amazing long lenses on professional equipment. As with any photo opportunity make sure you have all you need for a day away from the shops:
- extra batteries
- film (if not digital)
- empty memory card or lots of space (for digital)
