Wakehurst

About

Have a day out like no other at Wakehurst, Kew's wild botanic garden. With over 500 acres to discover, Wakehurst is home to a dramatic and diverse landscape, ranging from ornamental gardens to temperate woodlands, wildflower meadows and the Loder Valley nature reserve. Spot the wildlife and year-round colour in our valleys, featuring rare plant collections from around the world. Beautiful whatever the season, explore the wilder corners of the landscape to discover some of the quietest, most beautiful spots. 

Don’t miss Kew’s world-famous Millennium Seed Bank, the most biodiverse place on Earth, now celebrating 25 years. Visit the largest wild seed conservation project in the world, see Kew scientists at work and learn about the essential conservation of plants and fungi. Step into the shoes of a seed scientist and try banking your own seed with our new Bank a Seed installation.

The Elizabethan Mansion is now open with newly restored exhibitions spaces to explore, including the Billiard Room, where immersive storytelling uncovers the layers of Wakehurst’s history, and the Chapel, which traces the origins of the Millennium Seed Bank and the transformation of Wakehurst into a ‘living laboratory’. Visitors can step into the Library, beautifully reimagined as a peaceful retreat where visitors can pause and soak in the Mansion’s unique atmosphere. 

There’s plenty to do for all the family, whether it’s learning about the impressive botanic collection, relaxing with a coffee, or letting children run wild in natural play spaces such as Tree Trunk Trek and Wild Wood. Join us in the school holidays for fun, outdoor trails where kids can earn a new Nature Heroes badge each time! 

We are also welcoming your canine companions along our dog-walking route, so you can all enjoy a dog walk with a difference!