Nesfield’s planting plans for the Broad Walk and surrounding areas, 1845. Notice how pairs of the stately deodar cedar (Cedrus deodara) flanked the main stretch from the Orangery up to the Pond. Between these trees were large kidney-shaped flower beds (which still exist) and smaller beds positioned close to the gravelled surface of the Walk. Click on image to view it at a larger size. The planting plans for Decimus Burton’s grand Broad Walk were designed by the famous English landscape architect William Andrews Nesfield in the 1840s. Nesfield’s planting plans for Kew are amongst the best-known features of his work. As very little survives elsewhere in the UK, the remnants at Kew are of historical importance. Over time, there have been many changes to this area and much of the essence of Nesfield’s plans has disappeared. The Gardens’ staff have been developing a replanting scheme for the Broad Walk that will do justice to Nesfield’s original plans, and re-captures the grandeur of the two lines of cedars. Sixteen semi-mature Atlantic cedars (Cedrus atlantica) will be planted in place of Nesfield’s deodars. These look similar to deodar cedars, but will grow better in London’s climate. The rectangular flower beds will eventually be replaced by small flower borders or oak containers planted for the summer. If you would like to help us in restoring this key Victorian landscape feature, please see our Broad Walk Restoration Appeal. The large rectangular flower beds and immediately surrounding lawns have been ploughed and levelled. We have used this opportunity to create a stunning 'wheatfield and wild flowers' display for summer 2000.
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