Kew Highlights, Winter 2008/09

Must sees

The Grass Garden

There are currently 550 species of grasses in the Grass Garden, a number that is ever increasing. The feathery plumes of pampas grass and Miscanthus shimmer in the wind, and in the winter the perennial grasses look particularly spectacular, adorned with their seed heads.

Snowdrops

The snowdrop is synonymous with spring for many people and the first flowers can appear as early as January. There are around 19 species worldwide and many can be seen in Kew’s Rock Garden, but you should also look out for swathes of these delicate blooms near the Temple of Aeolus and in the Conservation Area.

Witch hazel

One of the earliest flowering plants at Kew is the witch hazel, which makes its first appearance around King William’s Temple). Look out for the bright spidery red and yellow flowers in January here, and also in the Winter Garden.

Holly Walk

This pathway was originally laid out in 1874, and used to be called Love Lane at a time when it was the main public right of way from Kew to Richmond. Most of the hollies planted along here are from the original plants, and there are 56 species and hybrids making this the largest collection of mature hollies in cultivation in the world.

Pinetum

Dotted around the Gardens are many great evergreen trees, including the eucalyptus specimens by the Aquatic Garden. However the largest group can be found in the Pinetum, with a huge variety of conifers, including giant redwoods, cedars and the distinctive monkey puzzle tree.

For the children

Climbers and Creepers

Take your children to our unique interactive indoor play area. Here they can wiggle through tunnels like a field mouse and slide down our giant pitcher plant.

Kid’s Guide

If you have children, see the Kids' Kew guide, this guide features exciting places to visit and things to do.  It includes stickers, a map, activities, fascinating facts and bad jokes!

Badger Sett

Discover what a Badger's home is really like.  Walk through the meter high underground tunnels and discover food stores and sleeping chambers.

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