Kew Gardens access guide - getting around

Kew Gardens is largely accessible to wheelchair users. We also have a number of wheelchairs and a fleet of eight mobility scooters, available for visitors to use.

Useful maps

Download our visitor information map (pdf)
Download our getting to Kew Gardens map (pdf), showing gate locations

Wheelchairs

Most of the buildings in the Gardens have level or ramped ground floor access for wheelchairs. The Gardens themselves are largely flat with tarmac paths in most places.

Wheelchairs are available free at all the gates on a first come, first served basis. There is usually a good supply available and some visitors like to bring their own cushion. You can leave the chair at any gate when you leave the Gardens.

There is no wheelchair access to the following parts of the Gardens:

Sackler Crossing at Kew Gardens

Marine display in the Palm House basement
Upper galleries in the Palm House and Temperate House
Upper levels of the Princess of Wales Conservatory

Mobility scooters

We have eight mobility scooters which are free to use, but must be booked in advance by calling the Operations team on:

0208 332 5121

Scooters can be collected at Brentford Gate, Victoria Gate or Main Gate and, subject to availability, you may be able to specify which gate you would prefer when you book the scooter and to complete a simple form. We will give you simple instructions on using the scooter. You will be asked to present some form of ID with your photograph or home address when you collect the scooter. Please note that the scooters are provided to help visitors with limited mobility who find it difficult to walk long distances, but are otherwise able and have reasonable eyesight, reactions and handgrasp.

You are also welcome to bring your own scooter if it is a pavement-use mobility scooter limited to 4mph.

Please note

All mobility scooters used in Kew Gardens are for outdoor use only and cannot be taken into the glasshouses, galleries, Kew Palace, the Xstrata Treetop Walkway, the restaurants and cafes or the WCs. Scooters must be left outside in a safe position.
No scooter may be used on the grass.