Walks and tours - Introduction to the Gardens

Tue 01 January - Tue 31 December 2013

Gain an insight into Kew’s history, plants, science and seasonal highlights. Every day of the year except 24 and 25 December.

Wisteria covered pergola with Ginkgo biloba in the background (photo taken in late spring).

Event details

Dates: Daily throughout the year except 24 and 25 December
Time: 11am only, duration 1 hour. Please register with the guide 15 minutes before tour departs. You can find them at the Guides' Desk in Victoria Plaza.
Price: FREE on entry to the Gardens
Tours start and finish at: Guides' Desk, Victoria Plaza

About the tour

On this tour Kew Guides will introduce you to the history and role of Kew, the scientific work that goes on behind the scenes, seasonal highlights and at least one great glasshouse. If the weather is very inclement, tours may be kept withing the glasshouses for your comfort.

Introducing Kew Guides

Kew has 65 enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteer guides; a guided tour is bound to be a highlight of your day. These tours last approximately one hour and are for individual/casual visitors to the Gardens. There is a limit of 15 people per tour and places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Please register with the guide from 15 minutes before the start of the tour.

Kew guides also offer special themed tours which cost £5 per person. These are of longer duration and often go behind-the-scenes to areas of the Gardens not normally open to the general public.

Groups of 6 or more will need to pre-book a bespoke tour which also requires payment. See our Pre-Booked Guided Tours page for more details and the booking form.

Walking tours are also available to groups and individuals with special needs through our Discovery Programme.