11 March 2024

Best things to do at Kew this spring

Enjoy our seasonal highlights on your visit to Kew Gardens this spring.

By Ellen McHale , Katie Avis-Riordan , Grace Brewer and Ellie Wilson

Cherry blossom on branches in spring

Vivid blooming flowers, unfurling green leaves and the melodious sound of birdsong are all part of the beauty of spring. 

Get outdoors and enjoy this enchanting season at Kew.

From a stroll under drifting cherry blossoms to Easter family fun, here are the best things to do this spring.

Join Bluey on a family-friendly adventure 

The hit animated TV series Bluey is hitting Kew this Easter!

Join the lovable Blue Heeler puppy and her family for lots of outdoor springtime fun and interactive activities from 29 March to 14 April.

Play games inspired by the show, learn about the plants and wildlife native to Bluey's homeland of Australia, and don't miss your chance to meet Bluey herself.

Book tickets to Kew

The bluey family on an illustrated background
Bluey © Ludo Studio Pty Ltd 2018

Awaken your senses with Sounds of Blossom

We've collaborated with the Royal College of Music to bring you a brand new blossom festival that invites you to celebrate spring with all your senses.

As you walk beneath our delicate blossom trees, you'll hear music specially composed by RCM music students inspired by the beauty of spring.

Take a deep breath and feel your senses come alive as you reconnect with nature.

At weekends you'll find live music, special yoga and Tai Chi sessions under the blossoms, and talks from Kew horticulturists and scientists. 

Drifting cherry blossom petals
Sounds of Blossom © RBG Kew
Daffodils in spring at Kew
Daffodils (Narcissus) in spring at Kew © RBG Kew
A cluster of pink magnolia flowers opened on a tree in front of a blue sky
Campbell's magnolia (Magnolia campbellii), Andrew McRobb © RBG Kew

Our magnolias and Japanese cherry blossoms are at their blooming best. Start in the Magnolia Glade before heading to Cherry Walk behind the Palm House and then through to Asano Avenue (near the Temperate House) to see many varieties, including the delicate pink blossoms of Prunus 'Hokusai'

Keep an eye on our Instagram to see when the cherry trees are in bloom. 

Blossom at the Temperate House
Blossom at the Temperate House © RBG Kew

Wander through bluebell woods

The best time to see the bluebells is from mid-April to May. They spend most of the year as bulbs underground and emerge to flower from April onwards.

As many as 20 sweetly-scented, bell-shaped flowers can appear on a single flower stalk, which droops or nods to one side. 

Bees, hoverflies, butterflies and other insects love them and their flowers provide an important early source of nectar. 

For the best display, head to our Natural Area and see what wildlife you can spot whilst you're there.

Or why not head further afield and visit our wild botanic garden in the heart of Sussex which boasts magnificent bluebell displays.

Grab a tasty bite to eat

With spring comes more sunshine, warmer days and the chance to enjoy al fresco dining. 

Take your pick from our delicious seasonal takeaway food and drink from our cafés and restaurants.

You're also welcome to bring your own picnic to enjoy in our stunning natural setting.

We've even rounded up the best picnic spots in the Gardens for you to seek out, from peaceful woodland to a pretty garden scented with aromatic herbs.

A family having a picnic outdoors
A family picnic © RBG Kew

Learn something new

Spring is the perfect time to wake up your brain with new skills.

Got green fingers? Learn how to design your garden and choose the right plant for the right place, or become the organic gardener of your dreams.

Arty types can try their hands at modern calligraphy or boost their skills at botanical art with intermediate-level workshops in botanical sketchbook study and flower drawing and dissection.

See what's on

 

Pink blossom of Japanese cherry cultivar, Prunus 'Matsumae Hanagurama'

Visit Kew

There is so much to see and do on a visit to Kew Gardens.

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