Summer is shaping up to be spectacular at Kew Gardens, offering a vibrant mix of nature, art, and culture for visitors of all ages. With a focus on the majesty of trees, exciting new gardens, family-friendly adventures, and events that blend fitness, music, and theatre, there’s something for everyone.
Here’s a look at what awaits you in London’s lush, 320-acre UNESCO World Heritage Garden this summer.
Discover the Beauty and Power of Trees
This season, Kew Gardens honours the vital role of trees with a programme of awe-inspiring events and installations. The spotlight is on Of the Oak, an extraordinary interactive art installation by Marshmallow Laser Feast, running until 28 September. Located on Syon Vista, it invites visitors to uncover the hidden life of the Gardens’ ancient Lucombe oak tree. Guided meditation trails and a digital field guide will take you deeper into the fascinating ecosystem that trees like this support.
At the Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art, the Power of Trees exhibition (until 14 September) celebrates the majesty of conifers. Highlights include Horizontal, Finnish artist Eija-Liisa Ahtila’s atmospheric portrait of boreal forests, alongside intricate botanical illustrations from the Bedgebury National Pinetum Florilegium Society to mark Bedgebury’s centenary.
Families can join the adventure from 26 July with Oaklore, an imaginative new experience by Wild Rumpus. Young visitors can become “Oaktivists” on an interactive, performance-led quest to discover the wonders of Kew’s arboretum and the importance of protecting trees for future generations.
For those keen to explore even further, favourites such as the Treetop Walkway, Badger Sett, Log Trail, and the Remarkable Trees trail offer a chance to connect with Kew’s remarkable 11,000-strong tree collection.
Exciting New Gardens and Summer Blooms
Two exciting horticultural highlights await at Kew this summer. Opening in July, the Carbon Garden showcases how plants and fungi play crucial roles in tackling climate change. Featuring a dry garden, perennial planting zones, a rain garden, and a natural-material pavilion, this innovative space highlights the groundbreaking research of Kew’s scientists and horticulturists.
Meanwhile, the newly blossomed Wild Rose Garden offers a stunning display of over 70 wild rose varieties, celebrating the evolution of this cherished flower. From its humble roots to its iconic status, this fragrant garden tells a rich story of botanical history.
Elsewhere, the classic Rose Garden invites visitors to enjoy a midsummer stroll, while Kew’s Great Broad Walk Borders burst with colourful plants. The Natural Area is alive with wildflower meadows, shady arboretum spaces, and an abundance of wildlife, providing ample opportunities to unwind in nature.
Family-Friendly Fun and Fitness
On 6 July, the Joe Wicks Festival returns with a packed day of activities spanning fitness, mindfulness, and creative workshops. The event is divided into zones, with Joe Wicks himself leading fitness sessions in ReEnergise, while ReConnect offers inspiring talks, and ReTreat features meditation workshops, massages, and ice baths. At RePlay, families can enjoy crafts, play, and storytime sessions.
Kew’s Wellbeing in Nature series continues throughout summer, offering tai chi, Pilates, yoga, sound baths, and forest bathing in the gardens’ serene environment. Don’t miss Summer Cycle on 7 August, a rare opportunity to explore Kew by bike.
Culture under the Stars
Music and theatre take centre stage this season with two brilliant programmes. Kew the Music returns from 8–13 July, featuring sunset picnic concerts headlined by Craig David, The Human League, Alison Moyet, and more in the stunning surroundings of the Gardens.
From 18 July, Theatre on Kew fills the air with stories as the Australian Shakespeare Company presents family favourites The Dream Fairies and Alice in Wonderland by day, and Macbeth under the stars on select nights.
For film lovers, Kew the Movies (20–22 June) invites you to enjoy open-air screenings of beloved films like Moana 2 and Bridget Jones’s Diary. Pack a blanket and a picnic for an unforgettable evening of cinematic magic.
Inclusive and Affordable Adventures
Kew Gardens aims to make these enriching experiences accessible. Tickets begin at just £1 for those on Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or other eligible benefits. Plus, they can bring up to four guests for £1 each. Young people aged 16–29 can enjoy a £10 ticket option, and families and groups benefit from excellent rates.
Kew Gardens is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 7pm, and until 8pm on weekends, with members enjoying exclusive early access from 8am. Advanced booking is recommended for the best value.
Visit Today
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, cultural explorer, or family in search of a joyful day out, Kew Gardens offers a summer brimming with discovery, inspiration, and fun. Join the celebration of trees, visit dazzling new gardens, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of music, theatre, and family-friendly activities.
For tickets and information, visit kew.org. Make this summer one to remember at Kew Gardens.