WHAT? Christmas at Kew 

WHERE?  Royal Botanic Gardens, Entrances at Victoria Gate, Brentford Gate and Elizabeth Gate, Kew, Richmond TW9 3AE

WHEN? Now until 7th January 2024, (advance booking only)

WHY GO? To be dazzled. It’s that time of year again, the magical moment when Kew gardens are transformed into a winter wonderland of kaleidoscopic lights after dark.

Whichever way you walk, there are lights fantastic, music, tasty treats and everything required to escape the outside world and welcome in Christmas. 

Yes, there are queues, but they are worth the wait. No botanical art installations are quite like those at Kew where the landscape is illuminated and trees, foliage and the magnificent conservatories are all aglow.  There are illuminated flowers, a magnificent light tunnel, cascading candles and lanterns, and that’s just for starters. 

The spectacular display of dancing lights across the central lake provides a glorious finale to a Christmassy play-list of seasonal classics. 

This year, Kew’s buzz-worthy message, One Small Thing encourages visitors to engage with their environment and make small changes for big results and it’s already working. 

Since Kew’s first festive light trail in 2013, the Christmas crew have delivered; last year’s trail used 50% less power than in 2021. Kew is ramping up on sustainability while revving up on drama!

IN THE KNOW A membership to Kew is the perfect gift for green-fingered fans. With several membership options on offer, from as little as £32 (young person) to the full-on family packages, it’s a gift that helps towards building a greener future.

And a bonus, members get first pick when booking events like Christmas at Kew.