Green and pleasant land
A large portion of Kew consists of expansive green fields encircled by the River Thames. Here, you'll discover a golf club, Old Deer Park, Kew Green, and, of course, Kew Gardens.
Kew is most famously recognized for its botanical gardens, which house the largest collection of living plants in the world. Established in 1840 and featuring more than 30,000 plant species, Kew Gardens was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003. The grounds also boast many fascinating sights, including a Chinese pagoda and a large-scale replica of a Japanese temple. There's also a vertiginous treetop walkway offering a completely different perspective of Kew.
Kew Green hosts many attractions throughout the year. In the summer, you can enjoy watching a local cricket club match or savor the horticultural show in August. There's a delightful old horse pond with reed beds in one corner of the green, attracting a variety of water birds that nest there.
Royal Mid-Surrey Golf Club is private and members-only, but you can play if invited by a member or request to play in advance. It features two 18-hole courses, both located in Old Deer Park.
Wining and dining in Kew
Kew offers a good selection of places to eat and drink. Taverns like The Greyhound and The Botanist provide beer, cheer, and traditional pub fare.
The cleverly named Q Verde is a family-run Italian restaurant situated between Kew Green and the Kew Gardens. It's known for its good food, well-chosen wines, and friendly, unobtrusive service, making it a favorite among Kew residents.
East meets West London at Rara, a Nepalese restaurant. The owners state that no preservatives or artificial flavors are used and minimal oil is employed. The aim is to create healthy, flavorful dishes inspired by Indian and Nepalese cuisine. The restaurant seems to have succeeded, as it is enjoyed by locals and visitors from across the river.
Shopping in and around Kew
Kew boasts a small but lively assortment of independent retailers offering products like organic health foods, freshly baked bread, bridal dresses, shoes, and music. Within a short walking distance from central Kew, you'll also find numerous well-known high street brands.