Kew gardens london palmhouse

Explore the Palm House at Kew Gardens, a historic Victorian glasshouse in London housing a diverse collection of palms and tropical plants.

About this subject

The Palm House at Kew Gardens in London is one of the world's most important surviving Victorian glasshouses. Designed by architect Decimus Burton and iron founder Richard Turner, it was built between 1844 and 1848. Its iron and glass structure, with over 16,000 panes of glass, enabled the cultivation of tropical plants for the first time in Britain. The greenhouse measures 110 meters in length and 20 meters in height, making it the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world.

The interior of the Palm House houses a collection of palms, cycads, and other tropical plants, many of which are endangered. The environment is maintained with controlled temperature and humidity, simulating a tropical climate. Originally heated by coal furnaces, it now uses a gas turbine system that also generates part of the garden's energy.

Kew Gardens, founded in 1759, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003. The Palm House is one of its most photographed icons, appearing in films such as "Pretty Woman" and "The Boy Next Door". Furthermore, the glasshouse played a key role in British imperial botany, serving as a center for acclimatizing exotic plants brought from the colonies.

Fun fact: The Palm House was an engineering milestone, with its innovative design inspiring other glasshouses worldwide, such as the Sydney Royal Botanic Garden. Today, visitors can explore not only the plants but also a suspended walkway offering aerial views of the palm canopies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit the Palm House at Kew Gardens?

The Palm House is open year-round, but spring and summer (March to September) offer milder weather to also explore the outdoor gardens. The interior is always tropical regardless of season.

What kind of plants can I find inside the Palm House?

The collection includes palms, cycads, banana plants, orchids, and other tropical plants from regions such as South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Some species are rare or endangered.

Is the Palm House wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Palm House has ramps and an elevator for ground-level access. The suspended walkway, however, is only accessible via stairs.