Discover a Winter Wonderland at Kew Gardens

Picture by RBG Kew

 

I love snow, and the way it transforms the landscape – so there’s no better way in which to enjoy it than having a walk round Kew Gardens.

The Pagoda in winter. Picture by RBG Kew

The gardens are set over 300 acres, so there’s plenty to see – and there are lots of activities on offer over the festive period.

There’s a free Winter Wonderland walk, which takes you on a trail around the staff’s favourite areas at this time of year, and is on offer from Dec 4 – Jan 3.

You can also get into the festive spirit by taking a cosy horse and carriage ride around the park.  Get on at the Orangery and be taken on a trip down Broad Walk.  The trips run from 10:30am-3:30pm and are available Dec 11 – Jan 3.  Adults £3, children £2.

If you get cold, you can head to the hot houses – including the picturesque Palm House and Waterlily House.

The Palm House at Christmas. Picture by RBG Kew.

Kew opens at 9:30am every day apart from December 24/25, and is £13.50 for adults and £11.50 for concessions.  Children go free.   Tickets are available online or on the day.

Nearest Tube: Kew Gardens

Winter Festival

Still looking for Christmas gifts? Looking for something interesting to do midweek?

Try the Portobello Road Winter Festival.  Offering free film screenings, dance workshops, free tastings, food markets and a Santa’s Grotto, the market – along Portobello Road and Golborne Road offers a host of entertainment.

In addition, Martin Miller’s Gin are offering free cocktails throughout the festival between 6-7pm – woohoo!

The market takes place from 4-9pm every Wednesday until December 16.  Check out the website for more details and download the flyer to take advantage of various discounts and offers.

This week’s films are The Wizard of Oz and Paris Is Burning.

Nearest Tube: Ladbroke Grove, Notting Hill Gate or Westbourne Park