Christmas at Kew – Kew Gardens
Christmas at Kew is in its tenth year this year and the annual after-dark festivities just get bigger and better each year. Upon entering Kew Gardens you are transported into a festive world of twinkling lights, new light installations and tasty festive delights.
Enjoy the annual after-dark festivities with family and friends, as you discover a glittering tunnel of bells, dancing waterside reflections, and trees drenched in jewel-like colour on your way to the panoramic Palm House light display where the light projections will amaze you and fill you will seasonal cheer.
Journey through the mesmerising flickering flames in the Fire Garden, spot larger-than-life illuminations and say hello to Santa Claus along the way.
It is a 2.6km long trail and takes an estimated 75 minutes to walk. Last year we found it to be well pathed and suitable for pushchairs, however it can get wet and a bit slippy on a wet evening. It is quite a long trail so if in doubt about whether you need to bring a pushchair or not for young kids, I would recommend you bring one!! It is also fully exposed to the elements so dress appropriately and bring a brolly if rain is forecast.
There is always a limited capacity, so even when sold out (which is probably will be) the Gardens don’t feel crowded. Even at the main event which is the incredible water display, we easily found a place to stand to get a great view.
Food and Drink
You can pre book a meal at the botanical restaurant (which overlooks the water display) or eat at one of the many delicious independent street food vendors. Food stalls include hot dogs, sweet treats and hot chocolate amoungst much more.
Fairground
Our children’s favourite part was definitely the Fairground! Tokens are available for £3.50 each on the night or pre-book to collect on the night and get 6 tokens for £18.
These tokens do not include entry to the Christmas at Kew event — a separate ticket is required. Fairground tokens are only available for guests who already have Christmas at Kew tickets. There’s a helter skelter (beware, its fast!), vintage carousel, Swing Boats and more.
When?
16 November 2022 – 8 January 2023
4pm to 10pm
Where?
Kew Gardens,
Kew,
Richmond,
London,
TW9 3AE
You’ll need to choose which gate you enter through (Kew Gardens is big!)
(Be sure to select the right entry gate, date and time slot as they aren’t able to offer exchanges or refunds for unwanted tickets or tickets bought in error)
- Elizabeth Gate
- This entrance is best for those travelling by National Rail.
- Victoria Gate: Main entrance
- This is the main entrance and the best for those travelling by public transport.
- Brentford Gate: Includes reserved parking
- This ticket can include pre-paid parking at Kew’s Ferry Lane car park. Parking is £10 and can be added on when buying your ticket in advance.
- Please note: There is about a 10-minute walk to the trail entrance.
How much are tickets?
ADULT Tickets Peak £28.00 Off Peak £21.50
CHILD (4-15) Peak £18.00 Off Peak £14.00
CHILD (UNDER 4 ) £0.00
FAMILY Tickets: Peak £82.00 Off Peak £65.00 2 Adults + 2 Children 4-15 (please select additional tickets for children under 4).
Where to book?
Tickets for Elizabeth Gate – click here.
Tickets for Victoria Gate: Main entrance – click here.
Tickets for Brentford Gate – with car parking – click here.
When you book you get to select a time of your choice. I would suggest giving yourself plenty of time to get round, with stopping factored in. Plus extra if you will be spending time at the funfair or food stalls.
Christmas at Kew will sell out, so if you want to go don’t put it off.
Summary
Christmas at Kew is really spectacular and is a really magical winter trail, that never fails to be a magical experience. Click here to read about 7 Fantastic Festive Events in Surrey and the South East 2022.
