Looking forward to visiting Kew Gardens while we are in London for 11 days in mid-June. Hoping this is a really good time of year to visit - any info or suggestions for best days of the week and times to visit, getting there, hints for getting the most out of a one-day excursion, etc. much appreciated.

It is a very easy place to visit - take the District line tube and then a short walk. Day of the week really doesn't matter though it will usually be more crowded on weekends. It is open an hour longer on weekends but I'd probably go on a weekday -- monday might be least crowded. I wouldn't worry about the crowds because it is so large it does absorb a lot of people. Just plan on walking . . . a lOT.

Before going - check the website - it will tell you what's on and what's in bloom.

There are at least 4 cafes/restaurants - maybe more.

We really enjoyed Kew Gardens. Even though we went in August, we did not find it crowded. There are quite a few benches throughout the gardens so you can sit and enjoy. We threw some picnic items in our day pack and enjoyed lunch under a huge tree on the lawn.

We visited Kew Gardens in June 10 years ago. It was simply exquisite when we were there. I don't remember that there were huge crowds at all but, as someone noted above, it is huge so can handle a lot of people.

We used a map obtained at the entrance, as I recall, and followed a couple of suggested routes. We were there from early morning to late afternoon and didn't see everything.

I really <i>really</i> rate Kew Gardens - but even I'm not convinced it warrants 11 days of your London stay. May be trim it to just one and that leaves an extra ten days for other London sights.

Dr D.

When I mentioned crowds - not to worry, the place never seems crowded because it is so spread out. The glass houses do get busy and it also depends if there are any special events/exhibitions.

Consider taking the boat one way.

Thanks for the replies (especially you, Dr. D) - it sounds as if it will be a great time of year to be there, and a perfect day excursion.

I think the suggestion of using the Tube and then walking to the entrance is a good one; nice neighborhood (especially when someone tells you the prices of those homes!)

We had a wonderful snack break at a place near the entrance which we also enjoyed. Also climbing up and walking along those structures which take you above the trees was fun for us.

Great, relaxing place regardless IMO.

If you enjoy walking, after Kew, you may like the walk along the river to the lovely Chiswick House and Gardens. I so love these gardens, but I was fascinated by the life of Joseph Paxton and his start there working for the Duke of Devonshire.
My trip report contains a small bit of info. about getting to Kew in the morning, then walking to Chiswick.
http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...ry-a-focus.cfm
Also, if you have the time, I have wonderful memories of the Chelsea Physic Garden and taking the tour (which is free with admission).
On my next trip to England, I plan to visit Syon House and Ham House, which are somewhat in the neighborhood of Kew. May be of interest to you. Ham House is a National Trust property, so you can get in free with a Royal Oak membership (if you’re American…?).
http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house/
http://www.syonpark.co.uk/index.asp
Jealous of your trip! Have fun!

If you have time, the Maids of Honour tea shop is just across the street from Kew. It's lovely and supposed to have been there since the time of Henry VIII.

For a lot more about Kew Gardens go to their web site: www.kew.org. There is also an app to download onto your smartphone and free wifi in the Gardens so you can log on and find out more about specific areas or plants. One piece of advice - if you plan to eat there, go to the Orangery or the Pavilion. These are more relaxed/peaceful than the two alternatives of the Victoria Plaza, right next to the Victoria Gate which you will use if you come from the Underground, and the family-oriented White Peaks cafe. My favourite things there have to be the tree walk, Queen Charlotte's Cottage and the Mediterranean garden. I could say a whole lot more as I work one day a week at Kew as a volunteer gardener and love it, but will leave you to discover its magic for yourself!