Our next stop along the Thames is Kew, a leafy, village‑like corner of London best known for its world‑famous gardens — but the surrounding area has a character all of its own. Set on a gentle curve of the river, Kew blends royal history, tranquil green spaces, and a relaxed neighbourhood feel, making it an inviting pause for anyone walking the Thames Path.
The World‑Renowned Kew Gardens
You can’t talk about Kew without mentioning its greatest landmark: the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Established in 1759, the gardens now span over 120 hectares and house the world’s largest and most diverse botanical and mycological collections.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kew is celebrated for its iconic glasshouses, such as the Victorian Palm House and the vast Temperate House, as well as remarkable plant collections totalling more than 50,000 species. But beyond the gates, the surrounding area tells its own story.
A Royal Landscape Shaped Through Centuries
Kew’s roots stretch deep into royal history. Its development was intertwined with nearby Richmond Palace, once a major royal residence dating back to the 13th century.
By the 16th century, courtiers began establishing grand homes in Kew, laying the foundations for the elegant streets and green commons that still define the area today. The gardens themselves emerged from this royal influence — from the exotic gardens created by Augusta, Dowager Princess of Wales in 1759 to the architectural additions by Sir William Chambers, including the still‑standing Great Pagoda of 1762.
Kew Green and the Village Feel
Just outside the gardens lies Kew Green, a broad stretch of grass framed by Georgian houses and leafy paths — the perfect setting for a relaxed wander or a picnic under the trees. Walk a little further and you’ll find Kew Village, a delightful cluster of independent shops, cafés, and a truly local atmosphere. The area maintains its village identity in a way many London neighbourhoods claim, but few achieve.
Along the Thames Path
The Thames Path runs close by, connecting Kew to Richmond, Mortlake, and Chiswick in both directions. This section offers peaceful river views, historic homes, and plenty of spots to pause and watch life drift by on the water. Passing near Kew Bridge and following the curve of the river, walkers can enjoy a blend of natural beauty and heritage, with glimpses of the gardens’ treetops peeking over old brick walls.
Local Landmarks Beyond the Gardens
A short stroll from Kew Green brings you to The National Archives, a striking modern complex housing some of the UK’s most important historical documents — a curious contrast to the botanical and royal narratives surrounding it. Together with the period architecture, riverside pubs, and calm residential streets, the wider Kew area offers plenty of charm even before you step foot inside the famous gardens.
Why Kew Is Worth a Stop
Whether you’re following the Thames Path, exploring royal history, or simply seeking some peace and greenery, Kew offers a rich blend of heritage and natural beauty. It’s a place where centuries of botanical discovery meet riverside tranquillity — a neighbourhood that feels both worldly and wonderfully slow‑paced.
Kew is far more than a gateway to Britain’s most celebrated gardens. It’s a destination in its own right, full of stories, scenery, and that unmistakable village charm.
