The seed for Kew Gardens was sown in the exotic garden at Kew Park created by Lord Capel of Tewkesbury. George III enriched the gardens and later purchased Kew Palace, in 1781 as a nursery for the royal children. As well as 300 acres of gardens, Kew's landmark buildings include the Palm House, built by architect Decimus Burton and iron-maker Richard Turner between 1844 and 1848 and which was the first large-scale structural use of wrought iron. This was followed later in the 19th century by The Temperate house, which at twice the Palm House's size, is the largest Victorian glasshouse in existence. In 2003, the gardens were put on the list of World Heritage Sites.
There are six distinct and magnificent venues for private hire:
Cambridge Cottage, a former Royal residence is an exquisite example of Georgian design. Steeped in history it was originally the home of Lord Bute. The property passed through a distinguished line of British nobility from George III, the Duke of Cambridge to King Edward VII. It offers an intimate classical setting for indoor and outdoor civil wedding ceremonies and receptions throughout the year as well as corporate events and soirees. The Drawing Room is a sanctuary, its walls adorned with paintings from Kew's historic collections illuminated by natural light, ideal for 80 guests seated or up to 120 guests for a reception. The adjoining Gallery has seated dining space for a further 80 and houses exhibitions of botanical art. Both rooms open onto the secluded Duke's Garden,
Not far from the Main Gate is the 18th century Orangery featuring with its high ceilings and full-height windows. Tall, arched doors open onto the terrace affording sweeping garden vistas. The Orangery can accommodate up to 400 people for a drinks party or seating for up to 230.
The Nash Conservatory is the oldest of the 19th Century glasshouses at Kew and is of major historical and architectural importance. Originally built within the ground of Buckingham Palace, this classical conservatory now provides a unique and versatile event space for both daytime and evening corporate events and can accommodate 200 guests in a theatre style or 80 guests in a cabaret style. Also licensed for civil ceremonies, the Nash Conservatory can he hired in conjunction with the Orangery to host your whole event.
The Marianne North Gallery, beautifully restored in 2008, houses 832 paintings depicting more than 900 species of plants. Marianne North devoted her life to travelling the world and painting plants, the result of which can be viewed in the main events space where tier open tier of paintings of flowers, plants, animals and landscapes are on display. The Gallery is ideal for evening drinks receptions for 80 or seated dining for 50, and upon special request the neighbouring Shirley Sherwood Gallery may also be used for larger events.
For a truly unique event experience, enjoy a canapé reception in the Princess of Wales Conservatory, famed for its rare orchids and Chinese Water Dragons. Available for standalone hire or in conjunction with any of our other venues, the Conservatory can accommodate up to 200 guests for a standing event.
The West Wing of the Sir Joseph Banks Building is a striking subterranean space that is appropriate for both daytime and evening events. Large windows within the main room (which is supplied with wireless internet access) provides a tranquil setting and natural daylight for your event. This building is available daily and can hold up to 230 people theatre style and 160 for cabaret style. The Sir Joseph Banks Building also comes with its own private lawn area, ideal for team building activities and summer BBQs.