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Features & Events

Kew 250th logoKew in 2009

Kew celebrates 250 years

Exotic orchids, wildflowers from across the world and stunning garden designs will see Kew Gardens bursting with colour for its 250th anniversary in 2009. Throughout the year, we will be celebrating Kew's pivotal role as a world-leader in plant science and conservation, and giving visitors a glimpse into the important role botanic gardens play in the future of the planet.

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew takes the date of its official 'birth' from the year that William Aiton was appointed to care for and expand the gardens at Kew for Princess Augusta. That was 1759 and the Gardens have expanded and developed beyond all recognition since then.

New Year's Day 2009

To celebrate the start for Kew's 250th year we are opening our gates for free on 1 January and inviting you to blow off those Christmas cobwebs with a walk around Kew's unique, historic landscape. What better way to start the new year?

Tropical Extravaganza

7 February to 8 March 2009

A dramatic Tropical Extravaganza will give an escape from chilly February. The Princess of Wales conservatory will be brimming with exotic plants such as orchids, Bromeliads and Anthuriums. The display, designed by Kew's horticultural team, will also celebrate one of Britain's greatest botanists, Charles Darwin, who studied orchids as an example of co-evolution. As well as 2009 being RBG Kew's 250th anniversary, it is also the 200th anniversary of Darwin's birth and the 150th of the publication of On the Origin of Species.

Kew's 250th Spring

March/April

Kew's much-loved spring celebration of over five million bulbs - the biggest display of seasonal spring colour in the country - will feature a stunning crocus carpet, delightful daffodils and snowdrops nestling in woodland.

Kew's 250th Summer

May to September

More colourful celebrations will meet visitors to Kew in summer, with a number of new floral displays to enjoy. The centre point of the summer will be Kew's Global Garden and Map, a stunning display of colourful plants presenting an important message about the vital conservation work undertaken by Kew and our partners across the world.

Kew 250th Anniversary Presentation Pack

Link to Anniversary Presentation Pack

Celebrate Kew's 250th Anniversary with this specially commissioned uncirculated 50 pence piece by The Royal Mint.

Find out more about the anniversary presentation pack...

Kew 250th Walking Tours

From 5 January, daily walking tours - free

Kew - not just a pretty place : Series of Behind-the-Scenes Tours
Kew - not just a pretty place : Orchid Nurseries
Kew - not just a pretty place: Tropical Nurseries
Orchids Hands-on Sessions

Find out more about the walking tours...

 

More information will be available soon on the anniversary year highlights.

 

 
 

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