Inside Kew Gardens, the Palm House is a Victorian glasshouse filled with tropical plants from around the world, including endangered species. Its iron-and-glass form was designed by Decimus Burton and built by Richard Turner in the 1840s, with a curved profile inspired by an upturned ship. Step inside for warm, humid air and dense greenery, then take the spiral stairs to the elevated walkway for a view across the treetops. Plant displays explain the collection, with ground-level paths for those who prefer not to climb.
A glasshouse shaped for tropical plants
The Palm House was designed between 1844 and 1848 by architect Decimus Burton, with builder Richard Turner bringing the plan to life. Its curved outline recalls an upturned ship. The design draws on shipbuilding and was intended to let sunlight reach the plants inside.
Iron and glass give the building its distinctive Victorian character. The structure was built without supporting columns, leaving an open interior for plants to grow. Its size and engineering make the glasshouse an important part of Kew’s history as well as a setting for its tropical collection.
Plants from threatened environments
The Palm House recreates the warm, moist conditions of a tropical rainforest. Its collection includes palms and other tropical plants from parts of Asia, Africa, Australasia, the Americas and Pacific islands. Some species are endangered, and the collection also includes plants that are extinct in the wild.
Look out for plants with uses beyond their appearance. The cocoa tree and African oil palm are among the examples connected with food and other products; the periwinkle is linked to medicine. Kew’s plant research also uses the collection to study questions of sustainability. Information displays around the glasshouse provide details about individual specimens.
Walkways and ground-level views
A spiral staircase leads to an elevated walkway, where you can look down across the plants and their canopy. The route gives a different sense of the height and density of the collection. If you would rather not climb, there is plenty to see from the paths below, including mature palms and other tropical growth.
The air inside can feel very hot and humid, particularly in warm weather. On a cooler day, the contrast with the outdoor gardens can make the glasshouse a comfortable place to pause. Give your camera time to adjust after entering: moisture in the air can fog lenses.
FAQ
How long should I spend in the Palm House?
Allow at least 30 minutes to explore the plants and the building. Stay longer if you plan to climb to the elevated walkway and read the plant displays.
Is the Palm House hot inside?
Yes. It recreates a tropical rainforest climate, so expect warm, humid air. It can feel especially hot in warm weather.
Can I visit the Palm House without using the stairs?
Yes. The elevated walkway is reached by spiral stairs, but you can explore the plants from ground level instead.
Should I book Kew Gardens tickets in advance?
Advance tickets are recommended for Kew Gardens.
