A Brief Introduction to Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens is a botanical garden located in southwest London. It is commonly known as the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The gardens are home to the largest and most diverse collection of living plants in the world.
Kew Gardens was founded in 1759 and has been a major center for environmental research and conservation ever since. The gardens cover 326 acres and are divided into four major areas, each with its own distinct features and collections.
The History of Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens has a rich history, dating back to 1759 when Princess Augusta, the mother of King George III, founded the gardens. Over the years, the gardens have been expanded and developed, and they now include a wide range of attractions and features.
During the early years of the gardens, they were used primarily as a source of food and medicine. However, as time went on, Kew Gardens became a center for scientific research and conservation.
Throughout the years, Kew Gardens has played a major role in some of the most significant scientific discoveries of the modern era. For example, in the 19th century, botanists at Kew Gardens played a major role in the development of quinine, a drug used to treat malaria.
The Attractions of Kew Gardens
Today, Kew Gardens is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London. The gardens offer visitors a wide range of attractions and features, including:
The Palm House
The Palm House is one of the most iconic features of Kew Gardens. It is a large greenhouse that was built in the 19th century and is home to a wide range of tropical plants and trees. Visitors can walk through the Palm House and experience the lush, tropical environment.
The Temperate House
The Temperate House is another iconic feature of Kew Gardens. It is the largest surviving Victorian glasshouse in the world and houses a wide range of temperate plants from around the globe.
The Treetop Walkway
The Treetop Walkway is a 200-meter-long walkway that takes visitors up into the trees of Kew Gardens. The walkway offers visitors a unique perspective on the gardens and is a popular attraction for visitors of all ages.
The Princess of Wales Conservatory
The Princess of Wales Conservatory is a large greenhouse that is home to a wide range of plants from around the world. The conservatory is divided into different climatic zones, each with its own unique collection of plants.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kew Gardens is one of the most iconic and popular tourist attractions in London. The gardens offer visitors a wide range of attractions and features, including the Palm House, the Temperate House, the Treetop Walkway, and the Princess of Wales Conservatory. Whether you are a plant enthusiast or simply looking for a beautiful place to spend an afternoon, Kew Gardens is definitely worth a visit.