Kew Gardens Palace | Explore The Rich History Of The Palace

About Kew Gardens Palace

Kew Gardens Palace, also known as the Royal Palace of Kew, is a historic royal residence located within the stunning Kew Gardens in Richmond upon Thames, London. It was originally built in the early 18th century as a family home for Frederick, Prince of Wales, son of King George II, and his wife Princess Augusta of Saxe-Gotha. The palace was later used by several other members of the royal family, including King George III, who frequently visited the gardens.

The palace has undergone various renovations and additions over the years, with the most significant changes made during the reign of King George III. The king commissioned architect William Chambers to redesign and expand the palace, resulting in the addition of elegant Orangery and the creation of a grand entrance known as the Great Pagoda. The palace also features beautifully landscaped gardens, including the famous Kew Gardens, which are now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

In addition to its impressive architecture and gardens, Kew Gardens Palace also has a rich cultural history. It was home to several notable figures, including the artists Johann Zoffany and William Kent, and the palace's library holds a collection of rare books and manuscripts, including works by Shakespeare and Isaac Newton.

Today, Kew Gardens Palace is open to the public, and visitors can explore the beautifully preserved rooms, admire the stunning artwork and furnishings, and learn about the palace's fascinating history. It remains a popular attraction for both locals and tourists, offering a glimpse into the lives of the royal family and the beauty of one of London's most beloved gardens.

History Of Kew Gardens Palace

Kew Gardens Palace has a rich and fascinating history that spans several centuries. It was originally built in 1728 as a family home for Frederick, Prince of Wales, and his wife Princess Augusta of Saxe-Gotha. The palace was intended to serve as a retreat from the hustle and bustle of London and a place where the royal family could enjoy the peace and tranquility of the gardens.

Over the years, Kew Gardens Palace underwent several changes and renovations. During the reign of King George III, the palace was extensively redesigned and expanded by architect William Chambers. The king was a keen botanist and was passionate about the gardens at Kew, so he invested heavily in the palace and gardens.

One of the most significant additions during this time was the Orangery, a grand glasshouse that was used to house citrus trees during the winter months. The Great Pagoda was also constructed during this period, adding to the grandeur and beauty of the palace and gardens.

Throughout its history, Kew Gardens Palace has been home to several notable figures, including the artists Johann Zoffany and William Kent. The palace's library is also home to a remarkable collection of rare books and manuscripts, including works by Shakespeare and Isaac Newton.

Today, Kew Gardens Palace remains an important cultural and historical landmark in London, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to admire its stunning architecture and explore its beautiful gardens.

Highlights Of The Kew Gardens Palace

The Palace

The Kew Gardens Palace, also known as the Royal Palace of Kew, is a historic royal residence located in Kew, London. It was originally built in 1631 as a mansion for Sir Hugh Portman and was later purchased by King George III in 1781. The palace has undergone several renovations and additions over the years, with the latest renovation completed in 2018.

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The Rooms

The palace features beautifully preserved rooms showcasing stunning artwork and furnishings. Visitors can explore the King's dining room, the Queen's drawing room, the Red Velvet Room, the Chinese Room, and other rooms that were once used by the royal family. The rooms are decorated with works by renowned artists such as William Kent, Joshua Reynolds, and Johann Zoffany.

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The Library

The library at Kew Gardens Palace is home to a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts, including works by Shakespeare and Isaac Newton. It also houses the Kew Herbarium, which contains over seven million dried plant specimens. The library is open to researchers by appointment and hosts several events throughout the year, including lectures and exhibitions.

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The Gardens

The Kew Gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage site and feature a vast array of plant life, including rare and exotic species from around the world. The gardens cover 330 acres and are divided into several sections, including the Palm House, the Temperate House, the Princess of Wales Conservatory, and the Waterlily House. Visitors can explore the gardens on foot or take a guided tour to learn more about the fascinating history and science of the plants.

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The Orangery

The Orangery at Kew Gardens Palace is a grand glasshouse that was constructed during the reign of King George III. It was originally used to house citrus trees during the winter months but now serves as a venue for weddings, events, and exhibitions. The Orangery's elegant design and stunning glass walls make it a popular location for special events. Visitors can also explore the interior of the Orangery, which features beautiful plant displays and sculptures.

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The Great Pagoda

The Great Pagoda at Kew Gardens Palace is a grand entrance that was built during the reign of King George III. The pagoda features stunning architecture, with ten stories and 253 steps leading to the top. Visitors can climb to the top of the pagoda to enjoy panoramic views of the gardens and surrounding area. The pagoda was originally adorned with 80 wooden dragons, but they were removed in the 18th century.

The Artwork

Kew Gardens Palace is home to a magnificent collection of artworks that range from paintings and sculptures to botanical illustrations and photographs. The collection includes pieces from many different time periods and styles, with a focus on botanical art and illustration. Some of the most notable pieces include works by renowned botanical illustrators such as Georg Dionysius Ehret and Marianne North. Visitors can view the artworks throughout the palace's many galleries and exhibition spaces, or attend special exhibitions and events dedicated to specific artists or themes.

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The History

Kew Gardens Palace has a rich and storied history that dates back over 250 years. Originally built as a private palace for King George III and Queen Charlotte, it was later converted into a botanical research center and public garden. Over the years, the palace has been home to some of the world's greatest botanists and plant collectors and has played an important role in the study and conservation of plant life.

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The Science

The gardens at Kew feature a range of scientific exhibits and displays, highlighting the importance of plant life to our world. The palace's research facilities and collections are among the most extensive in the world, with over seven million plant specimens, as well as a vast library of rare books and manuscripts. Kew scientists conduct research on a wide range of topics related to plant life, including plant conservation, ecology, genetics, and taxonomy.

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