What’s on this June at Kew Gardens and Wakehurst
Release date: 19 April 2024
- Marc Quinn: Light into Life now open at Kew Gardens
- After hours art classes with 2B or Not 2B collective in the Temperate House
- Horticultural highlights include peonies, early roses, and early summer colour
- New trails at Kew Gardens
- Wellbeing events include yoga in Kew’s historic Temperate House and sound baths
- Opening of Meadowland at Wakehurst
- Coming soon: The Joe Wicks Festival at Kew Gardens
Kew Gardens
Marc Quinn: Light into Life | 4 May – 29 September | Entry included in admission
Now open at Kew Gardens is a major new exhibition from contemporary artist Marc Quinn. Exploring the relationship between people and plants, Light into Life encompasses monumental sculptures across the Gardens, alongside a dedicated presentation of works in the Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art. Offering moments of thoughtful reflection and interaction across Kew, Light into Life examines our complex relationship with the natural world and features a selection of brand-new artworks, unveiled for the first time this summer.
After Hours Art Classes with 2B or Not 2B Collective | Various sessions from June – August | Suitable for adults 18 and over | Concessions available
Join 2B Or Not 2B Collective for a bespoke series of art classes this summer inspired by nature and diverse bodies. Taking place in Kew’s spectacular Temperate House, these workshops offer the opportunity to learn key skills and techniques in life drawing and fashion illustration, immersed in botanical surroundings and accompanied by curated music.
Botanical Bodies Collage | 14 June | 7pm
This workshop will encourage participants to draw with scissors combining their drawing techniques with the magic of collage, in this workshop led by the co-founder of 2B or Not 2B Collective, Jessica Au. Please note that life models will take part in this session, and they will pose partially naked.
Silent Stories - A Journey Through Poses | 20 June | 7pm
This workshop will explore storytelling through sequence posing and creative drawing. Models will present a series of poses that tell a story. Participants will draw these - focusing on transitions, emotions, and environment. Led by tutor Zehra Odunayo.
Fashion & Nature | 21 & 28 June | 7pm
A multi-dimensional workshop integrating art, nature, fashion, and sustainability led by tutor Isher Dhiman, who has previously collaborated with London Fashion Week and London Craft Week.
Horticultural Highlights: Summer
Horticultural highlights on display this month at Kew Gardens include delicate peonies in the redesigned Peony Garden, and the spectacular laburnum arch behind Kew Palace, a hidden treasure. You can also discover vibrant bursts of colour throughout the Agius Evolution Garden, and the first flush of roses will make their appearance in new Wild Rose Garden, dedicated to the collection of species roses.
The Nash Sessions: The Hygge Trio | 6 June | 6.30pm – 9pm
Enjoy an enchanting candlelit concert in the Nash Conservatory at Kew Gardens – a magical setting for a summer soirée with family and friends. The Hygge Trio is a clarinet trio, consisting of Japanese clarinettist Tomomi Kubota; Hong Kong-born cellist Hei Chit Wong; and British-born, Chinese pianist Helen Meng. By presenting pieces from different eras and styles, along with the distinctive timbres of the individual instruments, The Hygge Trio will showcase the variety of sonic qualities within this unique ensemble.
Silent Disco at Kew Gardens | 15 June | 7pm – 10.30pm
Put on your headset and don your best pair of dancing shoes for the first ever silent disco at Kew Gardens!
We are delighted to welcome back Auntie Maureen to the decks after her joyous sets at the Queer Nature After Hours events in October 2023. Also enjoy mellow classical music or a spoken word piece in the calming environment of the Davies Exploration House.
New Trails to enjoy at Kew Gardens
New for summer at Kew Gardens are a series of exciting, themed walking trails, drawing inspiration from different highlights of Kew’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. From art and architecture to remarkable trees, these six bespoke trails take in highlights across the Gardens, from remarkable glasshouses to hidden horticultural gems. Pick up a map on arrival or download your chosen trail in advance of your visit.
Wellbeing at Kew
Kew’s popular wellbeing events return this month, supporting both physical and mental wellbeing within the inspiring surroundings of Kew Gardens’ 320-acre UNESCO World Heritage site. All tickets include entry to Kew Gardens and a 20% discount in our restaurants.
Tai chi | 7, 14, 21 & 28 June | 9am – 10am | Mediterranean Garden
Boost your physical and mental wellbeing with the centuries-old Chinese martial art, ta chi, amidst the tranquil surroundings of Kew’s Mediterranean Garden. Six week courses also available for beginners and intermediate participants.
Forest bathing | 1, 8, 15, 21 & 29 June | 10.30am- 12.30pm | Arboretum
Inspired by the Japanese art of Shinrin-yoku, forest bathing is a sensory woodland walk alongside an expert guide, who will lead participants as they disconnect from the stresses of everyday life. Organised in partnership with the Forest Bathing Institute.
Temperate House Yoga | 9 June, 7pm – 8.15pm & Saturday 29 June, 7.45am – 9am | Temperate House
This one-hour vinyasa flow sessions are held in the spectacular Temperate House. Enjoy pre-opening classes in the midst of 10,000 rare and endangered plants, led by Anil Jangi, Kew’s own yoga instructor.
Sound baths in nature | 12 & 19 June | 4pm – 5pm | Nash Conservatory
Immerse yourself in the calming sounds of gongs, singing bowls and gentle percussion in a therapeutic sonic experience for relaxation and wellbeing. No previous experience is needed for this expert-led session, making it the perfect opportunity to try a new way of reaching deep meditation and relaxation.
Pilates | 12 & 19 June | 10am – 11am | Nash Conservatory
Tone your body in our historic 19th century Nash Conservatory with our special Pilates sessions. Find mindfulness through pairing breathing exercises with movement; our knowledgeable and friendly Pilates instructor will focus on improving your flexibility, strength, and posture.
Wine Walks | 19 June | Timed entry from 6pm
Experience the best of wine, art and nature with an exclusive summer after hours walk, accompanied by our new Kew Series wine courtesy of Laithwaites. Beginning with a welcome glass of sparkling Blanc de Cabernet, a 2km self-guided walk awaits, taking in several of our main Marc Quinn: Light into Life sculpture locations, including a private viewing in the Shirley Sherwood Gallery of Botanical Art. The walk continues to the Temperate House, out to the Lake and Arboretum, and back to our Pavilion Bar and Grill via the Japanese Landscape and Great Pagoda.
Kew Publishing Book of the Month | Kew Answers for Everyday Gardeners: 100 Questions Answered by Polly Stevens
Never find yourself stuck for gardening advice again with this handy and informative book, packed with advice from the experts at Kew Gardens. Polly Stevens, manager of decorative displays at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew shares her answers to the questions she gets asked most by visitors to the gardens - from pest control to wildlife care, planting advice to pruning. This is a beautiful and practical guide for everyday gardeners, destined to become a staple on every gardener's bookshelf.
Coming Soon: Joe Wicks Festival at Kew| 7 July | 9.30am – 6pm
Experience the thrill of a brand-new wellbeing festival with Joe Wicks, also known as The Body Coach, coming to Kew Gardens this summer. Hosted by the much-loved fitness coach who won the hearts and minds of the nation with his daily PE workouts, Joe Wicks, in collaboration with Kew Gardens, will host the ultimate feel-good family festival - united for a day of fun, fitness, workshops, inspiring talks, great food and more. Pre-booking essential.
Wakehurst
Horticultural Highlights
Visitors can enjoy early signs of summer, as the gardens become greener, lusher and richer, and tree canopies flourish, with maroon maples lining the banks of The Slips. The Walled Garden springs to life with bold colour, transforming into a wonderful expression of the English Country Garden, and meadows erupt with wildflowers, the perfect place to soak up the sun.
Events
Meadowland | 14 June to 10 September | All day | Free with entry
Through the meadows at Wakehurst and four bespoke art installations, immerse yourself in a showcase of the diverse wildflowers, grasses and wildlife that form these precious ecosystems, and be inspired to join us in protecting this rare habitat for future generations. For the first time ever, step into South Park – the 40 acres of ancient parkland which borders our Asian Heath Garden, where wildflower species will bloom in the height of summer.
Summer theatre: A Midsummer Night’s Dream | 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 and 30 June | 2.30pm to 5.30pm | Adult: £17.50, Young person (17-25): £8.75, Child (4 to 16): £5, Under 4s free!
Join the characters on their forest journey, meeting mischievous fairies, passionate lovers, and noble courtiers. Set in the late Victorian era, this open-air favourite embraces the fascination with fairy magic, inspired by Arthur Rackham's style. Explore our wild gardens at Wakehurst and spend the day immersing yourself in nature's wonders. Bring a deckchair, pack a picnic, and enjoy an enchanting show suitable for adults and children of all ages!
Trees for Bees trail | All day | Free with entry
Visitors can take part in new citizen science study, as they help our pollination experts uncover which trees best support our pollinating insects. Pick up a free guide on arrival, and follow the trail, snapping images of the pollinators you spot.
Planet Wakehurst | All day | Free with entry
Experience the UK’s largest outdoor art installation, as the impressive Planet Wakehurst photomontage wraps the Mansion, which is undergoing restoration. The 1500m2 canvas, showcases the wealth of biodiversity at Wakehurst and will be up for all to enjoy. Experience a new view of the gardens on our Canopy Walk, 33ft up!
Wakehurst Workshops
Bat walks | 6 and 13 June | 8.30pm - 10.30pm | Members: £18, non-members: £20
This evening walk and talk will start with experienced surveyor, Tara Dawson, speaking about the different bat species that live in the gardens, their behaviours, habitat requirements and what Wakehurst has to offer them. Using electronic detectors, we will try to pick up the ultrasonic calls of hunting bats as we walk. You will also learn about other animal species, birds and insects that call Wakehurst home.
Willow weaving workshops | 7 June| 10.30am to 4.30pm | Members: £80, non-members: £89
Workshop leader Dominic Parrette, a Sussex-based basket maker and willow grower, will guide you through the willow weaving process to help you produce a stunning hare sculpture that will look great in your garden.
Forest bathing | 8 and 28 June | 10am to 1pm or 2pm to 5pm | Members: £22.50, non-members: £25
Reconnect with nature and unwind from the stresses of everyday life. Based on the Japanese art of Shinrin-yoku, forest bathing allows you to slow down as you immerse yourself in the forest environment. Swedish teacher and workshop leader Helena Skoog will show you how to use all your senses to connect with your surroundings, drawing on the power of nature to relieve tension, relax and nourish your sense of wellbeing.
Reiki I | 15 June | 10am to 5pm | Members: £85.50, non-members: £95
Become a qualified practitioner in Reiki, a subtle energy complementary therapy. In this workshop, you will gain the skills and knowledge for self-treatment and full treatment of others, and learn about the chakras - the body's main subtle energy points.
Healing sound bath | 22 June | 10am to 11.30am, 12.30 to 2pm and 3pm to 4.30pm | Members: £19.80, non-members: £22
Receive the healing vibrations and sacred sounds of the gongs in our stunning outdoor space in the heart of Wakehurst. This workshop is a chance to relax in a beautiful, quiet space in nature where you will be taken on an inner journey with sound.
Wildflower wander | 30 June | 10.30am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 4pm | Members: £18, non-members: £20
Accompanied by local ecologist Tom Forward, delve into the fascinating story of our wildflower meadows – from their intriguing origins to the art of identifying diverse species, and the ongoing stewardship that keeps them thriving. Our adventure kicks off at the Millennium Seed Bank, where we'll delve into the intricate interplay of soils and substrates, understanding their pivotal role in nurturing diverse plant communities. En route, we'll also take in the picturesque beauty of the Coronation Meadow and the tranquil no-mow areas, offering you a truly immersive and enriching summer experience.
Exhibitions
Surviving or Thriving: An exhibition on plants and us | Daily, 10am – 3.30pm | Millennium Seed Bank | Included with entry
This exhibition brings Kew’s State of the World’s Plants reports to life, telling the story of why some plants are only surviving, while others are thriving. Through film, audio, models, and a futuristic garden, explore the challenges that plants face and discover the vital role of fungi.
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ENDS
Notes to Editors
About Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is a world-famous scientific organisation, internationally respected for its outstanding collections and scientific expertise in plant and fungal diversity, conservation, and sustainable development in the UK and around the globe. Kew’s scientists and partners lead the way in the fight against biodiversity loss and finding nature-based solutions to the climate crisis, aided by five key scientific priorities outlined in Kew’s Science Strategy 2021-2025. Kew Gardens is also a major international and top London visitor attraction. Kew’s 132 hectares of historic, landscaped gardens, and Wakehurst, Kew’s Wild Botanic Garden and ‘living laboratory’, attract over 2.5 million visits every year. Kew Gardens was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2003 and celebrated its 260th anniversary in 2019. Wakehurst is home to the Millennium Seed Bank, the largest wild plant seed bank in the world and a safeguard against the disastrous effects of climate change and biodiversity loss. RBG Kew received approximately one third of its funding from Government through the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and research councils. Further funding needs to support RBG Kew’s vital scientific and educational work comes from donors, memberships and commercial activity including ticket sales. For tickets, please visit www.kew.org/kew-gardens/visit-kew-gardens/tickets. In the first six months since implementing a new accessibility scheme for those in receipt of Universal Credit, Pension Credit and Legacy Benefits, Kew has welcomed over 50,000 visitors with £1 tickets.
About Wakehurst
Please note that Wakehurst is referred to just as Wakehurst, not Wakehurst Place. It is not a National Trust property.
Wakehurst, Kew’s wild botanic garden in Sussex is home to the Millennium Seed Bank and over 500 acres of the world’s plants including temperate woodlands, ornamental gardens and a nature reserve. It is situated in the High Weald of Sussex, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and focuses on wild plant collections. The Millennium Seed Bank houses and protects seed from the world’s most substantial and diverse collection of threatened and useful wild plants, making it the most biodiverse place on earth.
RBG Kew receives just under half of its funding from Government through the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and research councils. Further funding needed to support Kew’s vital work comes from donors, membership and commercial activity including ticket sales.
In March 2021, RBG Kew launched its 10-year strategy Our Manifesto for Change 2021. The institution’s ultimate goal is step up to help to end the extinction crisis and contribute to creating a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. In the wake of a global pandemic, and with the future of the planet in peril, the strategy represents a public commitment by RBG Kew to do everything in its power to reverse the environmental devastation of biodiversity loss and climate change. The five key priorities are 1) Delivering science-based knowledge and solutions to protect biodiversity and use natural resources sustainably 2) Inspiring people to protect the natural world 3) Training the next generation of experts: 4) Extending our reach 5) Influencing national and international opinion and policy.
On May 25 2021 RBG Kew launched its new Sustainability Strategy – committing to become Climate Positive by 2030 and marking a step-change in our urgent action to tackle the climate and biodiversity crisis.