Kew Gardens Tickets: How to Get Free, £1, and Discounted Entry
There are several ways to save on admission to Kew Gardens. Whether you are looking for general Kew Gardens discounts, the £1 entry offer, or completely free Kew Gardens tickets, here is a complete breakdown of current ticket offers, eligibility requirements, and how to claim them.
How to Get Free Kew Gardens Tickets
Before paying full price, check if you qualify for completely free entry. You are eligible for free entry to Kew Gardens if you fall into any of the following categories:
- Children under 4: Babies and toddlers always enter for free.
- Kew and/or Wakehurst Members: Unlimited free entry year-round.
- Registered Blind and Partially Sighted Visitors: Free entry for the visitor and an essential carer.
- Essential Carers: Carers enter for free when accompanying a visitor with a disability.
- Corporate Members: Both adult and child corporate members receive free entry.
- Community Access Scheme Members: Valid for registered community groups.
£1 Kew Gardens Tickets (Universal Credit & Benefits)
One of the best initiatives available is the £1 Kew Gardens ticket. To make nature accessible to everyone, visitors receiving certain government benefits can claim a massive discount. You are eligible if you currently receive:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Legacy Benefits (such as Employment and Support Allowance / ESA)
How to book: You can book your £1 tickets online via the official Kew website, or simply walk up and pay £1 at the entrance gates. Please note: You must present proof of your benefits upon arrival to validate your ticket.
More Kew Gardens Ticket Discounts & Offers
If you don’t qualify for free or £1 entry, there are still fantastic ways to secure cheap Kew Gardens tickets.
Student and Young Person Tickets (£8.50)
If you are aged 16 to 29, or a student of any age, you can purchase a Young Person’s ticket for just £8.50 (must be booked in advance). Students must show a valid NUS or University card at the gate. If you are aged 16–29 and not a student, you simply need to show proof of age.
Late Entry Tickets: Visit After 4 PM (£10 Adults / £3 Children)
Don’t mind a later afternoon visit? You can grab a discounted ticket by entering after 4 PM. Adult tickets drop to just £10, and children’s tickets (ages 4-15) are only £3. These can be booked online via the normal booking page (scroll to the bottom) or purchased directly at the gate.
Local Resident Discount (£16)
Living nearby has its perks! Residents of the local area can purchase tickets for £16. This requires advance booking online, and you must bring proof of address (such as a valid driver’s licence, recent utility bill, or bank statement) to be checked at the gate.
Seniors and Visitors with Disabilities (£16)
Senior citizens aged 65 and over, as well as visitors with a disability, can enjoy a reduced rate of £16. Advance booking is required, and ID may be requested upon entry.
What About the Kew Gardens Blue Light Card Discount?
In the past, Kew Gardens offered free entry for emergency service workers and NHS staff via the Blue Light Card. Please note: They have temporarily stopped the free ticket offer for Blue Light Card holders. We will update this page immediately if the offer returns.
Bonus Freebies While You Visit Kew
Your ticket gets you more than just entry to the gardens! While exploring, you can take advantage of:
- Free Guided Tours: Learn about the incredible plant life and history of Kew Gardens from expert volunteers.
- Free Water Refill Stations: Bring a reusable bottle to stay hydrated on a budget as you walk around the grounds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I get £1 Kew tickets on the gate?
Yes, £1 tickets for those on Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or Legacy Benefits can be purchased directly at the gate, provided you can show proof of eligibility when you arrive.
Are Kew Gardens tickets cheaper in advance?
Yes, several tickets—including the Young Person discount, Senior Citizen discount, and Local Resident discount—must be booked in advance online to secure the lower price.