Themed wartime tours of the Gardens – 1st November until 30th November 2014

AS part of the commemoration of the Centenary of the entire First World War period (1914-1918) the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is holding a programme of events which will present a view into life at the gardens during wartime.

Kew’s science and horticulture was shaped by the two World Wars and previously unrecognised and unique aspects of plant based endeavours during the war will be explored through themed wartime tours of the gardens.

These walking tours led by volunteer guides will explore the sites, activities and stories across the gardens which are relevant to the World Wars, such as the classically inspired Temple of Arethusa which holds a bronze memorial plaque commemorating Kew’s fallen members and which sits next to the tranquil pond overlooking the Palm House.

Former sites of air raid shelters and bomb damage will be visited with tour guides delving into stories relating to social change and the influx of women working at Kew as well as wartime medicinal plants.

Walking tours will run daily from noon starting from the Guides’ Desk at Victoria Plaza, with the use of the Discovery Bus for less mobile visitors, from 1st November to 30th November 2014. Visit www.kew.org for more information.

Related Posts