Kew Gardens Reveals Plan for Brentford Gate
Permission being sought for overhaul of 'tired' entrances
CGI of improved Brentford Gate entrance, Kew Gardens. Picture: RBG Kew/Hugh Broughton Architects
December 1, 2025
Kew Gardens has unveiled plans to overhaul its “tired” entrances as they have fallen into poor condition. The Brentford Gate entrance to the botanic gardens is set to be transformed as part of long-term plans to improve three of Kew’s four entrances.
Kew has submitted plans to Richmond Council to replace admissions buildings at the entrance which faces Brentford across the river, as the first step in this project, after assessing it as most urgently in need of attention. The works will lead as an example for proposed improvements to Lion Gate and Elizabeth Gate when budget becomes available.
Victoria Gate, which is Kew’s main entrance, has not been earmarked for works as it is in much better condition.
A report by Kew said the three entrances do not provide visitors with a welcome that is fitting for such a world-famous attraction. It said their kiosks have become “tired looking and outdated”, with welfare facilities for staff also of a low standard.
Feedback received by Kew reported “unhygienic and uncomfortable facilities, which lack privacy or proper separation of functions”, at Brentford Gate. Particular concerns were raised over the “low quality of staff toilets, kitchenettes and welfare facilities”.
The plans would see the kiosks at Brentford Gate demolished and replaced with a single admissions building, which would have a canopy to provide shade. The new building would be set back from the gate to create a more open and welcoming space with better views into the gardens, which would improve visitors’ experience of queueing.
The building would also have a staff-only accessible toilet, along with new seats, bins, water fountains and signs around it.
CGI of improved Brentford Gate entrance, Kew Gardens. Picture: RBG Kew/Hugh Broughton Architects
The report said the upgrades will improve the quality and accessibility of the entrance, with the new facilities providing “both fast hassle-free entry for regular visitors, but also a great face-to-face customer service available for all when they want or need it”.
The report said: “It is evident that any ticket kiosk/admissions building welcoming visitors to one of London’s best attractions should reflect the values of the institution that is serves. In this case the botanic gardens are at once a heritage asset, scientific collection, and a living (and constantly evolving) cultural site.
“The new admissions buildings at Brentford Gate, which will replace outdated facilities, have a role to play in improving inclusivity, wayfinding, brand identity and ecological sustainability.”
The current entrance to the gardens at Brentford Gate
Richmond Council will make a decision on the plans in due course.
Charlotte Lillywhite - Local Democracy Reporter