Kew Gardens gets a much-needed splash of colour, as its annual Orchid Festival returns.
While most of London shivers in the wintry cold, the steamy environs of the tropical Princess of Wales Conservatory once again become (a temporary) home to exotic species of orchid. It's a rather special one this year too, as the festival marks its 30th anniversary.
China is the country whose flora and fauna is represented this year, with floral dragons, koi carp and pandas brightening up the glasshouse. Expect to see a Chinese dragon made from lotus seed heads, orchid plants and dried leaves winding across the central pond, which is always the setting for the festival's stunning centrepiece. Nine koi carp crafted from Gingko leaves and plant material will swim through a smaller pond, symbolising luck and success.
Surrounding all the above are thousands of native Chinese orchids, making for an Instagram-friendly day out. End your visit by exiting via an archway adorned with a horse — a nod to 2026 being the Chinese Year of the Horse. Colombia, Peru, Mexico and Costa Rica have been represented in previous years.
Orchids After Hours returns on selected Friday and Saturday evenings in February, allowing adults to experience Orchids after dark. Here, flowers are atmospherically backlit, with live dance performances and music inspired by China — plus Chinese cuisine and cocktails to sample.
Orchid Festival at Kew Gardens runs Saturday 7 February-Sunday 8 March 2026 in the Princess of Wales Conservatory. Entry is included with a standard admission ticket to Kew Gardens. £1 entry is available for recipients of Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Legacy Benefits and asylum applicants.
