- Nearest train stations for Christmas at Kew
- What to expect on the day
- Entry gates and directions
- Popular train routes to Christmas at Kew
- How to find cheap train tickets to Christmas at Kew
- Why book your train with Trip.com?
From 14 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, will once again glow with Christmas at Kew, an after-dark light trail that blends art, nature, and seasonal atmosphere. Visitors can expect glittering installations, illuminated woodland, curated soundscapes, and inviting stalls serving winter food and drinks, all contributing to a tradition that has become a favourite part of London’s festive calendar.
Travelling by train is the simplest way to attend, with nearby stations placing you a few minutes from the gates and sparing you central London traffic and parking difficulties. This guide sets out the nearest stations, practical travel tips, well-used routes from major hubs, and sensible ways to secure cheaper fares, so you can arrive calm and ready to step straight into the lights.
Nearest train stations for Christmas at Kew
- Kew Gardens Station: it's about 500 m from Victoria Gate. Served by the District line (Underground) and the London Overground. Best for arrivals from central London and across the Overground network.
- Kew Bridge Station: it's roughly 800 m from Elizabeth Gate. Served by South Western Railway with direct trains from London Waterloo, Vauxhall, and Clapham Junction. Ideal for South and West London.
- Richmond Station: it's around a 25-minute walk to Victoria Gate. Served by National Rail, London Overground, and the District line. Buses 65 and 110 run from Richmond and stop closer to the gardens.
Travel note: During the peak festive period, there can be planned closures or service changes on the District line and Overground. Check Kew’s official travel updates and TfL/rail notices before setting off.
What to expect on the day
- Dates: 14 November 2025 – 4 January 2026 (closed 17 Nov, 24 Nov, 25 Dec).
- Entry times: Timed slots from 4:20 pm – 8:00 pm (varies by gate).
- Closing times: Gardens close at 10:00 pm ( 9:00 pm on 24 December).
Entry gates and directions
- Victoria Gate (TW9 3JR): Closest to Kew Gardens Station; about 5–7 minutes on foot.
- Elizabeth Gate (TW9 3AE): Closest to Kew Bridge Station; around 8–10 minutes via Kew Bridge.
- Brentford Gate (TW9 3AF): Prepaid parking only.
Tickets sell out every year; book well in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
Popular train routes to Christmas at Kew
From London
- London Waterloo → Kew Bridge: about 30 minutes on South Western Railway (advance fares from £6).
- Earl’s Court → Kew Gardens: about 25 minutes on the District line.
- Highbury & Islington → Kew Gardens: about 40 minutes on the London Overground.
From outside London
- Brighton → Clapham Junction → Kew Bridge (SWR for the final leg).
- Reading → Richmond → Kew Gardens (change to District line or Overground at Richmond).
- Plan and book in advance with Trip.com for the best fares and instant mobile e-tickets.
Plan and book in advance with Trip.com for the best fares and instant mobile e-tickets.
How to find cheap train tickets to Christmas at Kew
- Book early: Advance fares typically appear around 12 weeks ahead and are cheapest when released.
- Use Railcards: Save up to 1/3 with a 16–25, Two Together, Senior, or Network Railcard.
- Travel off-peak: Evening departures after the rush hour are usually cheaper and quieter also perfect for a relaxed trail slot.
- Split ticketing: On longer journeys, splitting your fare can lower the total; check reputable split-ticketing tools.
- Stay overnight: Consider a hotel nearby to avoid busy late services and explore Richmond or central London the next day.
Why book your train with Trip.com?
- Official partner with 300+ global rail operators including National Rail, TfL, and South Western Railway
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