Kew Palace (on the grounds of Kew Gardens) was once a much larger complex, but most parts were demolished by various English kings as time went by - the only part left now is "Dutch House" with its striking red facade. It is open to the public, but only accessible if you buy a ticket for whole Kew Gardens, and that ain't cheap: almost €20. But since the gardens are spectacular and will occupy you for hours on end, it's totally worth it.

Dutch House is smaller than it looks from the outside, most rooms are quite tiny. Some are fully decorated with vintage furniture, but compared to other, bigger palaces around the country, this one comes off as quite modest (see pictures). Dutch House is more like a "summer hideout". A visit should take you no longer than 30-40 minutes.

A charming volunteer (well, it was on my visit) will greet you at the entrance and provide basic instructions on how to explore the house. When it's raining, umbrellas must be left at the entrance or be put into your bag. As you work your way from room to room, floor to floor, you will get a good impression of how employers and servants lived and worked in the 17th and 18th century. It is informative without being spectacular.

But Dutch House is surely one of the major sights within Kew Gardens (along with the larger greenhouses and the pagoda), so don't miss it during your visit.