Waterlily House — Attraction in London

You cannot go to The Royal Botanical Gardens of Kew without stepping into this luxurious wee heated conservatory! As you step into it's annex you get the most glorious odour of moist jungle and pond (I love this smell). To either side of the entrance is a wee planted pond. Going into the main area you are greeted with an immense circular pond with an array of circular lily pads almost always some will be in flower, from wee to mahoosive. Reflected are the fantastic engineering skills of the metalwork that holds up the ceiling. Pin pricked by the ripples of wee tropical fish mouthing the surface water. In each corner of the conservatory is another wee planted pond. Flanked all the way around these and the entire conservatory are flowering plants. And above each of the corner ponds is a magnificent planted basket. Very rarely crowded at the best of times. And to my mind, it is my favourite of all the conservatories within...

One of my favourite spots in Kew Gardens. It's worth noting that this area is only open seasonally, so it's not accessible all year round—definitely something to keep in mind when planning your visit.

The highlight here is the stunning Victoria amazonica water lilies, which are especially impressive in August. If you’re lucky, you might even catch one in bloom—but be quick! The flowers only last for a single day, making the experience feel even more special and fleeting.

On the side, there are also Mimosa pudica plants—commonly known as the "sensitive plant"—which are always a hit with children. The way their leaves fold up when touched adds a fun, interactive element that kids (and adults!) really enjoy.

All in all, it’s a magical little corner of Kew that offers both botanical wonder and playful charm. A must-see if you’re visiting during the...

8 year old was asking why they were cutting up the large lillies.. and the lovely lady explained to him, we watch 3 ladies at work attending to the large ones and she said the small one they will leave to grow... she was also making sure she did her health and safety.. taking into account of telling everyone to stand back because these lillies had large prinkly stuff very much enjoyed where this is housed.. .also beautiful cactus plants... and massive Aloe Vera's ... 8 year old help grow these at home.. but he was truely amazed to compare the sizes... Wonderful...