Designed in the 18th-century by English architect Sir William Chambers for the royal family. Chambers visited China twice and he was inspired by the buildings he saw. Climb the 253 steps to the top of the Great Pagoda and marvel at spectacular views across London.
If you can make it up the 253 steps, the view from the top is amazing. You can see Wembley Arch to the north and over to Central London to the east. I'd say the best views over the park are from about two thirds of the way up - just because you are shining the tree-tips and the perspective isn't quite so weird. Photographs here are from the top level. The information boards are fascinating. As you go up the levels, the decorative painting of the numbers indicating which level you have reached becomes more intricate. They are really beautiful by the top!
A beautiful afternoon spent wandering through the historical Kew Gardens. It wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Great Pagoda. Stunning views and gorgeous carved dragons festooned in gold. It's hit or miss with the English weather but if you get lucky and it's fine, there's a peaceful corner of London where you can almost forget about the world outside.
It's one of the must-see attractions in Kew Gardens. You can get nice views of the pagoda from the nearby Japanese garden. Unfortunately, if you want to go into the Pagoda and climb up, you'll have to pay. It is PS4.50 per adult. You can also climb up the treetop walk for free views across the park.
Built in 1761 this pagoda towers 163 ft into the air! We elected not to take the stairs to the top due to time constraints but sure the view from the top would be spectacular. It was used to test smoke bombs during WWll.
Got our tickets online together with the park entrance. It was no problem that we showed up half an hour early. Staff was very kind and helpful. We got lucky and could see London's skyline in the distance. The way up is a bit tiring but nothing you can't handle. Definitely worth a visit.
The Pagoda, designed by Sir William Chambers and completed in 1762, beautifully encapsulates the charm of East Asian architecture that inspired its creation. It is adorned with 80 wooden dragons as symbols of strength. Climbing the spiral wooden stairs with 253 steps to the top of this historic, 10-story, 263 years old structure, standing nearly 50 meters tall, was a rewarding experience. The panoramic views of London from such a unique vantage point are undoubtedly breathtaking. What a memorable experience to share with my 10 year old son, who was keen on climbing the stairs!! It was engaging for him as he looked through the windows to spot various London landmarks. If you have only short time or older people or children under the age of 5, skip it and go for tree top adventure instead which has lift too. Tickets cost PS4.50 per adult with some discount for Kew members. Great Pagoda is in the Kew Gardens and entry tickets to Kew Gardens is separate to this.
On-site services
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Getting tickets in advance recommended
Good for kids
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If you can make it up the 253 steps, the view from the top is amazing. You can see Wembley Arch to the north and over to Central London to the east. I'd say the best views over the park are from about two thirds of the way up - just because you are shining the tree-tips and the perspective isn't quite so weird. Photographs here are from the top level. The information boards are fascinating. As you go up the levels, the decorative painting of the numbers indicating which level you have reached becomes more intricate. They are really beautiful by the top!
A beautiful afternoon spent wandering through the historical Kew Gardens. It wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Great Pagoda. Stunning views and gorgeous carved dragons festooned in gold. It's hit or miss with the English weather but if you get lucky and it's fine, there's a peaceful corner of London where you can almost forget about the world outside.
It's one of the must-see attractions in Kew Gardens. You can get nice views of the pagoda from the nearby Japanese garden. Unfortunately, if you want to go into the Pagoda and climb up, you'll have to pay. It is PS4.50 per adult. You can also climb up the treetop walk for free views across the park.
Built in 1761 this pagoda towers 163 ft into the air! We elected not to take the stairs to the top due to time constraints but sure the view from the top would be spectacular. It was used to test smoke bombs during WWll.
Got our tickets online together with the park entrance. It was no problem that we showed up half an hour early. Staff was very kind and helpful. We got lucky and could see London's skyline in the distance. The way up is a bit tiring but nothing you can't handle. Definitely worth a visit.
The Pagoda, designed by Sir William Chambers and completed in 1762, beautifully encapsulates the charm of East Asian architecture that inspired its creation. It is adorned with 80 wooden dragons as symbols of strength. Climbing the spiral wooden stairs with 253 steps to the top of this historic, 10-story, 263 years old structure, standing nearly 50 meters tall, was a rewarding experience. The panoramic views of London from such a unique vantage point are undoubtedly breathtaking. What a memorable experience to share with my 10 year old son, who was keen on climbing the stairs!! It was engaging for him as he looked through the windows to spot various London landmarks. If you have only short time or older people or children under the age of 5, skip it and go for tree top adventure instead which has lift too. Tickets cost PS4.50 per adult with some discount for Kew members. Great Pagoda is in the Kew Gardens and entry tickets to Kew Gardens is separate to this.
