Kew's historic Orangery restored

The Orangery at Kew Gardens is a classical reminder of the Gardens' Royal heritage, dating back to the time when the Hanoverian Kings lived at Kew Palace. With its high ceilings and archways and impressive large windows, the Orangery is one of Kew's most attractive buildings. Over a period of eighteen months, the Grade I listed building has undergone extensive restoration and re-opened in October 2002 as Kew's most elegant restaurant and entertaining venue.

Built for Princess Augusta by Sir William Chambers in 1761, the building was originally filled with citrus fruit plants that were reported to 'bear extremely well and large'. In 1863, it was transformed into a museum, but was restored to hold citrus plants once again in 1959 before being turned into a gift shop and tea-room in the 1970s and 80s. The original armorial bearings of Prince Frederick and Princess Augusta can still be seen, preserved on the front of the building.

Now the Orangery has been sensitively restored. It provides high quality refreshments, serving morning coffees, lunches, snacks and afternoon tea. A new outdoor terrace built of York and Portland stone provides views over the Gardens and a stylish outdoor seating area in the summer.