Private Pagoda Tours

You and up to 7 friends and family can experience a private guided climb of the Pagoda, with your own personal costumed guide on hand to tell you all about the history of this fascinating building and point out all the famous landmarks.

You’ll meet your tour guide at 9.45 at Lion Gate (near Richmond station), and learn the history of this incredible building; from it’s inspiration in 18th century China to the unique role it played in the Second World War. Your 45-minute tour will also give you an insight into the restoration of the Pagoda in 2018 and the detailed investigation work that was carried out to reintroduce the Pagoda dragons to Kew! Once you’ve climbed to the top, you’ll enjoy fantastic views across Kew Gardens and West London.

The Great Pagoda is part of Historic Royal Palaces, and so if you wish to visit Kew Gardens after your tour, you will need to book a separate Gardens ticket for that day. You can do that here.

Please note that the Great Pagoda is a challenging climb of 253 steps. Please read the following important information before booking:
• Due to health and safety reasons, we cannot accommodate children under 5 on the tour.
• Sensible shoes should be worn for the climb.
• Please don’t attempt the climb if you have any health conditions that would be made worse by the experience.
• As the Pagoda is an enclosed, indoor space, we do ask that you wear masks when inside (exemptions aside.)
• As the Pagoda has a small spiral staircase, large bags (larger than standard airport carry on) may not be brought on the tour.

HRP Members or Members of Royal Botanic Gardens Kew. Please note a valid membership card from at least one member of the group must be shown on arrival.

HRP Members - please log in using the login link above and then return to this page to book your ticket.

If you wish to book a private tour for a date in the next 7 days, please email us at pagodatours@hrp.org.uk, as we may be able to help.