Those heading down to London this weekend will want to catch an iconic attraction before it close to the public for five years.
Kew Gardens Grade 1 listed Temperate House, the world's largest surviving Victorian glasshouse, will undergo major restoration work. Visitors will be disappointed to hear that some of their best-loved plants will be out of bounds while building takes place.
Costing a massive £34.3 million, the building will close its doors on Sunday August 4th. If you want to catch a look of just how the glasshouse will look, head down this weekend to meet the designers who will be on hand to answer your questions.
Temperate House manager David Cooke said his team are looking to bring the space up to date with the 21st century while also restoring the greenhouse to its former glory.
He revealed: “It is thrilling to be part of such a tremendous operation that will not only preserve the world’s largest Victorian glasshouse, but also allow us to continue caring for and improving the priceless and historic plant collection that is the heart of the Temperate House."
When the work is complete, Mr Cooke will be able to expand the plant collection, and expressed an interested in more useful and medicinal plants on view.
Temperate House was opened in 1863 and has been home to some of the rarest plants in the world.
Only one South African cycad named Encephalartos woodii has ever been found growing in the wild. Kew has its very own specimen taking centre stage in the stunning Victorian glasshouse. The tree will not be moved during restoration work and will remain under protective covering as architects get busy around it.
However gardening fanatics can anticipate a new and beautiful space which looks set to reopen in May 2018.
Why not start your own collection in your greenhouse or garden so you don't miss out on top summer scents which will bring life and colour to your home.
