Kew Gardens and Tapas in Mortlake: A Relaxed Day Out

7 days ago

2 min read

The Palm House at Kew Gardens, photographed during a real local visit

Kew Gardens is one of southwest London’s most memorable days out, but the visit does not have to end at the garden gate. Continue towards Mortlake for a relaxed meal and you can turn the plants, glasshouses and long walks into a complete afternoon or evening.

Plan the garden first

Kew Gardens changes through the seasons, so the best route depends on what is flowering, the weather and how much walking your group wants to do. The site combines historic landscapes, scientific collections and major glasshouses, with enough variety for both first-time visitors and regular members.

Opening times and last entry can change during the year. Check Kew’s official visitor information on the day you travel rather than relying on an old itinerary.

Do not try to see everything

A better visit usually comes from choosing two or three priorities. You might focus on the Palm House and nearby gardens, follow the seasonal highlights or give children time to explore without hurrying them between every landmark. Comfortable shoes matter: even a selective visit can involve plenty of walking.

Build in a pause before leaving Kew. It is easier to enjoy the rest of the day when nobody is exhausted or hungry, and Mortlake offers a quieter place to settle after the busiest parts of the attraction.

Continue to The Tapestry

The Tapestry Tapas Bar at 1 Lower Richmond Road is well placed for visitors continuing through this part of southwest London. The journey from Kew is short enough to make sense as the second part of the day, while Mortlake’s atmosphere feels distinct from the attraction itself.

Tapas is useful after a group outing because it avoids the pressure of choosing one large dish immediately. Start with shared plates, add paella or another substantial option if everyone is hungry, and enjoy drinks in the bar or garden.

Parking near The Tapestry

Visitors can find free on-street parking options around The Tapestry at weekends and after 6:30pm. Mortlake’s wider controlled parking zone normally operates Monday to Friday from 9am to 11am, with bank and public holidays free. Individual bays, yellow lines and main-road spaces can have different restrictions, so always read the sign beside the exact space before leaving your car.

A practical Kew-to-Mortlake plan

Visit Kew during the morning or early afternoon, checking the current closing and last-entry times. Leave enough energy for the journey to Mortlake, then plan The Tapestry as the place to sit, talk and eat rather than another stop to rush through.

For current menus, opening information and table enquiries, visit The Tapestry Tapas Bar website.

If you prefer a free outdoor itinerary, try our Barnes and Mortlake riverside afternoon.