Kew Gardens bloom

Since the spring equinox (March 20th), the weather has been unpredictable at best. Despite the gray skies and April Arctic blasts, the mild weather has flowers blooming four weeks earlier than usual. There is no better place to visit than Kew Gardens, a World Heritage Site and one of London's top attractions that is home to over 50,000 plants.

Kew is offering a free Spring awakening walking tour that highlights the best blossoms and runs daily at 12:30 and 2 pm until April 30th. Register with the guide at Victoria Plaza 15 minutes before the tour starts (maximum capacity 15 people).

Note : The Temperate House will be closed until May 1st to install artworks for an upcoming exhibition
www.kew.org ✆ +44 2083 325655
Kew, Richmond TW9 3AE

Once you get your fill of flowers (allow between 3-4 hours), exit the Victoria Gate and walk 5 minutes to The Original Maids of Honour, a tea room and bakery. Afternoon tea starts at £24.50 and can be booked beginning at 10 am (prosecco and champagne add-on beginning at 11 am). Their High Tea comes with tea or coffee (unlimited refills), traditional tea sandwiches (5 quarters), two scones with clotted cream and choice of patisserie from their case or their famous Maids of Honour Tart.

It is believed that Henry VIII came across Anne Boleyn and her Maids of Honour (young ladies who attend the Queen) eating cakes. The story goes that he liked them so much that he put the recipe under lock and key at Richmond Palace. Maids of Honours are similar to Portuguese custard tarts, but are lighter, crispier and melt in your mouth. To this day, this bakery is the only one that makes them. www.theoriginalmaidsofhonour.co.uk ✆ +44 2089 402752
288 Kew Road, Kew Gardens TW9 3DU

It is hard to imagine a better day out to usher spring in!