Kew Gardens

Take a break from the chaos of city life and immerse yourself in 300 acres of trees and flowers. Enjoy a panoramic view from the pagoda tower or examine a 300-year-old sweet chestnut tree. You can experience these things and more by taking the official virtual tour of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, near London. The Web site tour includes over forty 360-degree panoramas, thirty mini-movies, viewpoint narrations, and maps, as well as full text for the hearing-impaired.

Since the 18th century, the Botanic Gardens of Kew has participated in scientific and economic botanic exchanges throughout the world, which is one reason its collections are so extensive. The landscape design and architectural features of the gardens reflect artistic influences from both Europe and abroad.

How did the cinnamon plant become a political issue in the British West Indies? An exhibition at Kew Gardens discusses those crops The Royal Society for the Advancement of the Arts (RSA) encouraged for cultivation during the 18th century.