Full of Spice

We don’t think twice about the peppermill on our dining table or the vanilla in our ice-cream, but the power of some plants to colour, flavour and preserve, makes them worth more than their weight in gold.

This summer, Kew will be Full of Spice as it explores the botanical origins of these mystical goods.

What to expect
Come face-to-face with some of our most popular spices, take part in the Strictly Spice Dance-off or sample a variety of delicious breads in The Dough Kitchen (various dates, more information below).

Get hands on
Full of Spice mocked up image of rickshaw ride
There will be a series of talks, performances and workshops in the amazing Spice Exchange, an architectural structure that has been built especially for the festival, plus Rangoli folk art workshops each weekend.

Besides all of this, you can consult the Spice Mix Supercomputer, immerse yourself in one of the giant spice inflatables and take a ride around the gardens in one of our special spicy Rickshaws (advance booking only, more information below).

Botanical cocktails
No summer festival is complete without a cocktail and so each weekend during the festival, you can enjoy a spiced No.3 gin cocktail at our pop-up botanical bar (cash only bar).