Everything you need to know about the Downton Abbey exhibition
- Dates: 22 September to 1 October 2025
- Opening times: 10am to 7pm daily – last entry 6pm
- Location: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (Richmond, TW9, 3AB)
- Tickets: Entry is included in the standard ticket; advance booking recommended
Step into the world of Downton Abbey as Kew Gardens unveils a brand-new floral exhibition inspired by the iconic period drama. Open for just ten days, a limited number of lucky visitors can explore floral artistry that recreates the grandeur of the Crawley family’s world.
What is the Downton Abbey exhibition at Kew Gardens?
Kew Gardens has partnered with Fleurs de Villes, the internationally renowned creators of fresh-flower artistry, to present a spectacular floral exhibition inspired by the world of Downton Abbey.
This is the first time Kew has hosted a fresh-flower show of this kind and scale – a landmark collaboration coinciding with the release of the third film, Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale. Fleurs de Villes has staged more than 130 floral shows around the world, from Vancouver to Boston, but this marks their first London showcase since 2018.
Co-founder Karen Marshall calls their creations “the Cirque du Soleil of flowers” - perishable art that is immersive, theatrical and utterly joyful - and this exhibition is no exception.
What will I see at Downton Abbey: The Floral Exhibition?
If there were ever a perfect setting for such a floral spectacle, Kew Gardens is it. On a crisp autumn morning, with blue skies above, the gardens are as lush as ever. Turning a corner through the gardens, you’re met with a whimsical scene: a floral boat drifting upon the water, its passengers fashioned entirely from blooms, while geese paddle nearby. A fitting prelude to what lies ahead.
As you step inside the marquee, the heady fragrance of thousands of fresh flowers envelopes you. Lord and Lady Grantham are the first to greet you, standing proudly together and setting the tone for the grandeur to come. Just beyond, the Dowager Countess appears in exquisite detail, recreated from head to toe in flowers. With such poise, it’s easy to imagine her delivering one of her iconic sharp one-liners. This fan-favourite piece proved so popular it was even taken to the premiere after-party – you can only imagine the photos! Together, they lead you into a sweeping corridor of floral mannequins that bring the entire cast of characters to life.
Have your say: Grab a voting slip from the stand at the entrance to choose your favourite installation. You’ll be entered into a draw to win a month’s worth of flowers, while the winning florist also receives a prize – a double celebration of creativity (winner announced 2 October).
As you wander through the space there’s a clever “upstairs/downstairs” layout, along with interactive displays and even selfie stations. I couldn’t resist snapping a photo by the afternoon tea table, delicately holding the floral umbrella and fan (with slight fear I might break them!).
Some installations are dramatic, like Thomas Barrow’s dark creation entwined with poison ivy, reflecting the complexity of the infamous character. Lady Sybil Crawley’s piece (my personal favourite) is a celebratory explosion of colour, her head adorned with peacock-blue blooms of anemones, orchids, and cornflowers that capture her rebellious, free-spirited nature.
Nearby, Matthew Crawley stands in a sea of crimson roses, his scarlet British Army dinner jacket reimagined in an array of petals. A striking tribute to his honour, and enduring love story with Lady Mary, whose mannequin dons a dazzling new costume from the latest film. Further along, Anna Bates appears in a tender tableau at the County Show, her gown crafted from lamb’s ear and succulents, her silver brunia coat and delicate skeleton-leaf handbag symbolising quiet resilience. Beside her, little Johnnie’s rabbit costume made of roses and amaranth adds charm and warmth.
Every detail invites you to look closer: intricate beadwork made from seeds, delicate floral curls forming hairstyles, and clever watering systems hidden beneath the mannequins to keep everything fresh. Some displays are refreshed every two days, while others are designed to bloom over time – meaning every visitor gets a perfectly vibrant experience.
Who created the Downton Abbey floral displays?
The creative journey began almost a year ago, with London-based florists working closely to source the perfect blooms and textures. The result is a spectacular mix of Edwardian elegance and floral fantasy.
“We treat florists as artists, not suppliers,” Karen tells me when we chat in the demonstration room. “Flowers mark every moment of life, from birth to death. People have a deep connection to them, sometimes without even realising it. In a world of division, flowers unite us – this is a happy, joyful space for people to escape and enjoy.”
Here, creations are celebrated for both their beauty and craftsmanship. Plaques beside each mannequin share the story and inspiration behind the piece, encouraging visitors to slow down and appreciate both the artistry and the narrative connection to Downton Abbey.
Demonstrations and live displays
The exhibition includes daily free demonstrations and talks, from flower arranging to Downton-inspired tablescapes. As we chat, Karen gestures to the rows of chairs where each visitor will find a packet of poppy seeds to take home, a small but lovely touch that extends the experience beyond the gardens.
A highlight of the programme is set for Tuesday 30 September, when Lady Carnarvon, the real-life Countess of Highclere Castle (the setting for Downton Abbey), will give a special presentation – an unmissable opportunity for superfans.
Book your Tuesday tickets for Lady Carnarvon's presentation
Is food and drink available at the exhibition?
After taking in the exhibition, you can enjoy a coffee, glass of wine, or pastry from the café inside the marquee. For a more indulgent treat, why not book an afternoon tea in the glass-roofed Orangery, a picture-perfect setting filled with trees and natural light - just the thing for a Downton-style outing.
Why you shouldn't miss it
Whether you’re a dedicated Downton Abbey fan, a lover of floral design, or simply looking for a unique day out, this exhibition is one of the most memorable experiences Kew has ever staged.
It’s also excellent value for money, with your ticket including full access to the rest of Kew Gardens and its other exhibitions – such as Material World in the Temperate House – making it the perfect excuse to spend a whole day exploring.
When is the Kew Gardens Downton Abbey exhibition
The exhibition runs from 22 September until 1 October 2025.
How to book tickets for Downton Abbey at Kew Gardens
Tickets for the Kew Gardens Downton Abbey exhibition start from £20.
Tickets are included in the standard Kew Gardens entry but must be booked in advance, so be sure to reserve your time slot early!
Special access is available for Kew Gardens members. Please see the official Kew Gardens website for more details.
Accessibility at Kew Gardens Downton Abbey exhibition
Step-free access and accessible toilets are available across Kew Gardens including the exhibition.
For full information of accessibility, please check the official website.
Plan your visit
- Closest tube station: Kew Gardens (District line and Overground)
- Food and drink: Choose to dine in the on-site cafe area, book a themed afternoon tea in the Kew Gardens orangery or choose from one of several Kew Gardens dining locations.
- Other attractions: Don’t miss the latest exhibition to arrive at Temperate House – Material World is currently showing until 2 November. Book ahead for Halloween at Kew, and the ever-popular Christmas at Kew.