Kew Palace is the smallest of all the royal palaces. It was originally built as a fashionable mansion for wealthy London silk merchant, Samuel Fortrey in 1631.
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Etymology. The name Kew, recorded in 1327 as Cayho, is a combination of two words: the Old French kai (landing place; quay derives from this) and Old English hoh (spur of land). The land spur is formed by the bend in the Thames.
The affluent suburb of Kew is known as the home of one of the most famous botanic gardens in the world, but it is also a popular location with families looking for culture, green space, beautiful homes and a relaxed lifestyle.
Kew Palace is the oldest building within the Gardens, serving as the summer home of King George III in the 18th century. The striking façade of the palace reflects its origins. Constructed in 1631 for a wealthy Flemish merchant, Samuel Fortrey, it was originally known as the Dutch House.
Queen Charlotte and her family enjoyed many happy summers at Kew before the King became ill. The palace had begun life as a private home and retained an intimate, domestic feel. Life there was relaxed, with the King and Queen walking in the gardens unescorted.
The maidenhair tree is one of the oldest living tree species in the world. Known as a 'living fossil', it is the sole survivor of an ancient group of trees that outlived the dinosaurs.