The original 80 dragons decorating the roof were made of wood covered in thin gold leaf and were removed in 1784 during roof repairs.
The pagoda was designed by Sir William Chambers, who based the structure on his travels to East Asia.
The central staircase consists of 253 steps spanning ten stories.
During the Second World War, the pagoda was used for drop-testing materials as part of military research.
The structure's exterior utilizes 11 distinct shades of paint based on historical analysis to match its original 18th-century appearance.
The Great Pagoda, located within the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, is a 163-foot-tall octagonal structure completed in 1762 for Princess Augusta. It serves as a prominent example of 18th-century Chinoiserie architecture, featuring ten levels that provide expansive views of London. The exterior is notable for its grey-brick design and the decorative gilded dragons that adorn the roofline. Extensive restoration efforts concluded in 2018, which included the reinstallation of 80 wooden dragons originally removed in the 18th century. Visitors can ascend a central staircase to reach the upper level for panoramic vistas. The pagoda is situated within the historic core of Kew Gardens, near the Palm House and Temperate House.
From the ground level near the reflecting ponds directly in front of the pagoda to capture its full vertical height.
Climb the stairs early in the day to avoid peak heat, as the internal space can become warm during summer.
Check the official website for height or mobility restrictions before your visit, as the stairs are narrow and steep.
Bring binoculars for the upper levels to identify distant London landmarks clearly.
Attempting the climb if you have significant mobility limitations or fear of enclosed, narrow spiral staircases.
Open seasonally during warmer months; often closed during winter or during periods of adverse weather.
Maintain a quiet demeanor inside the stairwell; bulky bags are not permitted on the upper levels.
