£5 million grant towards Kew’s Palm House renovation project

The Julia Rausing Trust is delighted to announce a £5 million grant to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, towards its Palm House renovation project. This is the largest philanthropic gift to date for the project and one of the most significant single donations in Kew’s history.

This donation will enable the vital renovation of Kew’s historic Waterlily House, including transforming the heating system to realise the ambition of net-zero. The funding will also contribute to the wider Palm House renovation project, supporting Kew’s long-term vision to safeguard and revitalise one of the most iconic glasshouses in the world.

“We are incredibly grateful to The Julia Rausing Trust for this visionary gift and becoming an early supporter.” said Richard Deverell, Director, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. “It will not only help us protect the extraordinary heritage of the Waterlily House but might inspire others to consider donating to help us renovate these iconic buildings.”

Simon Fourmy, Chief Executive, The Julia Rausing Trust, said “The renovation of the Waterlily House, together with the wider Palm House project, is an important initiative that will preserve these iconic structures and their world-famous ecosystems.

“Kew’s work as a global leader in botanical science and horticulture is well known, and The Julia Rausing Trust is proud to be an early supporter of this project. We hope others will join us in supporting Kew with this important fundraising campaign.”

Photo credit: Ines Stuart-Davidson, Board of Trustees, RBG Kew

27th August 2025