Picnic, performance and culture in the heart of Kew Gardens

In Conversation at Kew Gardens, an exciting new series of ‘picnic and performance’ events…

Pack a picnic and head to Kew Gardens in London this September for a series of live, outdoor events, hosted by some of the UK’s favourite media and featuring well-known TV faces.

Richard Osman, Mary Beard, Adam Frost and John Craven are just some of the household names that will be In Conversation at Kew Gardens from 4-7th September. With captivating chat, laughter and lively debate, these unique events are sure to offer plenty of memorable moments. Choose from lunchtime or afternoon performances and enjoy all that Kew Gardens has to offer, included in the ticket price.

Radio Times magazine kicks the series off with a day of telly chat, book banter and quizzing (4 September). For the lunchtime session, Richard Osman joins Radio Times editor, Tom Loxley, and columnist and podcaster, Caroline Frost, to discuss his career highlights, from Cambridge University to hit TV game show creator and best-selling author. The presenter, novelist and comedian shares TV talk, book inspiration and the secrets to a good (literary) murder.

The Temperate House. Kew Gardens

In the afternoon, fellow Pointless host, presenter, actor and comedian, Alexander Armstrong, joins the action as the pair share their top TV quiz and game show moments with Radio Times’ Tom Loxley. Then it’s time for some audience participation as Osman and Armstrong turn quizmasters, bringing ‘The Best Quiz Ever’ to life on the Kew Gardens stage. Fun, fast, fiendishly clever questions are a given so bring your quizzing A-game, a phone or tablet and put your wits to the test.

Richard Osman:

“I’m delighted to be heading to glorious Kew Gardens this September for such a special event. Expect behind-the-scenes stories from my life as a presenter, producer and comedian with telly gossip, anecdotes and a bit of all-round television tomfoolery. I’ll also be joined by my partner-in-crime (quiz-based, of course) to bring The Best Quiz Ever to life on stage. It’s set to be an unforgettable day of TV chat, crime capers and top-notch quizzing in beautiful surroundings.”

On Friday 5 September, HistoryExtra presents Ancient Rome: Republic to Empire. Historian Tom Holland and Classicist Professor Mary Beard are in conversation with HistoryExtra podcast editor, Ellie Cawthorne. With their signature storytelling flair, the learned pair will bring ancient history to life. From Caesar’s dramatic power plays to scandalous intrigue, take a deep dive into the politics, battles, and betrayals that shaped the Roman Empire.

On Saturday 6 September, BBC Gardeners’ World Live welcomes Adam Frost and Frances Tophill for a day of green-fingered inspiration and plant-based chat. Presenter and keen gardener, Nicki Chapman, and BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine editor, Kevin Smith, will be harvesting horticultural highlights, and digging deep for behind-the-scenes gems from the much-loved BBC2 gardening show. Expect practical advice and plenty of fun, set amongst Kew Gardens’ perfect surroundings.

Kew Gardens, London

On Sunday 7 September, join BBC Countryfile presenters, Adam Henson, Anita Rani, John Craven and Matt Baker as they celebrate the heart of rural Britain. Hosted by Anita Rani, the team share the lowdown on life behind the Countryfile cameras, best and worst days on location and the unpredictability of TV, countryside and the weather, including unforgettable moments in the field and the stories that left a lasting impression.

The event is produced by Immediate Live, organiser of consumer events including BBC Gardeners’ World Live, Hampton Court Food Festival, Good Food Show and London Art Fair. 

Tickets for In Conversation at Kew Gardens, event sponsored by Inspired Villages, are on sale now at https://www.inconversationlive.co.uk/. Events take place at Kew Gardens, next to the Pavilion Bar & Grill. There are two events per day, gates open at 11.30am and 4pm. Premium tickets (£55/£53 concessions) offer prime viewing nearest the stage. Bring a picnic and blanket and enjoy the atmosphere up close with this classic, relaxed lawn experience.

Set slightly further back but still with great views, Standard ticket holders (£47/£38 concessions) have the option to bring picnic blankets or camping chairs. All In Conversation tickets include entry to Kew Gardens from 10am-7pm. Kew Gardens members receive a 20% discount on tickets.