- Free with standard admission, the summer event brings the bestselling Tom Gates books and TV series to life through creativity, music and outdoor exploration
- Families can enjoy live DogZombies performances, hands-on craft workshops, giant collaborative doodles and an interactive tree trail
- Special member-exclusive experiences include screenings of The Brilliant World of Tom Gates and a live event with creator Liz Pichon
- Part of Kew’s summer programme, the experience combines storytelling, nature and play alongside Kew’s popular family attractions
- Designed for children of all ages, the experience blends hands-on creativity with nature-inspired discovery across Kew Gardens
Doodling, live music, storytelling and outdoor exploration come together in a summer of creativity and fun at Kew Gardens
Step into the wonderfully wacky world of Tom Gates at Kew Gardens with Tom Gates EPIC Adventure – a brand-new interactive experience packed with creativity, music, puzzles and outdoor discovery.
18 July to 31 August 2026, the free drop-in event – with standard entry to Kew Gardens – is inspired by the global bestselling Tom Gates books and hit TV series, both created by Liz Pichon, and promises a doodletastic day out in nature for children and families.
Create, roam and play through an activity hub bursting with hands-on crafts, giant collaborative doodles, live musical performances and a code-cracking trail – all inspired by the adventures of Tom Gates and his delightfully zany friends and family.
All activities will take place next to the Great Lawn, and event highlights include:
- DogZombies Live on Stage!
Daily performance times:
10.30am, 1.00pm and 4.00pm
- Super Make and Do Craft Tent
Hands-on crafting workshops. Led by Kew teachers, these drop-in sessions offer plenty of opportunities to make something special to take home.
Daily drop-in session times:
10.00am – 12.30pm and 1.30pm – 4.30pm - Mega Doodle Wall
Families can grab markers and let their imaginations run wild by adding drawings, colouring giant illustrations and discovering hidden details in an ever-growing collaborative artwork installation.
Available throughout the day - Totally Terrific Trees Trail
Children self-guided adventure to discover five trees, uncover fun facts and collect symbols to crack a secret code. Visitors are encouraged to pick up an activity guide on arrival, featuring a handy map for the trees trail.
Available throughout the day
Kew Members enjoy exclusive Sunday screenings of TheBrilliant World of Tom Gates in the Princess of Wales Conservatory Film Room at 11am, 12pm, 1pm and 2pm throughout the event, which must be pre-booked in advance.
On Saturday 1 August, Kew Members can join Liz Pichon in the School Lunch Tents for a special ticketed event featuring storytelling, doodling and creative activities inspired by the bestselling series. Visitors will help Liz create a Monster Plant Doodle and learn some of her favourite doodling tips and tricks. Following the session, Liz will sign copies of the brand-new paperback Tom Gates: Pesky Pets and Parties and other titles within the Kew Shop, with the book signing opening to non-members from 12.30pm.
Visitors are encouraged to pick up an activity guide on arrival, featuring a handy map for the Totally Terrific Trees Trail and additional creative activities to enjoy at home. The Family Kitchen & Shop located near the Children’s Garden will have a selection of items including Tom Gates branded water bottles, popular books from the series and a costume available.
Explore Kew Gardens’ popular attractions including the Children’s Garden, Treetop Walkway and the Henry Moore: Monumental Nature Family Trail.
Great British Summer Savings initiative. Until 1 September 2026, tickets booked will carry only 5% VAT, and VAT on children’s food options served in the Family Kitchen & Shop, Botanical Brasserie and Pavilion Bar & Grill will also be reduced.
For more details and ticket information, visit: Tom Gates EPIC Adventure | Kew