Museums & Attractions

Bringing together the most significant collection of Henry Moore’s work ever to be enjoyed in the capital, Moore at Kew is a wonderful organic context for his large-scale sculptures.

Reclining figures, mother-and-child compositions and abstract forms all feature, now given a fresh backdrop as Kew Gardens’ colourful flowers burst into springtime bloom. And as nights get milder, the final weekend of this six-month exhibition brings Moore Late Nights, a chance to see 20 of the 28 pieces illuminated when the Gardens reopen at 7pm for special evening viewings.

You have Late Nights on March 28 and 29, how did that come about?
We wanted to try this after the incredible response to the night-time viewings of the Chihuly Gardens of Glass in 2005.

The Martin family from Spain: ‘We didn’t expect to see the Moore exhibition on our visit today, but it’s very interesting, especially in this setting. The Gardens are perfect for it'

How does the experience differ at night?
In two main ways. It’s spectacular to see the pieces themselves; it’s like they are floating in the darkness. Plus it’s rare to get the chance to come into Kew Gardens at night. The trees are lit up and it’s so romantic.

Has the success of Moore at Kew surprised you?
We expected that some people who come to Kew might not be so impressed because they’re not there to see ‘art’, but it has been universally successful. I can’t imagine the Gardens without them now.

Do you think the seasons played their part?
We were fortunate with some glorious weather, and every single month has seen an increase in visitors. When Moore at Kew opened last September we had fabulous greenery, and then as the trees became bare there were new vistas; from the Orangery you could see five or six pieces while standing in one spot. It’s made me think differently about Kew. It’s not just about colour and flowers, but about this historic landscape.

What is your favourite piece?
I like the larger ones. Any visitor cannot fail to be hit by their scale. I love 'Large Upright Internal/External Form', and 'Double Oval' at the Orangery – when the sun shines it looks perfect there.

Kew Gardens
020 8332 5655. Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AB. Kew Gardens/Kew Bridge tube or Kew Gardens rail. Daily 9.30am-5.30pm (Gardens close 7.30pm on Mar 30). Gardens £12.25, concs £10.25, children under 17 (accompanied by an adult) free. Moore Late Nights Mar 28, 29; 7-10pm. £10, concs £7, children under 17 free. Ends Mar 30.

Moore Late Nights, March 28-29
Don’t miss out, book online now at www.kew.org or phone See Tickets on 0871 220 0260. Another 500 tickets will also be issued on the night, on a first come, first served basis.