Kew Gardens will remain open over the upcoming 27-day lockdown.

The news has delighted its fans and follows calls from Richmond charities and councillors to keep the gardens open for residents' wellbeing.

There are also financial considerations. In the spring lockdown, Kew was forced to close for 70 days and it projected to lose £15 million in revenue this year. In July the world-renowned botanical gardens appealed for the public's help to stem the losses.

Cllr Piers Allen said: "If elite sports can continue, and garden centres remain open, why stipulate in Nov 5 guidelines that Botanic Gardens should close?

"We all need a dose of nature from all of our parks."

Read more: Threat to Kew Gardens' future as £15million black hole opens

His fellow Lib Dem, Cllr Charlotta Campanale said: "As a Kew Ward cllr, I'd also make the plea for RBG to remain open; local residents need access too (though pay membership just the same).

"Last closure had significant effect on local residents health and well-being; many being elderly. Our local outdoor space."

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The charity Richmond Good Neighbours asked our MP Sarah Olney: "Could you push the government to keep @kewgardens and other similar open spaces across the country to stay open for the mental well-being of all visitors during second lockdown?#NationalLockdown."

Sarah said she had raised it with "several govt ministers and I've been promised that they will review the decision".

Changes, entry cost and how to book

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew announced that it would remain open over the November 5 to December 2 lockdown, but all indoor buildings will be shut.

Prices have been cut to £10 for an adult, down from £13.50.

Kew Gardens and Wakehurst are open, giving you a chance to enjoy our magnificent gardens during these difficult times.

With acres of green space, thousands of plants and secret corners, you can roam all day in our botanic gardens.

While we are excited to welcome you, there are some measures in place to protect you.

To manage the number of visitors, we have established prebooked entry time slots for everyone.

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You must book your time slot online before you visit, otherwise, unfortunately, you will be turned away, even if you're a member.

From November 5, our glasshouse, restaurants, shops and buildings will be closed in line with government guidance. Toilets are open and are screened regularly.

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