2020 marked the bicentenary of the death of George III, the monarch most strongly associated with Kew. It was here that the young George spent much of his childhood, learning the art of kingship under the tutelage of some of the most celebrated theologians, architects and musicians of the day.
In later life, George was also treated at Kew for periods of mental and physical ill health resulting in his life and achievements being almost entirely eclipsed by the story of his still poorly understood 'madness'.
Celebrating the achievements of this remarkable King — and exploring his often cruel treatment at the hands of his doctors at Kew — a new display for 2021 considered the real man behind the much-peddled myth.
When
04 June - 19 September 2021
Exhibition information
This exhibition is closed.
Bringing together objects which revealed his diverse interests, from his world-famous library to his fascination with the natural world, the exhibition aimed to challenge what we think we know about this complex and brilliant man.
Among the items on display were notes made by George's doctors and instructions for the King's care written by his daughter, Princess Mary (pictured here).
These were contrasted with examples of the exquisite artworks he acquired for the Royal Collection and even a concert programme in his own hand, revealing his lesser-known passion for the arts.
How people think and talk about mental health today
As part of Historic Royal Palaces' plans to commemorate the life of George III, up to 10 objects submitted by members of the public formed a special display on the top floor of Kew Palace, as a means for inspiring thought, discussion and reflection on how we think and talk about mental health today. This is evermore important after the COVID pandemic which has had such a wide impact on everyone.
Images:
King George III's waistcoat, 1819. This waistcoat was probably one of the last items of clothing the King wore before his death in January 1820.
Shirt worn by King George III detail, c1810.
Our mental health journeys told in 10 objects
10 objects submitted by members of the public formed a special display on the top floor of Kew Palace.
As part of the exhibition, the contributors kindly told their stories about the objects in these short films.
EXPLORE WHAT'S ON
- Things to see
- Tours and talks
The Great Pagoda
See The Great Pagoda at Kew Palace, now returned to its 18th-century splendour.
- Open
- 11:00 - 16:00
- Kew Palace
- Separate ticket
- Things to see
The Royal Kitchens
Get an insight into life 'below stairs' at Kew Palace in the Royal Kitchens, preserved as they were in 1818 during the reign of George III.
- Open
- 11:00 - 16:00
- Kew Palace
- Included in Kew Gardens admission
- Tours and talks
Evening Curator Talks
Join Polly Putnam and Lee Prosser in our curator talks at Kew Palace and dive deep into the captivating history of the palace with these industry experts.
- July - September
- 18:15 - 20:00
- Kew Palace
- Separate ticket (advance booking required)
BROWSE MORE HISTORY AND STORIES
George III, the Complex King
Dutiful, intelligent and cultured, but cruelly labelled ‘mad’
The story of Kew Palace
Britain's smallest royal palace and George III's private retreat
The royal kitchens at Kew
The kitchens have survived, practically untouched
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