Visitor numbers to Kew Gardens have dropped by a third in the last year despite remaining open to the public since June.

But Director of Horticulture, Richard Barley says people have been coming to the gardens and enjoying the chance to reconnect with nature.

As the weather improves and restrictions are eased, more people are expected to enjoy the gardens.

Mr Barley said: "Visitor numbers have been down by about a third on the previous year but that said what we have seen is many people wishing to get out into the gardens and I guess reconnect with nature.

"Kew has been able to be open albeit with some restrictions to catering and glass houses.

"But people have been coming, just to be able to see the plants and we can see by the looks on our visitors' faces that they enjoy being reconnected with nature."

You can follow us on FACEBOOK and TWITTER