Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Address: Arboretum Place, Edinburgh, EH3 5NZ
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is the first of four sites that make up the Royal Botanic Gardens in Scotland. The others are located at Benmore, Logan and Dawyck. Together they form one of the world’s largest collections of living plants – representing over 15,000 different world species. The Edinburgh site was established in 1670 at St. Anne’s Yard and moved to its current location on Arboretum Place in 1820. Stretching over 70 acres, there are many features to explore.
Entry to the gardens is free, however there is a charge to visit the glasshouses. Just one mile from the centre of Edinburgh, it’s the perfect place to get away from busy city life. Although a popular attraction for locals and tourists, the Royal Botanic Garden is first and foremost an important scientific centre for the study and conservation of plants. The institution researches plants and their relationships, evolution, conservation and biology. It also serves to educate visitors of all ages, runs formal courses and accepts students on placements.
5 things to do at the Royal Botanic Garden
- Discover 100,000 plants over 70 acres of gardens.
- Explore the Rock Garden, Alpines, Woodland, Herbaceous Border and also the beautiful Victorian Glasshouses.
- Enjoy a full programme of walks, talks, exhibitions, cultural events and activities, running throughout the year.
- Visit the John Hope Gateway biodiversity and information centre with a restaurant and shop. The Gateway Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea every day.
- For a coffee, snack or more informal dining, there’s the Terrace Café self-service style canteen with outdoor seating. The East Gate Coffee Bar is also open daily for snacks and drinks.
