Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Botanical garden · Inverleith

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Botanical garden · Inverleith

Edinburgh EH3 5NZ, United Kingdom

Highlights

A serene 70-acre oasis in Edinburgh, these manicured gardens boast a vibrant collection of plants, charming cafes, and cozy spots perfect for a peaceful escape.

Edinburgh EH3 5NZ, United Kingdom Get directions

rbge.org.uk

@onthegrid

"When visiting Scotland, a trip to the world-famous Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is unmissable. Visitors can experience an extravaganza of plants from around the world, learn about the Garden's rich and diverse Living Collection and discover a history dating back nearly 350 years. Set in over 70 acres of beautiful landscape and just one mile north of the city centre, the Garden offers superb panoramic views of the city skyline featuring Edinburgh Castle. The Botanics, as the Garden is affectionately known locally, is breathtaking at any time of year." - CRE-ATE

On the Grid : Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

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@afar

"A distant relative of London’s more famous Kew Gardens, Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Gardens—founded in 1670 to grow medicinal flora—is no less impressive, with everything from an arboretum and rock garden to a Chinese hillside, biodiversity area, and collection of glasshouses filled with tropical plants. Here, visitors will find more than 13,500 species across 70 acres, from high alpine trees and rhododendrons to dwarf daffodils, snowdrops, and crocuses. Wander the fragrant grounds, then head to the Demonstration Garden, where you can learn about growing your own food."

The Essential Guide to Edinburgh

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Shamma Alnuaimi

Google

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the city. The variety of plants and flowers is impressive, and the gardens are meticulously maintained. It's a great place for a leisurely walk, with plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the surroundings. The glasshouses are a highlight, showcasing exotic plants from around the world. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to answer questions. Perfect for nature lovers and families alike. Highly recommend spending a few hours here to relax and take in the beauty!

M Lindstrom

Google

My favorite trees are from the Himalayas—one with a silver hue and the other with a copper glow. They shimmer beautifully under the sunlight, creating a mesmerizing sight. The cafe is nice. The food looks great but tastes average. Great place for stress free walking.

Shelley C

Google

I had a wonderful time wandering around this garden. The Rock Garden and Chinese Hillside were my favourite areas. The glasshouse is currently closed. There was a nice souvenir shop and a cafe. There were, also, toilets which were in good condition. It was free to enter, though you are asked to make a donation to help with the running costs. Staff were nice and happy to chat about the plants. The garden has paths that are accessible to people who use a wheelchair. There are disabled toilets on the premises. You can call in advance to book a wheelchair. There is lots of seating around the garden.

Iola Ryland

Google

Lovely, peaceful, and calming day out - pleasantly surprised to find out it’s free entry as well. The rocky displays and water features are beautiful, and even on a full grey day it was lovely to walk around and explore the garden.

Ahmed Mahmood

Google

Pretty garden with different themes. Better to visit in spring or during summers when plants are at bloom. Its also free to enter. The parking is paid street parking (coins or app). Better to go on sunny days.

Keane Wee

Google

A simple but yet such beautiful garden that offers a peaceful piece of heaven with its cozy and nature filled atmosphere away from the busy and bustling city of Edinburgh. The grounds are very well maintained and taken care of with its wide diverse collection of plants and flowers. The cafe there is not too bad as well - I recommend the soup of the day and hot chocolate; cozy and warm feeling with the winter weather!

Fedina Fedina

Google

The displays at the Royal Botanic Garden are truly amazing. I was impressed by how well-maintained, tidy, and spotlessly clean the gardens are. It's evident that great attention to detail is a priority here. I highly recommend visiting these gardens if you're staying in Edinburgh. Admission is free but you can donate if you want.

Nikki Rohde (OutThisDoor)

Google

Quiet, spacious natural park perfect for getting away from the crowds. We were able to walk here from our hotel at Grassmarket and got to see some Edinburgh neighborhoods too. Lots blooming in May especially the rhododendrons. The cafe was excellent. We had scones and sandwiches outside. Lots of seating inside and out or take it to go for a picnic. Visitor Center featured and excellent shop with a wide variety of price points for garden decor and plants.