The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is one of the world's great botanic gardens, with over 350 years of history and one of the largest collections of living plants anywhere. Best of all, entry to the 70-acre grounds is completely free.
Founded in 1670 as a physic garden for medicinal plants, the Garden moved to its current location in Inverleith in 1820. Today it combines world-class scientific research with stunning landscaped gardens, making it equally appealing to plant enthusiasts and casual visitors seeking a peaceful escape.
The Garden's highlights include the magnificent Victorian Glasshouses, housing plants from tropical rainforests to arid deserts, and the Chinese Hillside—the largest collection of Chinese plants outside China. Throughout the seasons, something is always in bloom or offering spectacular foliage.
What to See
Victorian Temperate Palm House
PaidBritain's tallest traditional palm house, a stunning Victorian glasshouse filled with plants from temperate regions around the world.
Rock Garden
FreeOne of the world's finest rock gardens with plants from mountain regions across the globe. Best in spring when alpines bloom.
Chinese Hillside
FreeThe largest collection of wild-origin Chinese plants outside China, featuring rhododendrons, magnolias, and rare specimens.
Queen Mother's Memorial Garden
FreeFormal garden with clipped hedges and peaceful atmosphere, dedicated to Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.
Glasshouse Experience
PaidTen climate zones including tropical rainforest, arid desert, and aquatic plants. A journey through global plant environments.
Woodland Garden
FreeAncient woodland with native Scottish plants, bluebells in spring, and some of the Garden's oldest trees.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (Mar-May)
Cherry blossom, magnolias, rhododendrons, bluebells, rock garden alpines at their best.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Herbaceous borders in full bloom, roses, Queen Mother's Garden, longest opening hours.
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Spectacular foliage colours, berries, autumn crocuses, atmospheric misty mornings.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Witch hazels, winter-flowering plants, glasshouses offer warm retreat, Christmas events.
Visitor Tips
- ✓Entry to the grounds is FREE - only Glasshouses charge
- ✓Allow 2-3 hours for a full visit including Glasshouses
- ✓Spring is spectacular for blossom and rhododendrons
- ✓The café terrace has lovely views across the gardens
- ✓Download the free app for self-guided tours
- ✓The John Hope Gateway has exhibitions and a shop
- ✓Visit early morning for peaceful gardens and photography
- ✓Combine with a walk through Stockbridge afterwards
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
- Garden (Mar-Sep): 10am - 6pm
- Garden (Oct-Feb): 10am - 4pm
- Glasshouses: Check website for times
- Closed: 25 Dec, 1 Jan
Admission
- Garden grounds: Free
- Glasshouse Experience: £7-8 adults
- Under 15s: Free
- Donation suggested to support the charity
Getting There
Address: Arboretum Place, Edinburgh EH3 5NZ
Buses: 8, 23, 27 from city centre
Walk: 25 mins from Princes Street via Stockbridge
Facilities
- Gateway Restaurant & Terrace Café
- Gift shop in John Hope Gateway
- Free wheelchair/scooter loan
- Baby changing facilities
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh free?
Entry to the 70-acre grounds is completely free. The Glasshouse Experience (including the Palm House and tropical houses) has a small admission charge. Special exhibitions may also have charges.
What are the Royal Botanic Garden opening times?
The Garden is open daily: 10am-6pm (March-September) and 10am-4pm (October-February). The Glasshouses have slightly shorter hours. Closed 25 December and 1 January.
How much is the Glasshouse Experience?
Glasshouse tickets cost approximately £7-8 for adults, with concessions available. Under 15s enter free. A donation is suggested for garden entry to support the charity.
How long do you need at the Royal Botanic Garden?
Allow 2-3 hours for a good visit including the Glasshouses. You could spend longer if you want to explore every area or enjoy the cafés. A quick visit takes about 1-1.5 hours.
Is the Botanic Garden good for kids?
Yes! Children love the giant tropical plants in the glasshouses, squirrels in the grounds, and space to run around. The adventure playground is popular with families.
Can you have a picnic at the Botanic Garden?
Yes, picnics are welcome on the grassy areas. There are beautiful spots by the pond and throughout the grounds. Alternatively, the Garden has a café and restaurant.
How do I get to the Royal Botanic Garden?
Located in Inverleith, about 1 mile north of Princes Street. Take buses 8, 23, 27, or walk through Stockbridge. The Arboretum Place entrance is the main gate.
Is the Botanic Garden wheelchair accessible?
Mostly accessible with paved paths throughout. Some areas have slopes. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be borrowed free of charge from the entrance. Glasshouses are accessible.