Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Overview

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) is a 28-hectare living plant collection in Inverleith, just north of the city centre. Founded in 1670, it is one of the oldest and finest botanic gardens in the world.

Highlights

• The Glasshouses: Ten interconnected Victorian and modern glasshouses housing tropical palms, orchids, giant Amazon water lilies, and arid desert plants.
• The Rock Garden: A celebrated alpine garden with an extraordinary collection of mountain plants from every continent.
• The Inverleith House: A Georgian gallery hosting contemporary art exhibitions, set within the garden grounds.

History

Originally a physic garden established near Holyrood Abbey in 1670 to grow medicinal plants, it moved to its current Inverleith site in 1820. The garden now holds over 13,300 plant species and is a major centre for plant conservation research.

Visitor Tips

• Free Entry: The gardens are free; only the glasshouses require a ticket (£7.50).
• Best Season: Visit in spring (April–May) for the rhododendron and azalea collections at their peak.
• Duration: 1–2 hours.