10 Things to Do in the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, United Kingdom
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) is a scientific centre for the study of plants, their diversity and conservation. Established in 1670, the Garden is a living collection of over 13,000 different kinds of plants, which is the second-largest in the world after Kew Gardens in London. It is also one of the most visited tourist attractions in Scotland, with over 1.2 million visitors in 2019. With its beautiful gardens, stunning glasshouses, and fascinating educational exhibits, the RBGE is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Edinburgh. Here are 10 things to do in the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.
1. Explore the Garden’s Glasshouses
The RBGE’s glasshouses are some of the most impressive in the world. They are home to a diverse range of plants, from tropical plants to desert species. The biggest and most popular glasshouse is the Temperate Palm House, which houses a variety of plants from temperate regions around the world. Other glasshouses include the Tropical Palm House, the Subtropical House, and the Arid House.
2. Visit the John Hope Gateway
The John Hope Gateway is the Garden’s visitor centre, where you can find out more about the RBGE and its history. The Gateway also houses a range of interactive exhibits, including a virtual tour of the Garden and a 3D model of the RBGE’s living collections.
3. Take a Tour of the Garden
The RBGE offers a range of tours, from guided walks to educational talks. There are also self-guided audio tours available, which take visitors around the Garden’s highlights.
4. Enjoy the Garden’s Special Events
Throughout the year, the RBGE hosts a range of special events, from concerts and art exhibitions to lectures and workshops. These events are a great way to learn more about the Garden and its plants.
5. Explore the Garden’s Trees
The RBGE is home to over 4,000 different kinds of trees, including some of the oldest and most unusual specimens in the world. The Garden’s Arboretum, which was founded in 1763, is home to many of these trees.
6. Visit the Garden’s Rock Garden
The Rock Garden was created in the early 20th century and is home to a variety of alpine and rock plants from around the world. The Rock Garden is especially beautiful in the spring, when many of the plants are in bloom.
7. Check Out the Garden’s Water Features
The RBGE has a number of water features, including a lake, a pond, and a fountain. These features provide a peaceful and tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy.
8. Visit the Garden’s Herbarium
The RBGE’s herbarium is one of the oldest and most extensive in the world. It houses over 3.5 million specimens of plants from around the world, including some of the Garden’s rarest species.
9. Explore the Garden’s Library
The RBGE’s library is home to an extensive collection of books and manuscripts related to botany, horticulture, and plant science. The library also houses a range of rare and unique books, some of which date back to the 17th century.
10. Take a Trip to the Garden’s Shop
The RBGE’s shop is a great place to find souvenirs and gifts related to the Garden and its plants. The shop also sells a range of books, seeds, and plants.
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Edinburgh. With its stunning gardens, fascinating glasshouses, and educational exhibits, the RBGE is a great place to explore and learn about plants. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax or an exciting day out, the RBGE has something for everyone.