Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
A botanic garden founded in 1670, known for its rhododendrons, Chinese plant collections and views over the city skyline.
This is the second-oldest botanic garden in Britain, covering about 28 hectares to the north of the New Town, in Inverleith. The garden is famous for its rhododendron collection. Many plants introduced from Yunnan and other parts of China by botanists such as Frank Kingdon-Ward and George Forrest can still be seen here. The rock garden, the Chinese hillside garden and the Scottish Highlands plant area are all outstanding, and from higher points in the garden you can look out over the castle skyline. The outdoor grounds are free, but the glasshouses charge admission. The glasshouses were under renovation in the late 2020s, so please check the official website. You can walk here from Stockbridge along the Water of Leith Walkway.
Opening hours
About 10:00–18:00 (closes at 16:00 in winter; check official website)
Nearby sights
- Stockbridge & Circus Lane
- Dean Village
- Princes Street Gardens
- Edinburgh Castle
- Scottish National Gallery
- Scott Monument
- Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
- The Scotch Whisky Experience