30-07-2025
The secret Edinburgh green oasis to escape the crowds
Yet just a short walk from the fire eaters, jugglers and comedians on soap boxes who vie for the attention of the crowds, lies an urban Eden.
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a green oasis in the centre of Scotland's capital city. It covers 70 plant-filled acres, with woods, wide lawns and green-fringed ponds. The trees are filled with birdsong and the badgers who live in setts, deep beneath the canopy, come out to roam around at night when the last of the visitors has gone.
From its vast rock garden to the Chinese hillside, filled with plants from gorges and mountains across Asia, the Botanics is a treasure trove of living material from around the world. There are huge herbaceous borders, Alpine houses containing flowers collected at high altitude, wetland areas, dense shrubberies and vegetable plots where community groups can learn about growing food.
Redwood grove in upper woodland (Image: LYNSEY WILSON_RBGE)
The place is steeped in tranquility and beauty, but this is more than just a favourite green space for visitors and local residents. The RBGE is a scientific institution dedicated to the conservation and understanding of plants and it works with similar organisations around the globe, helping to conserve threatened species and tracking markers of climate change.
The RBGE has always had a scientific purpose. It was founded in 1670 as a physic garden growing plants for doctors and medical students and it moved several times before, in 1820, moving to its present site in Inverleith where it set up laboratories and herbariums and created a palm house and glass houses to protect tender specimens.
Those sheltered spaces are under refurbishment at the moment as part of the Edinburgh Biomes Project, which will protect the garden's future.
Meanwhile the Botanics also runs a busy programme of art exhibitions, guided tours, children' s activities and events. It hosts online courses on subjects including garden design and it also has a renowned education programme, training the next generation of horticulturists who will care for the planet and all that grows on it.
Details
The RBGE is situated off Ferry Road, in the Canonmills areas of Edinburgh. It has entrances on both Inverleith Row and Arboretum Place and both are served by Lothian Buses.
Most of the garden is fully accessible and there are wheelchairs and mobility scooters for visitors to use.
Opening times: 10am - 5pm
Garden entry is free
In association with Discover Scottish Gardens.
