Founded as a 'Physic Garden' by the Earl of Danby in 1621, "with a view especially to the Faculty of Medicine", the Botanic Garden (tel 01865 286690) is the oldest institution of its kind in the country. The Gateway, designed by Nicholas Stone, incorporates statues of Charles I & II.

The gardens are open daily - apart from on Christmas Day and Good Friday - from 9am - 4.30pm during Jan, Feb, Nov and Dec (entry fees apply on weekends, but entry on weekdays is by donation); 9am-5pm during Mar, Apr, Sept, Oct and 9am - 6pm from May - Aug. The glasshouses are open from 10am until half an hour before closing time. Admission is free for accompanied children in full time education and for disabled visitors and carers. It's £3 for an adult day ticket, £2.50 for concessions and £10 for a year pass. Guided tours can be arranged by writing in advance.

You can also become a Friend of the Botanic Gardens, with free access to this and other gardens and to a variety of special lectures and events, for between £25 (annual single) and £500 (life single).