Founded as a 'Physic Garden' by the Earl of Danby in 1621, "with a view especially to the Faculty of Medicine", the Botanic Garden (telephone 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 (Nov - Feb); 9am-5pm (Mar, Apr, Sept, Oct) and 9am - 6pm (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 £125 a year.


Click image to enlarge and read about the Dragon of the Gardens.