Oxford Botanic Garden

Founded in 1621, the Oxford Botanic Garden is the UK’s oldest botanic garden and occupies a world-class position in terms of its history and academic location.

Its mission is to share the scientific wonder and importance of plants with the world. Over the past four centuries the Garden has been committed to educating as many people as possible about the importance of plants, to help conserve plants around the world, and to support teaching and research within the University and beyond.

Visit inspiring herbaceous borders, glasshouses that take you around the World or simply relax in the oldest Botanic Garden in Britain. The Botanic Garden is the most compact, yet diverse collection of plants in the World right in the heart of the city centre and is open throughout the year for you to visit and enjoy.

Glasshouses

The Botanic Gardens include seven display glasshouses which create a range of climatic conditions, cultivating plants from around the world. Visitors find themselves travelling the globe, as they pass from tropical jungle and oozing swamp to desert and alpine environments.

Walled Garden

The Walled Garden dates back to the Oxford Botanic Garden’s foundation in 1621 and is the Garden’s oldest section. The formal taxonomic beds are being reconfigured to reflect their genetic relatedness, using the most modern and objective classification system called APG (Angiosperm Phylogeny Group).  Discover more about the genetic diversity of flowering plants against the historic backdrop of 17th century walls and the monumental Danby Gate.

Lower Garden

The Lower Garden holds ornamental collections including the Rock Garden, which has many Mediterranean species, the Gin Border in which plants commonly used in the production of gin are grown, the Herbaceous Border, Plants That Changed the World beds, and the Merton Border. The Lower Garden is also adjacent to Christ Church Meadow and bordered by the river Cherwell, and provides a tranquil space perfect for picnics. Gardeners will find inspiration in the colourful and dramatic plantings.

Pop-up Café

From April to September, a pop-up café will be at the Botanic Garden, near the River Cherwell. The café serve delicious coffees, teas, cakes and ice cream. Hot drinks include a full range of coffee and teas as well as hot chocolate and chai lattes.

What’s On at Botanic Garden

Botanic Garden offer a vibrant programme of talks, walks and tours covering science, gardening and practical horticultural courses. From orchid safaris to successful staking, and a range of exciting talks, there really is something for everyone.

Visit the official website for a full schedule of events