Event Booking FAQ
Have you changed your event booking process?
Yes. We no longer use the University’s Online Store. All Friends events are now bookable via the Garden’s new ticketing website: https://tickets.botanic.cam.ac.uk/#login
When do tickets go on sale?
Tickets for Friends events typically go on sale two weeks after the triannual newsletter is delivered, approximately at the end of January, May and September.
Summer 2026 events go on sale on Monday 8 June 2026 at 10am.
How do I log in for the first time?
- Visit: https://tickets.botanic.cam.ac.uk/#login
- Enter your registered email address
- Click “Forgotten Your Password?”
- Reset your password (this must include uppercase and lowercase letters, at least one number, and a special character, e.g. AbC&1234!)
- Once logged in, browse Friends events here:
https://tickets.botanic.cam.ac.uk/#category_9
I logged in, but it says I do not have a Friends membership
Please make sure you are using the email address you originally registered with when joining the Friends. This is the same email address we use to send your membership renewal reminders.
If you’re unsure which email you used, please check previous emails from us.
If you did not provide an email address when you joined, you will not be able to book online. Please contact us or visit the Ticket Office, where staff can add an email address to your account.
Can I buy tickets in person at the Ticket Office?
Yes. However, we recommend booking online where possible. Some events have limited capacity and can sell out within minutes of going on sale.
If you do purchase in person, please ensure your account includes a valid email address so we can send you important event information.
Can I bring a non-member guest to events?
Many events are exclusive to Friends.
For larger events (such as the Annual Lecture or coach trips), guest tickets may be released at a later date once Friends have had the first opportunity to book.
Guest tickets may include an optional additional donation of £5–£10.
My organisation has a Corporate Friends membership – can I attend events
Yes. You can:
– Ask your organisation’s administrator to book tickets through the Corporate Friends account, or
– Purchase tickets in person at the Ticket Office by showing your Corporate Friends card and company ID
Please note that all booking confirmations and event information will be sent to your organisation’s administrator rather than directly to you.
How quickly do events sell out?
Small-capacity events (such as tours) can sell out within minutes. Larger events (such as lectures and coach outings) typically sell out within a month.
Can I get a refund or exchange my ticket?
Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable unless an event is cancelled.
Where will I receive my ticket?
You will receive an email confirmation, which is your ticket. Further information (such as where to meet or any updates) will be sent to your email address after bookings close (approximately five days before the event).
I didn’t receive a confirmation email – what should I do?
Please first check your spam or junk folder. Then check that your email address is correct in your Friends account.
If you still cannot locate your confirmation, please email Friends@botanic.cam.ac.uk with your order number (or the booking date and email address used), and we can resend it.
Can I book multiple tickets?
You may book up to the same number of tickets as you have memberships.
Do I need to print my ticket?
No, you can show your ticket on your smartphone.
Is there a waiting list for sold-out events?
Yes. Please email Friends@botanic.cam.ac.uk to be added to the waiting list.
What time should I arrive?
Please arrive 5–10 minutes before the event start time.
Are events accessible?
We strive to make all our events accessible. Please email Friends@botanic.cam.ac.uk with your requirements so we can make any necessary arrangements.
Who do I contact if I have problems booking?
Please email Friends@botanic.cam.ac.uk for assistance.