As our summers grow hotter, the Botanic Garden remains a wonderful place to visit, with many shaded walks, trees and cooler areas to explore. If you’re planning a visit, here are some tips to help you stay comfortable while enjoying the Garden.
Is drinking water available?
Drinking water is available from the Café.
What is the best time to visit during a heatwave?
Mornings and later afternoons are often the most comfortable times to explore, particularly during periods of very hot weather. The Garden opens at 10am and closes 6pm.
Are there cooler areas of the Garden?
Yes. The Woodland Garden, Gilbert Carter wooded area, New and Old Pinetums and tree-lined paths tend to feel cooler than more open areas. Visitors may also enjoy spending time in shaded seating areas throughout the Garden.
Will the Garden still look good in hot weather?
Absolutely. While some lawns and moisture-loving plants may look stressed during prolonged dry periods, many areas thrive in warm conditions. The Dry Garden, Dry Meadow near Cory Lodge, Mediterranean Beds and Bee Borders are particularly colourful and provide inspiration for climate-resilient gardening.
How is the Garden caring for its plants during hot weather?
Our horticultural teams prioritise watering newly planted and vulnerable specimens and carefully manage our living collection during periods of heat. Some plants from Mediterranean and drought-prone regions positively flourish in these conditions.
Will the Glasshouses remain open during hot weather?
The Glasshouses will usually remain open, but conditions inside can become extremely warm during periods of hot weather. Visitors are advised to take extra care, stay hydrated and consider visiting the Glasshouses earlier in the day or spending shorter periods inside if temperatures are particularly high.
Why are some sprinklers operating during hot weather?
During periods of hot weather, you may see sprinklers and irrigation systems operating across parts of the Garden. These help us care for vulnerable plants and trees, and landscapes, particularly new plantings and important specimens within our living collections, as well as maintaining key visitor areas such as selected lawns.
Please do not run through or allow children to play in the sprinklers as the water is sourced from our borehole supply and is carefully managed to support the Garden’s plants and conservation work. We also ask visitors not to adjust or move irrigation equipment, as it is carefully positioned and programmed to deliver water where and when it is needed most.
Will tours, courses, group visits and events still take place during hot weather?
Most tours, courses and events will go ahead as planned. If you have booked onto a specific activity and are unsure whether it will be affected by the weather, please use the contact details provided in your booking confirmation to check before travelling.
If you are visiting for a free event or tour that does not require booking, we recommend checking our website before you arrive for the latest updates.
Will the Café be open during hot weather?
Yes. The Café will be open as usual, serving a selection of cold drinks, ice creams and light refreshments – perfect for cooling down during your visit.
With shady walks, colourful summer displays and peaceful spaces to unwind, we hope you enjoy a relaxing and refreshing visit to the Garden.
