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.
Why are you watering during a Hosepipe Ban?
We understand that visitors may have questions about watering during the current hosepipe ban. To protect the garden’s collections during these exceptionally dry conditions, we are carrying out limited, carefully managed watering using harvested rainwater and borehole water rather than mains supplies. Our priority is to prevent significant plant losses, and you may see staff watering whole beds or areas where this is the most effective approach. Wherever possible, watering takes place overnight, although some daytime watering is necessary due to the scale of demand on our systems.
Please do not adjust or move irrigation equipment, as it is carefully positioned and programmed to deliver water where and when it is needed most.
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.
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.
