Botanic Gardens - Image 1

Botanic Gardens

Belfast, United Kingdom•4.6(9.3k)•Botanical Garden, City Park

Explore 200 years of horticultural heritage with tropical plants, rose gardens, alpine collections and award-winning landscapes in Belfast's cherished public park.

Botanic Gardens is a historic public park established in 1828 by the Belfast Botanic and Horticultural Society and reopened to the public in 1895. Spanning south Belfast across multiple entrances (Botanic Avenue, Stranmillis Embankment and University Road), the gardens showcase impressive plant collections including tropical species, exotic trees from the Southern Hemisphere, a dedicated rose garden, an alpine garden, mature trees, vibrant flower beds and sculptures. The venue houses two major attractions: the Palm House and the Tropical Ravine, offering immersive horticultural experiences. The park has received Green Flag awards annually from 2011 to 2022, plus a special Green Flag Heritage Award in 2023 recognising its unique heritage features and visitor experience enhancements. Botanic Gardens is a popular destination for residents, students and tourists, offering a peaceful escape with scenic walking paths and mature landscaping. The venue regularly hosts concerts, festivals and park activities suitable for families of all ages. With free entry and opening from 7:30am daily, it provides accessible outdoor recreation year-round. The park's diverse botanical collections and historical significance make it an educational destination for gardening enthusiasts and nature lovers.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 07:30 – 21:00
Tuesday: 07:30 – 21:00
Wednesday: 07:30 – 21:00
Thursday: 07:30 – 21:00
Friday: 07:30 – 21:00
Saturday: 07:30 – 21:00
Sunday: 07:30 – 21:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
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Google Reviews

4.6(9.3k reviews)
N
Nick Crohn

Nick Crohn

2 months ago

A really wonderful experience, seeing such a variety of plants, gorgeous blooms and beautifully laid out gardens. We spent around 3 hours in the gardens and greenhouses. The palm house and tropical ravine are stunning and you can put up with the heat for the variety and beauty of the plants.

L
Laura

Laura

2 months ago

Free! Beautiful for a walk around - rose gardens were in full bloom with a vast selection to view. The hop on hop off bus stops here and you can combine your visit with a walk around the Queens University / Ulster Museum and a trip to a lovely cafe 'French Village' all within walking distance of one another.

M
Mike Naylor (Chief)

Mike Naylor (Chief)

4 months ago

I'll be honest, I spent most of my time here in the museum so didn't get to see too much of the gardens. What i did see was impressive. Lovely open and scenic spaces.

A
Ann Annika

Ann Annika

4 months ago

The gardens are so beautiful and well maintained. Some parts have different opening times so I’d recommend checking before so you can enter specific greenhouses. The flowers and temperature inside the greenhouse really makes you think your in another country - the park surrounding the gardens is also stunning so it’s the perfect afternoon plan if you are in Belfast and free for the day! Highly recommend and will be back.

A
Akshata Shenoy

Akshata Shenoy

4 months ago

Lovely public garden especially on a nice sunny day. You can visit there with family or friends or even spend some quality time alone. The garden is huge. There is a temperature room which is in 2 different places one has smaller plants and flowers and other has huge tropical trees. There is an open rose garden. Tulips and other spring flowers adds on to the beauty. Plenty seating space. There is a mobile ice cream cart. You can spend half a day if you include Ulster Museum as well as all of this is in the same compound.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Botanic Gardens

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 28 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Botanic Gardens

Is Botanic Gardens free to visit?

Entry to Botanic Gardens is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

What ages is Botanic Gardens suitable for?

Botanic Gardens is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Botanic Gardens dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Botanic Gardens.

Is there parking at Botanic Gardens?

Botanic Gardens doesn't have parking — public transport is recommended.

Is there food at Botanic Gardens?

Botanic Gardens doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Botanic Gardens pushchair-friendly?

Botanic Gardens isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at Botanic Gardens?

Botanic Gardens is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Botanic Gardens by public transport?

Botanic station is approximately 8 minutes' walk from Botanic Gardens.

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