The Oxford Botanic Garden is a botanical garden located in Oxford, England. Founded in 1621, it is the oldest botanical garden in the UK and one of the oldest in the world. The garden covers 4.8 hectares and contains a diverse plant collection, with over 8,000 different plant species from all over the world. It is a major centre for horticulture, botanical research and garden design, and is home to a number of important plant conservation and biodiversity projects.
History
The Oxford Botanic Garden was founded in 1621 by the then Chancellor of the University of Oxford, Henry Danvers, Earl of Danby. The garden was originally located in the centre of Oxford, but was relocated to its current site in 1632. Over the centuries, the garden has grown and developed, and today it is a major centre for horticulture and plant research.
Attractions and What to See
The Oxford Botanic Garden is home to a wide range of plants and trees from all over the world. The garden is divided into several different sections, including the Rock Garden, the Rare Plant House, the Arboretum, the Orangery, and the Water Garden. Visitors can also explore the garden’s greenhouse, which houses a range of exotic plants, and the historic Herbarium, which contains a large collection of preserved plant specimens.
Tours and Admission
The Oxford Botanic Garden offers a range of guided tours, which provide visitors with an in-depth look at the garden’s history, plant collection, and garden design. Tours are available for adults, children, and families, and are free with admission. Admission to the garden is free for University of Oxford members, and costs £5 for adults and £2.50 for children.
Tips for Tourists
- The Oxford Botanic Garden is open daily from 10am to 6pm (April to September) and 10am to 4pm (October to March).
- The garden is wheelchair and pushchair friendly, and there are a number of accessible toilets on site.
- The garden is home to a range of wildlife, including birds, bats, and butterflies, so visitors should take care not to disturb the animals.
- The garden is a popular spot for picnics, so visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks.
- The garden is a great spot for photography, so visitors should bring their cameras.
Practical Information
The Oxford Botanic Garden is located at Rose Lane, Oxford OX1 4AZ. The nearest train station is Oxford, which is a 10-minute walk away. The garden is also served by a number of bus routes, and there is a car park located on site.
Conclusion
The Oxford Botanic Garden is a must-see for anyone visiting Oxford, England. With its diverse plant collection, garden design, and history, the garden is a major centre for horticulture and plant conservation. Visitors can explore the garden’s many attractions, and take part in guided tours to learn more about the garden’s history and plant collection. The garden is open daily and admission is free for University of Oxford members.
