University of Oxford Botanic Garden

About this experience

The Oxford Botanic Garden is a historic and beautiful garden in Oxford, renowned for being the oldest botanic garden in Britain, founded in 1621. It is part of the University of Oxford and serves both as a research facility and a public garden.

 

Collections & Highlights

  • Medicinal Plants – Originally founded to support medical research, it still features plants used in medicine.

  • Trees and Shrubs – Over 5,000 plant species from around the world.

  • Glasshouses – Exotic tropical plants, desert succulents, and tropical rainforest species.

  • Herb Garden – Historical herbs used in cooking and medicine.

  • Water Features & Borders – Beautiful ponds, flowerbeds, and themed areas for different plant families.

Historic Significance

  • Established by Henry Danvers, 1st Earl of Danby, for the teaching of medicine at Oxford University.

  • Many original planting designs remain, blending scientific purpose with aesthetic appeal.

  • One of the most complete and well-preserved historic botanic gardens in the UK.

 

Why Visit

  • Explore rare and exotic plants from around the world.

  • Enjoy a peaceful escape from the city center with beautifully maintained gardens.

  • Educational tours and displays explain plant biology, ecology, and history.

  • Perfect for families, students, researchers, and photography enthusiasts.

Visitor Tips

  • Located on High Street, easy to reach from Oxford city center.

  • Ideal to visit in spring and summer when plants are at their most vibrant.

  • Offers a shop and small café for refreshments.

  • Free entry for University of Oxford students, small fee for public visitors.

In short, the Oxford Botanic Garden is a blend of scientific history and horticultural beauty, showcasing thousands of plant species in a peaceful, historic setting right in the heart of Oxford.

Address - Rose Ln, Oxford OX1 4AZ