1. Eden Project, Cornwall
The Eden Project houses over 5000 varieties of plant in its 30 acres of garden, it has 3 gigantic biomes set at different temperatures and humidities to replicate different world environments and ensure that all the plants are kept happy. During the spring there are over 25,000 tulips and outdoors there are bluebells in abundance, you will feel like you’ve visited the whole world in a day.
Extra info: You get a discount for arriving by public transport, so make sure you take your train ticket!
Nearest Station: St Austell
2. Kew Gardens, London
Among the amazing plants and trees at Kew there are also sculptures, galleries and even a ten-storey pagoda! Enjoy a stroll in the canopy of the arboretum on the tree top walk, or stay firmly on the ground exploring the largest surviving Victorian glass houses in the world.
Extra info: Don’t miss the waterlily house which holds some of the biggest – and smallest – waterlillies in the world!
Nearest Station: Underground – Kew Gardens Station, National Rail – Kew Bridge Station
3. Sheffield Winter Garden
Sheffield Winter Garden is fairly small in the scheme of botanicals, however what it lacks in size it makes up for in positioning. It’s a literal stone’s throw from the station and provides an oasis of calm in the midst of the city. It’s a great place to catch your breath if you’re in Sheffield for an event or a shopping spree, and it is a short bus ride to Sheffield’s Botanical Gardens if you want to be really green-fingered.
Nearest Station: Sheffield
4. Glasgow Botanical Gardens
Glasgow Botanical Gardens is fortunate to have its own river flowing through, perfect for gentle strolls and a touch of peace and quiet. There are often opportunities to attend talks and classes at the gardens, which will soon be opening an outdoor classroom, sure to give you some great tips and tricks to take home.
Extra info: Each year there is a light festival called the Electric Gardens, with sound effects and illuminated evening displays.
Nearest Station: Hyndland
5. Birmingham Botanical Gardens
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens has some rather eccentric attractions within its bounds, including tea plants – kettle on! – and also a tree lovingly dubbed the handkerchief tree. There are often events for the family to get green-fingered and the band stand is regularly occupied by local music groups for a humming atmosphere.
Nearest Station: Five Ways Station