Bristol Botanic Garden
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Bristol Botanic Garden

4.6
·203 reviews·, United Kingdom

A serene urban sanctuary showcasing diverse plant life, from exotic glasshouse species to local flora. Perfect for a peaceful escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wednesdays

Discounted entry & peaceful

CrowdLow
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Bristol Botanic Garden

Bristol Botanic Garden

Best Time

Wednesdays

Discounted entry & peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene urban sanctuary showcasing diverse plant life, from exotic glasshouse species to local flora. Perfect for a peaceful escape.

4.6
(203 reviews)

"An absolutely stunning place and a must-visit for any nature lover! Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Daisy Day Discount

Visit on Wednesdays for 'Daisy Day' and pay a minimum of £1 for entry. Great value! :moneybag:

⏰ Allow Ample Time

While some find it small, 1-2 hours is ideal to truly appreciate the diverse plant collections. :clock1:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Glasshouses

The Glasshouses

Indoor sections

Step into a world of exotic flora, from tropical wonders to Mediterranean species, all thriving in controlled environments.

Reddit
Herbaceous Borders

Herbaceous Borders

Outdoor gardens

Wander through beautifully maintained outdoor sections showcasing a diverse range of plants, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Reddit
Secluded Seating Areas

Secluded Seating Areas

Throughout the gardens

Discover charming spots dotted around the garden, ideal for relaxing with a book, coffee, or good company.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Weekday Wonders & Daisy Days

Consider a weekday visit for a more tranquil experience. Wednesdays offer a special 'Daisy Day' with a minimum £1 entry, making it a budget-friendly option for exploring this urban oasis. Reddit

Value for Your Visit

While the £9 general admission might feel steep for a shorter visit, consider the value if you're a horticulture enthusiast. Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the diverse plant collections. Reddit

Best Times

When
Wednesdays
Why
Discounted entry & peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Spring/Summer
Why
Peak bloom & lush greenery
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Fun things to do on a weekday by yourself in Bristol

🎯 Daisy Day Discount

Visit on Wednesdays for 'Daisy Day' and pay a minimum of £1 for entry. Great value! Reddit :moneybag:

⏰ Allow Ample Time

While some find it small, 1-2 hours is ideal to truly appreciate the diverse plant collections. Reddit :clock1:

☕ Cafe Costs

The cafe can be a bit pricey for snacks and drinks, consider bringing your own if on a tight budget. Reddit :coffee:

🌿 For the Plant Enthusiast

Horticulture lovers will find immense value, but general visitors might find the £9 entry steep. Reddit :seedling:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Daisy Day Discount

Visit on Wednesdays for 'Daisy Day' and pay a minimum of £1 for entry. Great value! Reddit :moneybag:

⏰ Allow Ample Time

While some find it small, 1-2 hours is ideal to truly appreciate the diverse plant collections. Reddit :clock1:

☕ Cafe Costs

The cafe can be a bit pricey for snacks and drinks, consider bringing your own if on a tight budget. Reddit :coffee:

🌿 For the Plant Enthusiast

Horticulture lovers will find immense value, but general visitors might find the £9 entry steep. Reddit :seedling:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(203 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Bristol Botanic Garden as a peaceful urban oasis with stunning glasshouses and diverse plant collections. While some find the general admission price a bit high for a short visit, the 'Daisy Day' on Wednesdays offers excellent value. The cafe is noted as being a bit pricey, but the overall experience is considered educational and enriching. Reddit

"It's such a gorgeous place to sit with a book, coffee, friends or family. Beautiful spaces with seating dotted around. The whole experience is also educational. It has come a long way in ten years. A little oasis in the city of Bristol for peace. 🌈"

Joy Johnson

"The greenhouses are always the highlight. I think the £9 entry is a little steep for the general public, though I'm sure someone who is into horticulture and gardening would find more value in it. I think I was here around one hour. If I had no-one with me, I'd probably spend a little longer.

They do a cheap entry on Weds, but I think you should definitely pay the full rate if you can afford it."

S Tarnet

"Visited on a Wednesday as it's Daisy Day so you pay a minimum of £1.

Really looked forward to seeing the greenhouses but it was somewhat disappointing. Crammed full of plants and not very well laid out. It's July and the orchids had all but finished. The outdoors didn't really rock my boat but then I do prefer indoor plants.

The cafe is a little pricey but not overly. All cakes are £3.99 and coffee varies. Sandwiches ARE expensive at £5.99.

Yes, I enjoyed the visit and perhaps my expectations were too high after visiting Kew."

Paul D

What People Like

Beautiful glasshouses
Peaceful atmosphere
Diverse plant collections

What People Dislike

General admission price
Cafe prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The garden is accessible by public transport, with several bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, there is limited parking available. Check local transport websites for the most up-to-date bus information. Reddit

Parking is available but can be limited, especially during peak times. It's advisable to arrive early or consider public transport. Reddit

Yes, cycling is a great option. There are usually bike racks available near the entrance for secure storage of your bicycle. Reddit

Bristol Temple Meads is the main train station in Bristol. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to reach the Botanic Garden. Reddit

The garden has paved paths in many areas, but some sections may be uneven. It's best to check with the garden directly for specific accessibility information. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Bristol Botanic Garden website for the most current opening times before your visit. Reddit

General admission is typically £9. However, on Wednesdays, they have 'Daisy Day' with a minimum entry fee of £1, offering a budget-friendly option. Reddit

While you can usually purchase tickets at the entrance, buying online in advance might be possible and could save time, especially during busy periods. Check their website for online booking options. Reddit

Yes, 'Daisy Day' on Wednesdays offers a significantly reduced entry fee. Concessions for students or seniors might also be available; inquire at the ticket office. Reddit

For horticulture enthusiasts, it's often considered good value. General visitors might find it a bit steep for a shorter visit, but the unique plant collections are a draw. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

You'll find diverse plant collections, including herbs, tropical plants, crops, and rare local species, housed in both outdoor gardens and impressive glasshouses. Reddit

Most visitors spend around 1-2 hours exploring the gardens and glasshouses. If you're deeply interested in horticulture, you could easily spend longer. Reddit

Information on guided tours may vary. It's best to check the garden's official website or inquire at the visitor center upon arrival for any available tour schedules. Reddit

Absolutely! The diverse plant life, vibrant colors, and unique structures like the glasshouses offer fantastic opportunities for photography. Reddit

While specific rules can change, many gardens allow picnics in designated areas. It's advisable to check the garden's policy on outside food and drink. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe on-site that serves refreshments, cakes, and light meals. Reddit

The cafe can be a bit pricey, with cakes around £3.99 and sandwiches costing approximately £5.99. Reddit

Cafes typically offer a range of options. It's best to check the menu on the day of your visit or inquire with the cafe staff. Reddit

Policies on bringing outside food can vary. It's recommended to check the garden's guidelines or ask at the entrance to confirm if picnics are permitted. Reddit

Being in Bristol, there are numerous restaurants and cafes in the surrounding areas if you prefer to dine outside the garden. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The glasshouses are a highlight for photography, offering dramatic backdrops. The diverse outdoor plant collections and seating areas also provide beautiful shots. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed in the glasshouses, but it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash if it might disturb plants or people. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer, more flattering light. Overcast days can also be great for capturing vibrant plant colors without harsh shadows. Reddit

Professional photography or filming may require special permission or incur additional fees. It's advisable to contact the garden administration in advance if you plan a professional shoot. Reddit

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots of the garden and close-ups of plants. A macro lens can be great for detailed shots of flowers and insects. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bristol Botanic Garden can be a delightful outing for families, offering a chance for children to connect with nature. The diverse plant life, especially within the glasshouses, can spark curiosity about different environments and species. While there aren't extensive play areas, the open spaces and varied plant collections provide plenty of room for exploration and discovery. Reddit

Consider visiting on a Wednesday for 'Daisy Day' to make the trip more economical. Pack some snacks and drinks, as the on-site cafe can be a bit pricey for families. Encourage kids to look for interesting shapes, colors, and textures in the plants. It's a peaceful environment that can offer a refreshing break from the city bustle. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Wednesday 'Daisy Day' is your golden ticket, offering entry for a minimum of £1. Reddit This significantly reduces the cost of admission, making it a very affordable way to enjoy the gardens. Beyond the entry fee, consider packing your own picnic to save on cafe expenses, as food prices can add up. Reddit

While the garden itself is the main attraction, exploring the surrounding areas of Bristol can also be done on a budget. Many of Bristol's museums offer free entry, providing additional low-cost activities to complement your visit to the Botanic Garden. Reddit

🌿 Horticulture Enthusiasts

For those with a passion for plants, the Bristol Botanic Garden is a treasure trove. The diverse collections, from rare local species to exotic tropical and Mediterranean plants housed in the glasshouses, offer a rich learning experience. Reddit You'll appreciate the meticulous care and the educational value of the displays, which showcase a wide range of botanical diversity. Reddit

Allocate a good 1-2 hours or more to truly immerse yourself in the details. Engage with the knowledgeable staff or volunteers if they are available, as they can offer deeper insights into the garden's history, conservation efforts, and specific plant species. The £9 entry fee is likely to feel well-justified given the depth and breadth of the horticultural offerings. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Glasshouses

The glasshouses are a standout feature of the Bristol Botanic Garden, offering a glimpse into diverse climates and plant life. Visitors can wander through sections dedicated to tropical plants, Mediterranean species, and even rare local flora. The carefully controlled environments within these structures allow for the cultivation of plants that might not otherwise survive in the UK's climate. Many reviewers highlight the glasshouses as a primary reason for their visit, appreciating the exotic beauty and the educational aspect of seeing plants from around the globe. Reddit

Inside, you'll find a vibrant array of species, from lush ferns and towering palms to delicate orchids. While some visitors have noted that certain displays, like orchids, might be past their prime depending on the season, the overall collection is impressive. The layout encourages exploration, with winding paths and informative signage that enhances the visitor experience. It's a fantastic opportunity to learn about plant adaptations and the importance of conservation. Reddit

Remember that the humidity and temperature can be higher inside the glasshouses, so dress accordingly. It's also a prime spot for photography, with the diffused light creating a magical atmosphere. Be mindful of other visitors and the delicate nature of the plants when taking your shots. Reddit

Value and Visiting Tips

The entry fee for Bristol Botanic Garden is a point of discussion among visitors. While the standard admission is £9, many highlight 'Daisy Day' on Wednesdays as an excellent opportunity for a more budget-friendly visit, with a minimum entry fee of just £1. Reddit This makes it an accessible option for locals and tourists alike looking for a peaceful escape. However, some visitors feel the £9 price point is a little steep if they plan on a short visit or are not deeply invested in horticulture. Reddit

To make the most of your visit, it's recommended to allow at least 1-2 hours. This gives you ample time to explore both the outdoor gardens and the captivating glasshouses without feeling rushed. If you're a keen gardener or botanist, you could easily spend longer appreciating the detailed collections and the ongoing work of the garden. Reddit

When it comes to refreshments, the on-site cafe offers cakes and light meals, but prices can be on the higher side, with cakes around £3.99 and sandwiches nearing £5.99. For those on a tighter budget, bringing your own snacks or planning to eat elsewhere in Bristol might be a good strategy. Reddit

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