Highlights
- A replica Roman temple, Bath's exhibit at the 1924 British Empire Exhibition
- The rock garden and pool
- A herbaceous border, scented walk and old shrub roses
- The Great Dell, a former quarry turned woodland garden with conifers
About Bath Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens lie in the north west corner of Royal Victoria Park, less than a mile from Bath city centre. The council dates the gardens' origins to 1840 and their formal creation within the park to 1887, and over the years they have benefited from gifts of Victorian plant collections and unusual trees.
The gardens are noted for their collection of plants grown on limestone. To mark the centenary in 1987, the site was extended into the Great Dell, a disused quarry already planted with conifers, which has since been developed as a woodland garden.
What to see
- Herbaceous border: a fine border alongside many choice trees and shrubs.
- Rock garden and pool.
- Scented walk and old shrub roses.
- Roman temple: a replica temple, originally the city's exhibit at the British Empire Exhibition at Wembley in 1924.
- The Great Dell: a woodland garden in a former quarry, with a fine collection of conifers.
Planning your visit
The gardens have two pedestrian entrances on the Royal Avenue loop inside Royal Victoria Park. There is no vehicle access, but on-road pay and display parking nearby is free for up to an hour, and Charlotte Street Car Park is 600 metres away. Buses from Bath Bus Station and Newbridge Park and Ride stop on Upper Bristol Road, 250 metres from the gardens. Paths are tarmac and the gardens are fully accessible. Royal Victoria Park has a café open all year from 8am to 5pm, and public toilets in the play area and at Charlotte Street Car Park.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bath Botanical Gardens free?
Yes, there is no admission charge, and the gardens are open throughout the year.
Where can I park for Bath Botanical Gardens?
There is on-road pay and display parking nearby, free for up to an hour, and Charlotte Street Car Park is about 600 metres away. The gardens are a 25 minute walk from Bath bus and train stations.
Are the Botanical Gardens in Bath accessible?
Yes, the council describes the gardens as fully accessible, with tarmac paths throughout.