Highlights
- The Walled Garden, the oldest part, with family order beds and a Literary Garden
- Seven display glasshouses, from tropical and swamp to desert and alpine
- The Lower Garden by the River Cherwell, with a Rock Garden and herbaceous border
- The 'Plants That Changed The World' border
About Oxford Botanic Garden
Oxford Botanic Garden was founded in 1621 as a physic garden for growing medicinal plants, making it the oldest botanic garden in the UK. It sits on the bank of the River Cherwell next to Magdalen College, a short walk from the High Street, and is still run by the University of Oxford for teaching, research and conservation.
The garden is compact but densely planted, holding more than 5,000 plant species. Its sister site, Harcourt Arboretum, lies about six miles south of the city at Nuneham Courtenay and has its own tickets.
What to see
- The Walled Garden: the oldest part of the site, dating from 1621, laid out with beds arranged by plant family, a Medicinal Collection and a Literary Garden.
- The Glasshouses: seven display houses recreating conditions from tropical jungle and swamp to desert and alpine.
- The Lower Garden: beside Christ Church Meadow and the river, with the Rock Garden, the Herbaceous Border and the 'Plants That Changed The World' border.
Free volunteer-led tours run on Thursdays and Sundays at 2.30pm from April to September, subject to availability.
Planning your visit
The entrance is on Rose Lane, off the High Street near Magdalen Bridge. There is no parking on site and traffic filters operate in the city, so Park and Ride, buses to the High Street or St Clement's, or walking from the station (about 25 minutes) are the easiest options. There are cycle racks outside.
The garden is fully wheelchair accessible, with accessible toilets and changing facilities. A pop-up coffee stand serves drinks and snacks, and picnics are welcome (no alcohol). Groups of 15 or more must book ahead. Dogs are not allowed apart from assistance dogs.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to visit Oxford Botanic Garden?
A standard adult day ticket is £9 and concessions are £7.20. Under 16s go free with a paying family member, and a disabled visitor with a carer pays £1. Online bookings carry a £1 fee per transaction; tickets are also sold at the door.
Can I bring my dog?
No. Only assistance dogs are allowed at the Botanic Garden.
Is there parking at Oxford Botanic Garden?
There is no on-site parking. The nearest car park is St Clement's, and the garden recommends Park and Ride because of Oxford's traffic filters. It is about ten minutes' walk from Carfax.
Is the garden wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The site is fully wheelchair accessible, with accessible toilets and changing facilities, and a wheelchair can be booked in advance on 01865 610 300.