Visit Oxford Botanic Garden

Discover over 5,000 different plant species at the UK's oldest Botanic Garden.

Open daily 10am - 4pm (last entry 3pm*).

We offer a range of ticketing options, including a concessionary rate for disabled visitors and their accompanying carer. Friends members, as well as University of Oxford staff and students enter for free with valid ID.

*excludes some events

Activities & Events

Browse activities and events

There are plenty of great activities for you to enjoy in 2026. From family-friendly activities such as 'Chemistry in the Garden' to practical courses such as 'Houseplant care', there is plenty for the whole family to get involved in.

Become a Friend

Become a member

Friends of Oxford Botanic Garden and Arboretum help support the UK's oldest botanic garden and conserve threatened trees at Harcourt Arboretum. Membership also supports education, training and vital research for future generations. Friends enjoy benefits such as shop discount, an exclusive calendar of events, and free or reduced price entry to nine other botanic gardens across the UK.

Book a Group Visit

Please book ahead for groups of more than 15

Please arrive promptly for your booking. If you will be more than 15 minutes late please contact Front of House on 01865 610 300.
For school visits ensure there is one adult supervisor for every 10 students present.

History of the Garden

Established in 1621, Oxford Botanic Garden is the oldest botanic garden in the UK. Learn more about its history as a physic garden supporting medical study at the University of Oxford and the changes that have shaped the garden you see today.

The Walled Garden

The oldest part of the Botanic Garden dates back to its foundation in 1621. This area is home to formal taxonomic (family) beds, the Literary Garden and Medicinal Collection.

The Lower Garden

The Lower Garden holds several ornamental collections that visitors are sure to find inspiration in. Adjacent to Christ Church Meadow and bordered with the river Cherwell, this area features highlights including, the Rock Garden, the Herbaceous Border, and the 'Plants That Changed The World' border.

The Glasshouses

We are able to create a range of climatic conditions in our seven display glasshouses, cultivating plants from around the world. Visitors can travel the globe, as they pass from tropical jungle and oozing swamp, to desert and alpine environments.

Research and Conservation

OBGA scientists have a broad portfolio of collections-based and interdisciplinary research, informed by botanical surveys conducted in remote locations around the world. In collaboration with the University of Oxford, other botanic gardens and global institutions, this work provides insight into field such as technology, medicine, and adaptation in changing climates.

Google Maps

Travelling to the Garden

Parking in Oxford city centre is limited and there is no parking at the Garden. Park & Ride services help reduce local congestion at busy times. There are also plenty of buses serving St Clements and the High Street (Queens Lane).

Walking: The Garden is just a short walk from the centre of town. From Carfax Tower, the Garden is an 11-minute walk along the High Street. From Oxford Train Station it is around a 25-minute walk.
Cycling and e-scooters: There are cycle racks outside the Botanic Garden and an e-scooter pick-up point near the High Street steps.

Pop-up Cafe

Visitors can enjoy ethical sustainable and locally roasted coffee from Horsebox Coffee. As well as delicious barista-prepared drinks, they also serve brownies and sweet treats from specialist local bakers.

The Garden is also a great place for a picnic, with plenty of benches available. Please do not bring alcohol on site.

Learn more

Accessibility

We welcome all visitors to the Garden, including those with disabilities, their carers, family members and friends. The site is fully wheelchair accessible and we have a wheelchair available for public use. To book this in advance, please phone the ticket office on 01865 610 300.

There are toilets (including accessible toilets) and changing facilities on site. Dogs are not permitted at the Garden, with the exception of assistance dogs.