The Birmingham Botanical Gardens site is a historic garden that covers 6 hectares and is famed for its glasshouses and wide range of native and exotic plants and birds. The gardens opened in stages between 1832 and 1844 and have been in continuous operation ever since. They were designed by famed horticulturist JC Loudon and even today support his ideas.
The gardens were refurbished in the 1980s and '90s when new buildings were introduced and the glasshouses restored. In 1995, an aviary was added. Today, thousands of visitors stroll the walking paths each year and enjoy a relaxing and serene educational experience.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens - one of the highlights of 10 Best Things to Do for Kids in Birmingham and 7 Best Family Things to Do in Birmingham (Read all about Birmingham here)
Highlights and features of the Birmingham Botanical Gardens
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens is known for its collection of over 7,000 different plants and plant species from all over the world. These include the British National Bonsai Collection and 4 glasshouses of plants ranging from rice and cocoa to cotton and sugar cane, in addition to aquatic and ornamental plants.
The aviary is divided among 4 flights representing Asia, the Americas and Africa and features a wide range of exotic birds. A few species included are the tragopan, Quaker parakeet, lovebird, sulphur-crested cockatoo and blue macaw. Many native birds can also be seen flitting throughout the outdoor gardens.
Know before you visit the Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Booking in advance is recommended, and visitors who purchase advance tickets get a 10% discount. Parking is available, but spaces in the car park can be limited, and vehicles should be registered after parking to avoid a fine. Buses also travel to the gardens.
The onsite tea room and cafe facility allows visitors to get light fare and beverages and offers a place to relax and recharge. A playground area is available for the kids to enjoy, and there are picnic facilities onsite as well. Limited toilet facilities are available. Dogs are not permitted on the grounds except for assistance animals.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Elhelyezkedés: Westbourne Rd, Birmingham B15 3TR, UK
Nyitvatartás: Daily from 10 am to 3.30 pm
Telefonszám: +44 (0)1214 541860