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Castleton Botanical Gardens: A Tranquil Escape

Discover a serene escape at Castleton Botanical Gardens: a historic Jamaican paradise with exotic flora and tranquil riverside views.

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Established in 1862, Castleton Botanical Gardens is a serene oasis nestled in the hills of St. Mary, Jamaica. Once a sugar plantation, the gardens boast a diverse collection of exotic and indigenous plants, including palms, ferns, and vibrant heliconias. The Wag Water River flows alongside, offering a refreshing swimming spot and enhancing the garden's tranquil atmosphere.

A brief summary to Castleton Botanical Gardens

Local tips

  • Bring insect repellent, especially if visiting in the late afternoon or early morning.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on potentially uneven paths.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy by the Wag Water River.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Half-Way-Tree (HWT) in Kingston, take a bus heading to Annotto Bay or Portland. These buses typically depart from the transport center across from Burger King. The fare to Castleton is approximately $150-$170 JMD. Inform the conductor of your destination to ensure the correct fare. The journey takes around 45 minutes. Ask the driver to stop at Castleton Botanical Gardens along the Junction Main Road.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Kingston and can take you directly to Castleton Botanical Gardens. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A taxi ride from Kingston to Castleton may cost between $6,000 - $8,000 JMD and take approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Castleton Botanical Gardens

Castleton Botanical Gardens, a horticultural gem established in 1862, offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Located 19 miles from Kingston in St. Mary, Jamaica, the gardens were founded due to flooding issues at the Bath Botanical Gardens, which was the island's first major botanical garden. Colonel Castle, an English planter, gifted the land, formerly a sugar plantation, to the Jamaican government. Castleton quickly became one of the most richly stocked gardens in the Caribbean, once boasting over 4,000 plant species, many sourced from Kew Gardens in England. While the collection has evolved, visitors can still admire a variety of interesting trees and plants, including the strychnos (source of strychnine), African velvet apple, West Indian mahogany, and coffee specimens. The gardens span over 10 hectares and are bisected by the Junction main road. The Wag Water River adds to the allure, providing a picturesque backdrop and a spot for a refreshing swim. The gardens are well-maintained and provide an ideal setting for picnics and relaxation, attracting both locals and tourists. Birdwatchers will also find delight in the diverse avian life that calls Castleton home.

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