Castleton Botanical Gardens, St Thomas Lowlands Travel Guide

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Escape to tranquility at Castleton Botanical Gardens: a historic Jamaican paradise of lush greenery, exotic plants, and the soothing Wag Water River.

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Castleton Botanical Gardens

Established in 1862, Castleton Botanical Gardens offers a serene retreat from city life. Wander through lush greenery, discover exotic plants, and relax by the Wag Water River. Once a sugar plantation, it's now a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

A brief summary to Castleton Botanical Gardens

55CG+WHM, A3, Castleton, JM
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Monday 5:30 am-6 pm
Tuesday 5:30 am-6 pm
Wednesday 5:30 am-6 pm
Thursday 5:30 am-6 pm
Friday 5:30 am-6 pm
Saturday 5:30 am-6 pm
Sunday 5:30 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Castleton Botanical Gardens.

Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be present, especially near the river.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the garden paths.
Pack a picnic to enjoy by the Wag Water River.
Consider visiting during the week to avoid larger crowds.

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Explore Castleton Botanical Gardens on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Castleton Botanical Gardens, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Kingston, take a bus heading to Annotto Bay or St. Mary. These buses often pass by Castleton. The journey from Half Way Tree (HWT) in Kingston to Castleton takes approximately 45 minutes. Inform the driver that you wish to stop at Castleton Gardens; the bus will drop you off conveniently at the entrance. The bus fare from Kingston to Castleton is approximately JM$300-JM$400.
Taxi

From Kingston, a taxi to Castleton Botanical Gardens will take approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic. Negotiate the fare beforehand, as prices can vary. A typical fare may range from JM$6,000 to JM$8,000.

Discover more about Castleton Botanical Gardens

Castleton Botanical Gardens, located in St. Mary, Jamaica, is a horticultural treasure trove with a rich history. Founded on November 19, 1862, the gardens were established due to frequent flooding at the Bath Botanical Gardens in St. Thomas. Many species of plants from Bath were then moved to Castleton. The land was once a sugar plantation owned by Colonel Castle, who later gifted it to the Jamaican government.Castleton quickly became one of the most richly stocked gardens in the Caribbean. In its prime, it boasted over 180 species of palms and at least 4,000 specimens of other flora, many introduced from Kew Gardens in England. Today, visitors can still admire a diverse collection of plants, including strychnos, African velvet apple, rose apple, mangosteen, and West Indian mahogany.The gardens span 10 hectares (approximately 25 acres) and are divided by the Junction Main Road. The Wag Water River flows alongside the gardens, offering a cooling respite and opportunities for a swim. The lush environment is a haven for birds, making it a delight for nature lovers. Castleton is a popular spot for picnics and family outings, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.