Belfast Botanic Gardens: Victorian Elegance Meets Tropical Splendor
Explore Belfast’s Victorian Botanic Gardens, home to iconic glasshouses, exotic plants, and vibrant cultural events in a serene urban oasis.
Belfast Botanic Gardens is a 28-acre Victorian park established in 1828, featuring the iconic Palm House and Tropical Ravine greenhouses. Located near Queen’s University, this tranquil urban oasis offers exotic plant collections, rose and alpine gardens, sculptures, and a rich horticultural heritage. Free to enter, the gardens are a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike, hosting concerts and festivals throughout the year.
A brief summary to Botanic Gardens
- College Park Ave, Botanic Ave, Belfast, BT7 1LP, GB
- +442890314762
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 7:30 am-6:30 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-6:30 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-6:30 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-6:30 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-6:30 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-6:30 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-6:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Palm House and Tropical Ravine greenhouses to see rare tropical plants and learn about Victorian horticulture.
- Join free guided tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2 pm for expert insights into the gardens’ history and plant collections.
- Explore the rose garden and herbaceous borders during summer for vibrant seasonal blooms.
- Check out the nearby Ulster Museum for complementary exhibits on art and natural history.
- Plan your visit between spring and early autumn for the best weather and to enjoy outdoor concerts and festivals.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Train
Take the train to Botanic Station, a short walk from the gardens. Trains run frequently from Belfast city center, with journey times around 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £3-£5 return. The station is wheelchair accessible.
-
Bus
Several Metro bus routes serve the Queens University and College Park stops near the gardens, including routes 7 and 8. Buses run every 10-20 minutes during the day, with fares around £2-£3 per trip. The area is accessible with low-floor buses.
-
Car
Street parking is available near the gardens, but spaces can be limited during peak times. Parking fees vary by location and time, generally £1-£3 per hour. Note that the gardens are in a busy urban area with some traffic restrictions.
-
Walking
From Belfast city center, a pleasant 25-30 minute walk through Queen’s Quarter brings you to the gardens. Paths are paved and mostly level, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Botanic Gardens location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Botanic Gardens
Historic Roots and Botanical Heritage
Founded in 1828 by the Belfast Botanic and Horticultural Society, Belfast Botanic Gardens was originally a private garden before becoming a public park in 1895. It reflects the Victorian era’s passion for botany and horticulture, with many exotic and rare plants collected from the Southern Hemisphere still thriving today. The park’s design and plant collections showcase Belfast’s rich botanical history and Victorian architectural elegance.Architectural Marvels: The Palm House and Tropical Ravine
At the heart of the gardens stands the Palm House, a magnificent cast-iron and glass structure designed by Charles Lanyon in the mid-19th century. It features distinct wings: a Tropical Wing housing lush tropical plants and a Cool Wing with seasonal displays of colorful and fragrant flora. Nearby, the Tropical Ravine, completed in 1889, offers a unique Victorian fernery experience with viewing balconies overlooking exotic plants such as banana, cinnamon, orchids, and the celebrated pink-flowered dombeya.Gardens, Sculpture, and Urban Green Space
Beyond the glasshouses, the gardens include an extensive rose garden, the longest herbaceous borders in the UK, an alpine garden, mature trees including rare oaks from the 1880s, and various sculptures that enrich the landscape. The park’s 28 acres provide a peaceful retreat in the city, popular with students, families, and nature lovers. It also hosts regular concerts, festivals, and community events, making it a lively cultural venue.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The gardens are thoughtfully accessible, with smooth, mostly level pathways and facilities such as lifts and accessible restrooms. Free guided tours are available on certain days, offering insights into the gardens’ history and plant collections. The nearby Ulster Museum complements the visit with its extensive exhibits on art, natural history, and archaeology. Admission to the gardens and greenhouses is free, encouraging visitors to explore at leisure.Seasonal Highlights and Conservation Efforts
Seasonal flower displays and changing plant collections ensure the gardens offer something new throughout the year—from vibrant roses in summer to colorful autumn leaves. Conservation and educational initiatives are supported by interactive exhibits and digital displays, highlighting the importance of preserving this unique botanical heritage. The Friends of Belfast Botanic Gardens actively engage in protecting the site’s historic buildings and plant collections.Community and Cultural Significance
Situated near Queen’s University and Belfast’s cultural quarter, the Botanic Gardens serve as a vital green lung and social hub. It balances natural beauty with urban life, providing a space for relaxation, education, and celebration. The gardens’ Victorian charm combined with tropical wonders make it a distinctive landmark in Belfast’s cityscape, cherished by both locals and visitors.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lord Kelvin Statue
0.2 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s own Lord Kelvin with this striking bronze statue set in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Shaftesbury Square
0.8 km
A historic and bustling junction in Belfast where Victorian heritage meets vibrant modern city life.
Frederick Temple Memorial
1.6 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
Belfast City Hall Tours
1.6 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Alec the Goose
1.6 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
1.6 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
1.6 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
1.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich mythology of Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, through guided tours and immersive experiences.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
1.7 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
1.7 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
1.7 km
Discover the heart of Belfast with a free walking tour that unveils the city's history, culture, and hidden gems through the eyes of local guides.
The Back Of Boots
1.7 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Treasure Trails
1.7 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Castle Buildings
1.9 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Beacon of Hope
2.0 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Palm House
0.1 km
Explore Belfast’s iconic Victorian Palm House, a stunning glass and iron botanical marvel nestled in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Ulster Museum
0.2 km
Explore the Ulster Museum, a stunning fusion of art, history, and natural beauty in the heart of Belfast's Botanic Gardens.
Game of Thrones Tours
0.7 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Westeros with Game of Thrones Tours in Belfast, a must-visit for fans and nature lovers alike.
McCombs Coaches
0.8 km
Comfortable and engaging coach tours from Belfast to Northern Ireland’s iconic sights, including the Giant’s Causeway and historic castles.
Giants Causeway Tour
0.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and legendary charm of the Giant's Causeway on a guided tour from Belfast, a remarkable natural wonder not to be missed.
The Stroud Street Murals
0.9 km
Explore Belfast’s Stroud Street Murals—an open-air gallery celebrating punk heritage, urban wildlife, and creative innovation on vibrant Victorian walls.
George Best Mural
0.9 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s football icon with the vibrant George Best Mural, a cultural landmark honoring local pride and sporting greatness.
Ormeau Park
1.2 km
Belfast’s oldest municipal park blending historic charm with vibrant sports, nature, and cultural events in a sprawling urban green space.
Ulster Hall
1.4 km
Belfast’s iconic Victorian concert hall blending rich history, legendary performances, and vibrant cultural life since 1862.
St Malachy's Church
1.4 km
Discover Belfast’s historic St Malachy's Church, famed for its Tudor Gothic style and breathtaking fan-vaulted ceiling inspired by Westminster Abbey.
Robinsons Bar
1.4 km
Discover Robinsons Bar in Belfast: a lively pub offering local brews, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Royal Ulster Rifles Regimental Museum
1.4 km
Explore the rich military history of Northern Ireland at the Royal Ulster Rifles Regimental Museum, a captivating tribute to bravery and sacrifice.
Fibber Magee
1.4 km
Experience the heart of Belfast at Fibber Magee, a traditional Irish pub offering delicious food, local brews, and vibrant entertainment.
Grand Opera House
1.4 km
Belfast’s magnificent Victorian theatre with an exquisite oriental-style auditorium, hosting world-class performances since 1895.
Memorial to World War I and II soldiers
1.5 km
A solemn Portland stone cenotaph in Belfast’s Donegall Square honoring the heroic sacrifices of World War I and II soldiers.
Essential places to dine
Deanes at Queens
0.4 km
Experience modern European cuisine with Michelin-recognized quality in Belfast’s vibrant University Quarter, overlooking picturesque College Gardens.
Molly's Yard
0.4 km
Discover modern Irish cuisine in a charming 19th-century stable block with cozy indoor dining and a peaceful courtyard in Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter.
Hendrix Restaurant| Belfast
0.4 km
Modern fusion dining with Italian-Mexican flair, creative cocktails, and theatrical open kitchen on South Belfast's cultural corridor.
A Peculiar Tea
0.4 km
Where afternoon tea becomes a story-driven escape into imagination and culinary wonder.
Holohan's Pantry
0.5 km
Authentic Irish flavors with a contemporary twist in Belfast’s vibrant University Road dining scene.
Villa Italia
0.5 km
A beloved Belfast institution serving authentic Italian stone-baked pizzas and classic pasta dishes in a warm Georgian setting.
Scalini
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy ambiance at Scalini, a beloved Italian restaurant on Belfast’s vibrant Botanic Avenue.
Blank Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover a rare Irish dining experience with creative dishes and exceptional service in Belfast’s charming Malone Road district.
Darcy's Belfast
0.8 km
A warm, family-run bistro serving hearty traditional Irish dishes with local ingredients in a cozy Belfast setting.
Causeway Cafe
0.8 km
Discover authentic Irish flavors at Causeway Cafe in Belfast—your cozy retreat for delicious meals and warm hospitality.
The Teal Monkey
0.9 km
A lively modern European restaurant in Belfast blending quirky decor, fresh flavors, and live music for a memorable dining experience.
Shu Restaurant Belfast
1.1 km
Experience refined modern French cuisine with Irish influences in Belfast’s stylish Shu Restaurant and lively Juls Bar.
The Ginger Bistro
1.2 km
Vibrant modern European bistro celebrating local produce and exceptional hospitality in Belfast's city centre.
Hope Street Restaurant Belfast
1.2 km
Fresh Northern Irish cuisine in an intimate Belfast setting, perfectly positioned for pre-theatre dining and special occasions.
Zen
1.3 km
Stylish Asian fusion dining in Belfast’s city centre, with creative sushi, bold flavours, and a sleek, modern interior.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Olive & Rose Apparels
0.5 km
Explore the latest fashion trends at Olive & Rose Apparels, a stylish boutique in the heart of Belfast, offering unique clothing for every occasion.
The Yard Shop - Furniture & Accessories
0.6 km
Discover Belfast’s charming Yard Shop, a treasure trove of antique and rustic furniture and home accessories that bring character to any space.
Noor Bazaar
0.9 km
Discover handcrafted wonders and local souvenirs at Noor Bazaar, south Belfast's treasure trove on vibrant Sandy Row.
Great Northern Mall
1.3 km
Belfast's essential retail passage where shopping meets urban culture and community connection.
Deja Vu
1.4 km
Discover Belfast’s premier boutique for exquisite pre-loved designer fashion and exceptional personal service on Lisburn Road.
Esik Creations
1.6 km
Explore Esik Creations in Belfast, where local artistry meets unique gifts for every occasion, perfect for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
1.6 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating Northern Irish creativity and cultural character
Carrolls Irish Gifts Belfast - Donegall Place
1.7 km
Discover authentic Irish culture and unique souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts, a vibrant shop in Belfast’s bustling Donegall Place.
Mooch Belfast - Arthur Street
1.7 km
Discover Belfast's creative heart at Mooch: unique local crafts, handmade treasures, and artisan gifts that bring Northern Ireland home with you.
Little Heart
1.8 km
Discover heartfelt wire art and whimsical keepsakes in Belfast's sole Victorian arcade—a boutique gem blending heritage charm with personal creativity.
Montblanc Boutique Belfast
1.8 km
German luxury craftsmanship in Belfast's Victorian arcade—where timeless elegance meets artisanal mastery.
AllSaints
1.8 km
Discover edgy, contemporary fashion and premium leather goods at AllSaints Belfast in Victoria Square, a stylish destination for modern wardrobe essentials.
New Look
1.8 km
Contemporary fashion retail in Belfast's premier shopping destination with extended hours and convenient services.
Boux Avenue
1.8 km
Discover affordable luxury lingerie and expert fittings in the heart of Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square.
Replay Store Belfast
1.8 km
Discover stylish Italian-designed denim and casual wear at Replay Store Belfast, nestled in the vibrant Victoria Square shopping center.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hatfield House
0.7 km
Historic Irish pub on Belfast’s Ormeau Road blending vintage charm, hearty food, live music, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
The Woodworkers
0.7 km
Belfast's top rotating tap room: craft beers on rotation, timber warmth, board games, and platters in Queen's Quarter's lively heart.
Lavery's
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lavery's, Belfast's premier pub and comedy club, where great food, drinks, and entertainment await.
The Points
1.0 km
A warm, old-school Dublin Road pub with regular live music, a glowing log fire and an unpretentious atmosphere for evening sessions.
Filthy McNastys
1.1 km
Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
Cutters Wharf
1.1 km
A stylish riverside bar and restaurant in Belfast blending modern European cuisine with lively entertainment and scenic river views.
Limelight Lounge
1.2 km
Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
Pug Uglys
1.3 km
Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
Parador Lodge
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Parador Lodge, Belfast's charming pub destination.
The Perch Rooftop Bar
1.4 km
Discover The Perch Rooftop Bar in Belfast: a vibrant cocktail bar with stunning views, premium drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Broken shaker Belfast
1.5 km
A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
Margot
1.6 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
The Garrick
1.7 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
Bittles Bar
1.9 km
Discover Belfast’s iconic flatiron-shaped pub, Bittles Bar, where rich Irish culture, history, and a curated whiskey selection blend in a cozy, historic setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Scratch Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Alibi
0.7 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Thompsons Garage
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Cabaret Supper Club
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Voodoo
1.8 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Club Honey
2.1 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Ollie's Belfast
2.1 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Lux
2.2 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Craics Ninety
2.3 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Shoe Factory
2.4 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Kremlin
2.4 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
The Art Department
2.4 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Anthology Ni
2.4 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Boombox Belfast
2.4 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Saturday Night Nightclub
14.5 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Newtownards nightlife at Saturday Night Nightclub, where music, dancing, and social energy come alive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
