Dawyck Botanic Garden: A World-Class Arboretum in the Scottish Borders

Explore Dawyck Botanic Garden’s magnificent arboretum, rare trees, and seasonal blooms in a serene Scottish Borders setting.

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Dawyck Botanic Garden

Dawyck Botanic Garden, near Peebles in the Scottish Borders, is a renowned 65-acre arboretum celebrated for its exceptional collection of rare and ancient trees, seasonal floral displays, and woodland and burnside walks. With over 300 years of tree planting history, it features towering Douglas firs, giant redwoods, and the unique Dawyck beech. The garden offers year-round natural beauty, themed trails, a pioneering Cryptogamic Sanctuary, and a welcoming visitor centre with café and shop.

A brief summary to Dawyck Botanic Garden

Peebles, Stobo, EH45 9JU, GB
+441721760254
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Visit in May and June to see the vibrant Azalea Terrace in full bloom.
February offers stunning carpets of snowdrops along the burnside.
Wear sturdy footwear as some paths are steep and grassy, especially after rain.
Take time to explore the Cryptogamic Sanctuary, a unique reserve for mosses and fungi.
Enjoy refreshments at the accessible visitor centre café, which offers indoor and outdoor seating.

Getting There

Car

Driving from Edinburgh to Dawyck Botanic Garden takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes via the A702 and B712. Parking is available on-site free of charge. Note that rural roads can be narrow and winding.
Bus

Local bus services run from Peebles to Stobo village, about 3 km from the garden, with a journey time of 20 to 30 minutes. From Stobo, a taxi or a 40-minute walk on country roads is required. Bus frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance.
Train and Taxi

The nearest train station is in Galashiels, about 20 km away. From there, taxis can reach Dawyck Botanic Garden in approximately 30 minutes. Train travel from Edinburgh to Galashiels takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Dawyck Botanic Garden location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Cold Weather

Discover more about Dawyck Botanic Garden

Historic Roots and Botanical Heritage

Dawyck Botanic Garden traces its origins back over three centuries, beginning with pioneering tree planting by families who transformed the landscape around their estate near Stobo. The garden evolved through the efforts of the Veitch family and Sir John Murray Naesmyth, who planted thousands of acres of mixed woodland. Notably, the Dawyck beech was identified here as a distinct species. Today, as part of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh network, Dawyck continues this legacy by cultivating and conserving a remarkable variety of trees and plants from across the globe.

Exceptional Arboretum and Plant Collections

Spanning 65 acres of north-west facing hillside, Dawyck is celebrated as one of the world’s finest arboreta. Visitors can wander among some of Britain’s tallest and oldest trees, including Douglas firs, Scots pines, giant redwoods, and rare Chinese conifers. The garden also showcases bold herbaceous plantings along the burn, with spectacular seasonal highlights such as carpets of snowdrops in February, swathes of bluebells in spring, vibrant azaleas and rhododendrons in early summer, and stunning autumn foliage.

Unique Features and Conservation Efforts

Dawyck is home to the world’s first Cryptogamic Sanctuary, dedicated to mosses, liverworts, lichens, and fungi, reflecting its commitment to botanical research and conservation. The garden serves as a sanctuary for endangered species, nurturing a living collection that supports scientific study and public education. Themed trails celebrate historic plant hunters like David Douglas, whose legacy includes the famous Douglas fir, enriching visitors’ understanding of botanical exploration.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

The garden’s varied terrain offers woodland and burnside walks with a complex network of paths, some steep in places, providing a rich sensory experience through sights, scents, and sounds of nature. The award-winning visitor centre is fully accessible, featuring a café with indoor and outdoor seating serving refreshments and light meals, and a well-stocked shop offering gifts, plants, and gardening items. Seasonal guided and themed walks enhance the visitor experience, with opportunities to enjoy the garden’s beauty throughout the year.

Setting and Scenic Appeal

Nestled in a picturesque glen near the River Tweed, Dawyck Botanic Garden enjoys a continental climate that allows an extraordinary diversity of plants to thrive. The garden’s hillside location provides scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere, making it a peaceful retreat in the Scottish Borders countryside. Sculptures and art trails add cultural interest, while the natural surroundings invite mindfulness and rejuvenation.

Botanical Significance and Global Connections

Dawyck’s collections include champion trees and national plant collections such as Larix and Tsuga species. Its international scope features plants from Nepal, China, Chile, and North America, reflecting centuries of botanical exchange. The garden’s role in conservation and education positions it as a vital link between Scotland and the wider botanical world, inspiring visitors with its rich plant diversity and historical depth.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

The Dawyck Cafe

0.2 km

A warm, light-filled cafe in the heart of Dawyck Botanic Garden, serving seasonal soups, sandwiches, and excellent home baking with views over 65 acres of woodland.

The Neidpath Inn

9.4 km

Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at The Neidpath Inn, featuring cozy accommodations, local cuisine, and vibrant live music in the heart of Peebles.

The Tontine Hotel

9.6 km

Historic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Peebles, with excellent dining and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.

Blackwood & Smith LLP, Solicitors & Estate Agents

9.6 km

Explore Peebles with Blackwood & Smith LLP, your trusted experts in legal services and estate agency for a seamless property experience.

Blackwood & Smith LLP, Solicitors & Estate Agents

Peebles Mercat Cross

9.8 km

Historic octagonal stone monument marking Peebles’ medieval market rights and civic heritage, adorned with unique carvings and a 17th-century sundial.

The Park

9.9 km

Historic charm and modern comfort meet in the heart of Peebles, with local dining and scenic walks just steps away.

Peebles Hydro Hotel

10.4 km

Historic 4-star hotel with scenic Tweed Valley views, family-friendly leisure, spa, and classic Scottish hospitality in Peebles.

Eshiels Community Recycling Centre

11.2 km

Discover Eshiels Community Recycling Centre: A sustainable initiative in Peebles promoting responsible waste management and eco-friendly practices.

Macdonald Cardrona Hotel

13.1 km

Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, your perfect Scottish retreat in Peebles.

Barony Castle Hotel

13.6 km

Historic 16th-century castle hotel near Peebles with luxury spa, acclaimed dining, and scenic grounds featuring the Great Polish Map of Scotland.

Traquair Arms Hotel

16.0 km

Historic 200-year-old coach house hotel and gastro pub offering cozy rooms, hearty local cuisine, and warm hospitality in scenic Innerleithen.

James Hogg Monument

16.3 km

A striking white monument honoring James Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd, overlooking the serene St Mary's Loch in Scotland's Borders.

Biking In The Borders

16.4 km

A spacious, cyclist-friendly holiday home in Innerleithen, perfect for exploring the iconic trails of the Scottish Borders.

Covington Tower

19.9 km

Discover the historical charm of Covington Tower in Biggar, Scotland, a medieval landmark steeped in rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

Hirendean Castle

20.4 km

Discover the evocative ruins of Hirendean Castle, a 16th-century peel tower nestled in Scotland’s serene Moorfoot Hills with rich history and haunting legends.

Explore Borders heritage and art in a historic 16th-century building with free admission and engaging exhibitions year-round.

Essential places to dine

From Scratch Restaurant

9.3 km

A family-run dining gem at Peebles Golf Club, serving hearty British and Scottish fare with warm hospitality and lovely course views.

Bridge Inn

9.5 km

Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at Bridge Inn, Peebles' cozy pub with local ales and hearty meals.

Franco’s

9.5 km

Cozy family-run Italian restaurant in Peebles offering authentic pizzas, pasta, and vegan-friendly dishes with scenic riverside views.

The Cozy Kitchen

9.5 km

Exceptional homemade bakes and specialty coffee in Peebles' most welcoming Old Town sanctuary.

Coltman's Kitchen, Deli & Bar

9.6 km

Fresh seasonal fare and relaxed dining with scenic River Tweed views in the heart of Peebles’ historic High Street.

Prince of India

9.6 km

Experience authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in the heart of Peebles with warm hospitality and a diverse menu.

The Crown Hotel

9.6 km

Historic charm meets modern comfort at The Crown Hotel, Peebles’ cozy and welcoming base in the Scottish Borders.

The County

9.7 km

A cozy, dog-friendly pub in Peebles serving hearty food and warm hospitality in the heart of the Scottish Borders.

Mandarin Garden

9.7 km

Experience authentic Cantonese and Hong Kong flavors with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Peebles.

Jim Jack's Fish & Chips - Peebles

9.8 km

Classic Scottish fish and chips served fresh and crispy in the heart of Peebles with friendly, made-to-order service.

The Cross Keys - Peebles

9.8 km

A historic and welcoming hotel in Peebles offering cozy rooms, a lively pub, and a perfect base for exploring the Scottish Borders.

Lychee Chinese Restaurant in Peebles

9.9 km

Authentic Chinese flavors and friendly service come together in Peebles’ cozy Lychee Chinese Restaurant, perfect for evening dining and takeaway.

Green Tree Hotel

9.9 km

Experience comfort and warmth at Green Tree Hotel in Peebles – your ideal base for exploring Scotland's breathtaking landscapes.

The Sutherland Restaurant

11.2 km

French fine dining in a historic Scottish country house, where exceptional cuisine meets impeccable service.

The Courtyard Cafe at Kailzie Gardens

11.7 km

A charming cafe nestled in Kailzie Gardens offering fresh seasonal dishes, warm hospitality, and a peaceful courtyard setting near Peebles.

Vintage finds and second-hand treasures supporting disability services across Scotland.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Central Bar

9.8 km

A cozy and friendly bar in Peebles offering a warm welcome, local drinks, and lively social nights in the heart of the Scottish Borders.

Wild Bean Cafe

10.0 km

Cozy cafe in Peebles serving fresh coffee, pastries, and light meals daily from dawn till late evening.

The Handlebar & Grill Glentress

12.2 km

A cyclist-friendly grill in Glentress offering hearty local dishes, craft beers, and scenic outdoor dining amidst the Tweed Valley’s stunning trails.

Cross Keys

13.2 km

A traditional Scottish pub in Biggar offering hearty fare, quality drinks, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere where friendships are forged.

Durty Brewing

16.0 km

Discover Innerleithen’s vibrant microbrewery with exclusive craft beers, a cozy taproom, and a welcoming atmosphere for all drink lovers.

Tibbie Shiels Inn

16.4 km

Historic inn and camping by St. Marys Loch offering cosy rooms, live music, and stunning Scottish Borders scenery.

The Village Inn

19.8 km

A cozy, traditional Scottish pub in Thankerton offering hearty local fare, warm hospitality, and a welcoming village atmosphere.

Masons Arms

21.9 km

A cozy and friendly village pub in Carnwath offering classic dishes, welcoming atmosphere, and comfortable rooms for a true Scottish experience.

The Last Shift Braehead

26.4 km

A welcoming village pub in Braehead offering classic British fare, real ales, and a cozy atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.

The Inns

29.2 km

A cozy, affordable Scottish pub and restaurant on Main Street, Forth, perfect for hearty meals and friendly gatherings.

Philipburn House Hotel

29.5 km

Historic Georgian charm meets modern comfort in tranquil gardens just outside Selkirk, ideal for exploring the scenic Scottish Borders.

Horse & Jockey Bar

29.7 km

A welcoming Lanark pub blending historic charm with hearty food and lively drinks in the town centre.

Maisies Bar

29.8 km

A cozy and friendly pub in Lanark’s heart, offering a warm welcome and great drinks in an intimate setting.

The Courtyard Wine Bar

29.9 km

Discover Lanark’s cozy hidden wine bar with excellent wines, tapas, and a charming heated outdoor courtyard for year-round enjoyment.

The Wallace Cave

29.9 km

A cosy, friendly pub in Lanark’s heart offering a warm Scottish welcome with great drinks and local charm.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Dawyck Botanic Garden: A World-Class Arboretum in the Scottish Borders

A brief summary to Dawyck Botanic Garden

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Car

Bus

Train and Taxi

Dawyck Botanic Garden location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Dawyck Botanic Garden

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Dawyck Botanic Garden

Historic Roots and Botanical Heritage

Exceptional Arboretum and Plant Collections

Unique Features and Conservation Efforts

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Setting and Scenic Appeal

Botanical Significance and Global Connections

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

The Dawyck Cafe

The Neidpath Inn

The Tontine Hotel

Blackwood & Smith LLP, Solicitors & Estate Agents

Peebles Mercat Cross

The Park

Peebles Hydro Hotel

Eshiels Community Recycling Centre

Macdonald Cardrona Hotel

Barony Castle Hotel

Traquair Arms Hotel

James Hogg Monument

Biking In The Borders

Covington Tower

Hirendean Castle

Unmissable attractions to see

Stobo Castle Health Spa

Stobo Kirk

Manor Water

Neidpath Castle

The Meldons

Hay Lodge Park

Peebles Cemetery

The Cauld, River Tweed, Peebles

Peebles Old Parish Church

Cocoa Black

The Oven Door

Go Tweed Valley Visitor Information Centre

Peebles Burgh Hall

Cross Kirk

Tweeddale Museum & Gallery

Essential places to dine

From Scratch Restaurant

Bridge Inn

Franco’s

The Cozy Kitchen

Coltman's Kitchen, Deli & Bar

Prince of India

The Crown Hotel

The County

Mandarin Garden

Jim Jack's Fish & Chips - Peebles

The Cross Keys - Peebles

Lychee Chinese Restaurant in Peebles

Green Tree Hotel

The Sutherland Restaurant

The Courtyard Cafe at Kailzie Gardens

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Harbro Country Store

On A Shoestring

Castle Warehouse Ltd

Castle Warehouse Cookshop

House Of Gaia

Out & About

Time & Tide

Tiger Lily Gifts

Caledonia Lifestyle

RSVP Store

Wilkies of Peebles