Inverness Botanic Gardens and Café
A vibrant botanical haven in Inverness offering diverse plant collections, tranquil gardens, and a cozy café in a scenic riverside setting.
Nestled in the heart of Inverness on Bught Lane, the Inverness Botanic Gardens offer a serene escape with diverse plant collections, seasonal floral displays, and two distinctive glasshouses—the Tropical House and Cactus House. Free to enter with a donation welcome, the gardens feature formal and secret gardens, a community GROW project, and a café serving delightful refreshments, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and families alike.
A brief summary to Inverness Botanic Gardens and Café
- Bught Ln, Inverness, IV3 5SS, GB
- +441463701019
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Entry is free, but donations are appreciated to support garden maintenance and activities.
- Visit the Tropical and Cactus Houses to experience contrasting plant environments under glass.
- Enjoy refreshments at Café Botanics, which offers indoor seating in a greenhouse atmosphere and outdoor options.
- Explore the Secret Garden maintained by the GROW project, featuring wildflower meadows and child-friendly areas.
- Plan your visit during October to join the fun Halloween Trail, ideal for families with children.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Inverness city center to Bught Lane, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, with a single fare costing around £2.50. The stop is within a short walk of the gardens' entrance.
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Taxi
Taxi rides from Inverness city center to the Botanic Gardens take about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10. Taxis are readily available throughout the city and provide a convenient option for visitors with limited mobility.
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Walking
For those staying in central Inverness, a scenic 25-30 minute walk along the River Ness leads to the gardens. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Inverness Botanic Gardens and Café location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Inverness Botanic Gardens and Café
A Living Oasis in Inverness
The Inverness Botanic Gardens sit peacefully beside the River Ness, providing a lush, green sanctuary within the city. Established as a scientific and educational garden, it showcases a wide variety of plants from across the globe. Visitors can wander through the formal gardens, where seasonal blooms create a vibrant tapestry of colors and textures that evolve throughout the year. The gardens' layout encourages exploration, with winding paths leading to tranquil spots perfect for reflection or photography.Glasshouses: Tropical and Arid Worlds
Two adjoining glasshouses form the centerpiece of the gardens. The Tropical House envelops visitors in warmth and humidity, housing an impressive collection of tropical plants that thrive in such climates. In contrast, the Cactus House offers a bright, dry environment showcasing an array of cacti and succulents. These glasshouses provide an immersive experience, highlighting the diversity of plant life and the adaptability of flora to different ecosystems.The Secret Garden and Community Engagement
Beyond the main displays lies the Secret Garden, a special area maintained by the GROW project, which supports adults with learning disabilities. This garden features wildflower meadows, fruit trees, vegetable beds, herb gardens, and even bug hotels. It also includes child-friendly elements like a teepee and a jungle path, making it a welcoming space for families and community members to connect with nature and sustainable gardening practices.Café Botanics and Visitor Amenities
The on-site Café Botanics complements the garden experience with a selection of soups, sandwiches, cakes, and specialty teas and coffees. Whether you choose to dine indoors in the greenhouse setting or outside amid the gardens, the café offers a relaxing spot to refresh. Additionally, a plant shop allows visitors to purchase indoor and outdoor plants, supporting the gardens' upkeep and encouraging botanical enthusiasm beyond the visit.Year-Round Appeal and Special Events
Open daily from 9:30 AM to 3:45 PM, the gardens welcome visitors throughout the year. Seasonal changes bring new colors and scents, ensuring a fresh experience with every visit. In October, the gardens host a family-friendly Halloween Trail, featuring quizzes and drawing activities that engage younger visitors. The accessible paths also make the gardens suitable for wheelchairs and those with limited mobility.A Hub for Learning and Relaxation
More than a tourist attraction, Inverness Botanic Gardens serve as a community hub and educational resource. The gardens offer training and workshops, fostering a deeper appreciation for horticulture and conservation. Whether seeking a peaceful stroll, an inspiring photowalk, or a cultural outing, visitors find a rich and welcoming environment that celebrates the natural world and community spirit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lochardil House
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Torrish at Ness Walk
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Ness Walk Hotel - 5 Star Luxury Inverness Hotel
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Great War Memorial
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Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel Inverness
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Rowan Guest House Group Ltd
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Rocpool Reserve Hotel
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Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments
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Ness Bank Church
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Highland Scenery
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Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa
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Start/Finish of Great Glen way, Inverness
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Highland Historical Home
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Inverness Bike Tours
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Urquhart's Restaurant
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Unmissable attractions to see
Inverness Leisure
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The Highlands’ largest leisure centre offering pools, gym, athletics, climbing, and wellness facilities for all ages and abilities.
Highland Archive Centre
0.2 km
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Whin Park
0.3 km
A revitalized riverside park in Inverness blending inclusive play, boating, and scenic walks for families and nature lovers.
Inverness Crazy Golf
0.3 km
Riverside mini-golf fun for all ages in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Ness Islands Railway Ltd
0.3 km
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Concrete Hippos
0.3 km
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Memory of Jock Dyce
0.5 km
A tranquil tribute in Inverness honoring Jock Dyce’s legacy through storytelling and reflection amid peaceful surroundings.
Hame Tours
0.5 km
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Bught Park Pitches
0.5 km
A vibrant sports and cultural hub in Inverness, home to shinty’s finest stadium and the annual Highland Games.
Tomnahurich Cemetery Hill
0.5 km
A Victorian cemetery on Inverness’s Fairy Hill blending history, haunting folklore, and panoramic Highland views.
Hydro Ness
0.5 km
Discover Hydro Ness, Inverness’s innovative hydroelectric project blending sustainability, education, and scenic riverside charm.
Holm Mills Shopping Village
0.6 km
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Circle of Wise
0.6 km
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Ness Islands
0.6 km
Victorian-bridged islands of ancient woodland, where Inverness melts into pristine nature.
Pier Ness Viewpoint
0.8 km
A tranquil riverside platform offering stunning panoramic views of the River Ness and lush Ness Islands in the heart of Inverness.
Essential places to dine
Black BX Food
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Loch Ness House Beefeater
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Contrast Brasserie Inverness
1.3 km
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The Waterside Restaurant
1.4 km
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Tiger on The Wall
1.5 km
Authentic Indian and Asian flavors served daily in the heart of Inverness at Tiger on The Wall, Strathness House’s celebrated restaurant.
Hou Hou Mei
1.6 km
Discover Hou Hou Mei, Inverness’s vibrant Asian fusion restaurant blending Thai, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese flavors with generous vegan options.
Encore
1.6 km
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La Tortilla
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Experience authentic Spanish tapas and paella in Inverness’s oldest and most beloved tapas bar, blending vibrant flavors with Highland charm.
The Kitchen Restaurant
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Cafe 1
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Zizzi - Inverness
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nar
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Coyote Burger
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Number 27 Bar and Kitchen
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Aye Eat
1.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
James Pringle Weavers
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Discover authentic Scottish weaving heritage and quality textiles at James Pringle Weavers in the historic Holm Woollen Mills, Inverness.
Dalneigh Stores
1.1 km
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The Merchant
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Discover Inverness’s hidden antique gem blending vintage treasures with modern charm on Greig Street.
Highland House of Fraser
1.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish Highland dress and witness traditional kilt making at Highland House of Fraser in Inverness, a family-run heritage landmark.
Rouge Boutiques
1.7 km
Discover personalized style and expert fittings at Rouge Boutiques, Inverness’ destination for elegant womenswear and exceptional service.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
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Discover authentic Scottish woollens and heritage craftsmanship at James Pringle Weavers in the heart of Inverness.
The Whisky Shop
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Judith Glue
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GLENEAGLES OF SCOTLAND
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Primark
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Edinburgh Woollen Mill
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House of Highlands
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Bluebells Of The Glen Souvenirs & Gifts Shop
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Thistle Do Nicely
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Gifts & Souvenirs SALE
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Wee Bar
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Glenalbyn Bar
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Lauders
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Highlander
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MacCallums Bar
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The Malt Room
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R&Bs
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Market Bar
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The Gunsmiths Bar
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Three Witches
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The Walrus & Corkscrew
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Xplosive Discos
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Seaforth Club
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Jackos Bar & Diner
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the Balavoulin
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The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar
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The Vault
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Mambos
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The Aviemore Inn pub and grill
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Woodshed Bar
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SUIE BAR
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The Pine Marten Bar
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Moray Jazz Club
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Shmelgin
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
