Dawyck Botanic Garden: A World-Class Arboretum in the Scottish Borders
Explore Dawyck Botanic Garden’s world-class arboretum with towering trees, vibrant seasonal blooms, and tranquil woodland walks in the Scottish Borders.
Set within 65 acres of enchanting woodland and burnside walks near Peebles, Dawyck Botanic Garden is one of the world’s finest arboreta. Renowned for its seasonal displays including snowdrops, bluebells, azaleas, and Himalayan poppies, it features towering trees like the Dawyck Beech and giant redwoods. The garden serves as a sanctuary for rare and endangered species, offering themed trails, a cryptogamic sanctuary, and an award-winning visitor centre with café and shop.
A brief summary to Dawyck Botanic Garden
- Peebles, Stobo, EH45 9JU, GB
- +441721760254
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy, comfortable footwear as the garden terrain is steep and hilly in places.
- Visit in spring for snowdrops and bluebells or in autumn for spectacular foliage colors.
- Take advantage of accessible paths and wheelchair availability by booking in advance if needed.
- Don’t miss the Cryptogamic Sanctuary, the world’s first dedicated to mosses, lichens, and fungi.
- Relax at the award-winning café offering indoor and outdoor seating with gluten-free and vegan options.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Peebles, the garden is approximately 20 minutes via the B712. Parking is available on-site free of charge. Note the terrain is hilly, so prepare for some walking on slopes. Electric vehicle charging is available powered by hydroelectricity.
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Bus
Regional bus services connect Peebles to Stobo village near Dawyck Garden. From the bus stop, expect a 30–40 minute walk on uneven terrain to the garden entrance. Bus frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance.
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Taxi
Taxis from Peebles to Dawyck Botanic Garden take about 15–20 minutes. This option offers door-to-door convenience, especially for visitors with mobility concerns. Expect fares around £20–£30 GBP.
Dawyck Botanic Garden 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
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Dawyck Botanic Garden
Historic Legacy and Botanical Richness
Dawyck Botanic Garden, part of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, boasts over 300 years of tree planting history, making it a world-famous arboretum. Located near Peebles in the Scottish Borders, the garden’s continental climate allows a diverse range of plants from Nepal, China, Chile, and North America to thrive. Among its celebrated specimens are the iconic Dawyck Beech, towering Douglas firs, Scots pines, and majestic giant redwoods, some reaching heights over 150 feet. The garden also holds national plant collections such as Larix and Tsuga species, and numerous champion trees.Seasonal Displays and Themed Trails
Visitors can enjoy year-round botanical displays that change with the seasons. Early spring brings carpets of delicate snowdrops and drifts of bluebells, while late spring and early summer showcase vibrant azaleas, rhododendrons, and the magical Himalayan blue poppies on the Azalea Terrace. Autumn is spectacular with a tapestry of reds, golds, and browns from maples, rowans, and other trees. Themed trails recount the adventures of pioneering plant hunters like David Douglas, whose name is immortalized in the Douglas fir, enriching the visitor experience with botanical heritage.Unique Conservation and Research Features
Dawyck is home to the world’s first Cryptogamic Sanctuary, dedicated to mosses, liverworts, lichens, and fungi. This sanctuary highlights the garden’s role as a conservation hub, nurturing endangered species and supporting botanical research. The garden’s living collection is carefully managed to balance conservation with public enjoyment, making it an important site for both science and leisure.Visitor Experience and Amenities
The garden’s terrain is notably hilly and steep in places, offering invigorating walks through woodland and along the burnside. While some paths are challenging, accessible routes and facilities are provided, including wheelchair availability, accessible toilets, and seating areas throughout. The award-winning visitor centre houses a café with indoor and outdoor seating, offering refreshments including gluten-free and vegan options. The shop features botanical gifts, gardening items, and plants, supporting the garden’s charitable mission.Setting and Atmosphere
Nestled in a picturesque glen, Dawyck Botanic Garden offers tranquil natural beauty with tumbling streams and abundant wildlife such as hares and pheasants. The garden’s rustic and historic character is enhanced by its mature trees and naturalistic plantings rather than formal beds. The peaceful ambience invites mindfulness and nature escape, appealing to visitors seeking both relaxation and botanical discovery.Practical Information and Access
Open daily from February to November, Dawyck welcomes visitors from 10am to 5pm (4pm in February and November). Admission is approximately £9 for adults, with children under 15 admitted free. The garden is located about eight miles south of Peebles, accessible by car or regional bus services. Parking is available, and the garden encourages sustainable travel options including electric vehicle charging powered by hydroelectricity. Seasonal guided tours and special exhibitions add to the enriching visitor experience.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.
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Stobo Castle Health Spa
1.3 km
Scotland's premier adults-only destination spa—a castle sanctuary for complete wellness and tranquillity.
Stobo Kirk
2.7 km
Explore Stobo Kirk, a rare 12th-century Norman church dedicated to St Mungo, nestled in the serene Scottish Borders near Peebles.
Manor Water
4.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich heritage of Manor Water, a peaceful river winding through the scenic Manor Valley near Peebles.
Neidpath Castle
8.4 km
Discover Neidpath Castle, a majestic 14th-century tower house overlooking the River Tweed, rich in history, legends, and stunning medieval architecture.
The Meldons
8.5 km
Explore the tranquil twin hills of The Meldons near Peebles, where scenic views and peaceful nature await outdoor lovers and families.
Hay Lodge Park
9.0 km
Peebles’ largest riverside park, blending scenic walks, historic views, and family-friendly spaces along the tranquil Tweed.
Peebles Cemetery
9.3 km
Discover Peebles Cemetery, a serene historic burial ground featuring the ancient St Andrew's Tower amidst evocative gravestones in scenic Scottish Borders.
The Cauld, River Tweed, Peebles
9.3 km
A tranquil riverside haven along the historic River Tweed, blending natural beauty with centuries of borderland heritage.
Peebles Old Parish Church
9.5 km
A majestic Gothic Revival church standing proudly on Peebles’ historic High Street, blending centuries of heritage and stunning artistry.
Cocoa Black
9.5 km
Indulge in handcrafted chocolates and exquisite cakes at Peebles’ beloved Cocoa Black boutique and café.
The Oven Door
9.7 km
Charming courtyard café in Peebles offering homemade bakes, fresh sourdough, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Go Tweed Valley Visitor Information Centre
9.7 km
Your welcoming gateway to explore the stunning landscapes, culture, and activities of Scotland’s Tweed Valley from Peebles High Street.
Peebles Burgh Hall
9.7 km
Historic Peebles Burgh Hall blends rich heritage with vibrant community spirit in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
Cross Kirk
9.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Cross Kirk, a medieval pilgrimage church in Peebles steeped in sacred relics and centuries of Scottish history.
Tweeddale Museum & Gallery
9.7 km
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Harbro Country Store
8.7 km
Your trusted rural supply store in Peebles, offering expert animal feed, pet care, gardening essentials, and equestrian supplies.
On A Shoestring
9.5 km
Affordable quality footwear in the historic heart of Peebles’ Old Town, blending style, comfort, and local charm.
Castle Warehouse Ltd
9.5 km
Family-run independent department store in Peebles offering diverse clothing, homeware, and gifts in a historic setting.
Castle Warehouse Cookshop
9.5 km
Discover a treasure trove of kitchen gadgets, quality cookware, and unique bakeware hire in the heart of Peebles at Castle Warehouse Cookshop.
House Of Gaia
9.5 km
Crystals, spirituality, and tranquility in the heart of Peebles' High Street.
Out & About
9.6 km
Discover the best outdoor gear at Out & About in Peebles, where adventure meets quality clothing and equipment for every explorer.
Time & Tide
9.6 km
Explore Time & Tide in Peebles for unique gifts, homewares, and local crafts that embody the spirit of Scotland.
Tiger Lily Gifts
9.6 km
Discover unique, quality gifts in the heart of Peebles at Tiger Lily Gifts, your boutique destination for special treasures.
Caledonia Lifestyle
9.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish tweed and lambswool craftsmanship at Caledonia Lifestyle, a charming boutique in the heart of Peebles.
RSVP Store
9.6 km
Party supplies and celebration essentials in the heart of Peebles' charming High Street.
Wilkies of Peebles
9.6 km
Discover timeless fashion and quality outerwear at Wilkies, Peebles’ beloved High Street clothing shop blending tradition with style.
Head To Toe
9.6 km
Discover beautiful gifts and warm hospitality at Head To Toe, a cherished shop on Peebles’ historic High Street since 1989.
Herringbone Gift Shop and Number Fifty Six Tea & Coffee House
9.6 km
Artisan coffee and curated gifts in a charming Peebles townhouse.
Scott Brothers
9.7 km
A beloved family-run hardware shop in Peebles offering a vast range of home, garden, and DIY essentials with expert local service since 1891.
Sense Scotland
9.7 km
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Union Club
16.0 km
A friendly, community-run social club with snooker and events, offering a welcoming and affordable night out in Innerleithen.
The Vale Of Leithen Social Club
16.3 km
A friendly members' club in Innerleithen offering live music, affordable drinks, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Indigo Rooms
32.2 km
Experience Galashiels' vibrant nightlife at The Indigo Rooms, a welcoming nightclub and bar with themed events and a lively atmosphere.
Warehouse Nightclub
32.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.
Grand Central
35.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and diverse events at Grand Central, Livingston's premier events venue for unforgettable nights out.
West Lothian Casting Agency
37.8 km
Discover the vibrant adult entertainment scene at West Lothian Casting Agency, where immersive performances and themed events await every visitor.
Volunteer Arms Lounge Bistro
38.1 km
A friendly, moderately priced lounge bistro in Uphall offering home-cooked meals, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
DreadnoughtRock Nightclub & Live Music Venue
38.5 km
Experience the pulse of Bathgate's nightlife at DreadnoughtRock, the ultimate live music venue and nightclub in the heart of the city.
Morven
38.7 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.
Midnight Breakfast Club
38.7 km
A cozy live music venue and bar in Bathgate known for great tribute acts, strong drinks, and a friendly, lively atmosphere.
Club Tropicana
38.9 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
The Twig Nightclub
38.9 km
Bathgate’s oldest nightclub offering lively, affordable, and historic nightlife experiences every Saturday night.
Frankenstein
38.9 km
Electrifying Gothic pub where Frankenstein's monster awakens hourly amid pizzas, chilling cocktails, and Old Town vibes—Edinburgh's spookiest nightlife haunt.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
39.0 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
The Bongo Club
39.0 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly