Sheffield Botanical Gardens
A Victorian-era oasis of themed gardens, rare plants and elegant glass pavilions, just a short walk from Sheffield city centre.
Spread across 19 acres just southwest of Sheffield city centre, the Sheffield Botanical Gardens are a peaceful Victorian-era oasis of themed gardens, rare plants, and elegant glass pavilions. Open daily with free entry, the gardens feature a rose garden, magnolia avenue, tropical glasshouses, and a prairie-style planting, all laid out on a gently sloping site. It’s a favourite green escape for locals and visitors, ideal for quiet walks, picnics, photography, and learning about horticulture in a beautifully maintained historic landscape.
A brief summary to Botanical Gardens
- Clarkehouse Rd, Sheffield, Broomhall, S10 2LN, GB
- +441142686001
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-7:45 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-7:45 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-7:45 pm
- Thursday 8 am-7:45 pm
- Friday 8 am-7:45 pm
- Saturday 10 am-7:45 pm
- Sunday 10 am-7:45 pm
Local tips
- Visit the glass pavilions early in the day when they’re less crowded and the light is soft; bring a small bottle of water as the tropical house can feel warm and humid.
- Pick up a map at the Dorothy Fox Education Centre or use the gardens’ online plant database on your phone to locate specific trees and themed areas as you explore.
- Check the gardens’ events calendar before your visit; special events like art installations or seasonal illuminations can transform the atmosphere in the evening.
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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Public Transport
Regular buses run from Sheffield city centre to Clarkehouse Road and Ecclesall Road, with stops within a short walk of the main entrance on Clarkehouse Road and the Thompson Road entrance. Journey time from the city centre is typically 10–20 minutes, depending on the route and traffic.
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Walking
From Sheffield city centre, it’s about a 25–35 minute walk southwest along Ecclesall Road to the Thompson Road entrance, or via Clarkehouse Road to the main entrance. The route is mostly on pavements with some gentle inclines.
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Car
There is no public parking inside the gardens, but limited on‑street parking is available near the Thompson Road and Clarkehouse Road entrances. A privately operated car park is located across from the gardens at Berkeley Precinct, a short walk from the main entrance.
Botanical Gardens 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 Botanical Gardens
A Victorian Garden Reborn
Laid out in 1836 by the influential landscape designer Robert Marnock, Sheffield Botanical Gardens were created as a place of beauty, education, and respite for the growing industrial city. The original 19-acre site was carefully designed with winding paths, formal avenues, and distinct garden areas, reflecting the Victorian passion for botany and order in nature. Over the decades the gardens declined, but a major restoration effort in the late 20th and early 21st centuries brought them back to life. Today, they stand as a Grade II listed landscape, preserving Marnock’s vision while adapting to modern needs, with a strong community and charitable trust ensuring their long-term care.Exploring the Gardens Within the Gardens
The layout invites slow exploration, with more than 18 distinct garden areas loosely grouped by geography or plant type. A formal avenue of magnolias is a highlight in late spring, while the rose garden offers classic and modern varieties in summer. The Rock and Water Garden, Himalayan Garden, and Four Seasons Garden each have their own character, from alpine plants to moisture-loving species. The prairie-style planting, designed in 2004, brings a more naturalistic, meadow-like feel with tall grasses and perennials. Throughout, there are sculptures, historical tablets, and quiet corners that reward a slow, attentive walk.The Glass Pavilions and Plant Collections
At the heart of the gardens are the Grade II* listed glass pavilions, designed by Benjamin Broomhead Taylor. Restored and reopened in 2003, these elegant Victorian structures house collections of temperate and tropical plants, including cacti, ferns, and exotic specimens. The humid tropical house is a particular delight, with banana trees and lush foliage creating a small pocket of warmth and greenery. The gardens also hold national plant collections, including Sarcococca, Weigela, and Diervilla, making them a destination for serious plant enthusiasts as well as casual visitors.A Place for Everyone
With free entry and well-maintained, gently sloping paths, the gardens are accessible and welcoming to all. Families enjoy the open lawns for picnics and play, while dog walkers and runners appreciate the network of paths. The onsite cafe in the Curator’s House offers refreshments, and there are toilets and seating areas scattered throughout. Special events, from art exhibitions to seasonal illuminations, add another layer of interest, while guided tours and talks by the Friends of the Botanical Gardens provide deeper insight into the history, design, and plant life of this cherished Sheffield green space.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lost & Found Sheffield
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lost & Found Sheffield, a charming bar and pub with creative cocktails, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Friesday Belgian Fries
0.6 km
Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
The Endcliffe Campus
0.6 km
A vibrant student village blending modern living, social hubs, and green spaces at the University of Sheffield’s Endcliffe Campus.
Godfrey Sykes Memorial
1.2 km
Victorian design genius immortalised in terracotta—Sheffield's tribute to a master craftsman.
Sheffield War Memorial
1.9 km
A solemn and iconic Grade II* listed cenotaph in Sheffield city centre, honoring the city's wartime sacrifices with striking sculptures and historic symbolism.
Green Police Box
2.1 km
Sheffield’s unique green and white police box, a charming relic of early 20th-century policing, stands proudly outside the Town Hall as a symbol of local heritage.
The Museum
2.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Museum, Sheffield's beloved pub and restaurant, where local flavors meet a lively social scene.
King Edward VII Statue
2.5 km
A majestic 1913 bronze statue in Sheffield’s Fitzalan Square, honoring King Edward VII with rich allegorical reliefs celebrating peace, unity, and philanthropy.
Kelham Central
2.5 km
Experience modern urban living at Kelham Central, Sheffield's innovative housing development, blending sustainability with community spirit.
Kelham Island Walks
2.5 km
Discover Kelham Island, Sheffield’s historic steelmaking heart transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, craft beer, and urban charm.
The Chimney House
2.6 km
Award-winning industrial-chic venue in Kelham Island offering intimate events with exceptional food and warm hospitality in Sheffield.
Kelham Island Museum
2.6 km
Uncover the fascinating industrial history of Sheffield at Kelham Island Museum, featuring interactive exhibits, a café, and a unique gift shop.
Steel City Chapel Ltd
2.6 km
Discover the enchanting Steel City Chapel in Sheffield, a unique wedding venue blending historic charm with modern elegance for your special day.
The River Don Engine
2.6 km
Explore the River Don Engine in Sheffield, a fascinating museum celebrating the city's industrial heritage and engineering marvels.
Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood
2.6 km
Explore the serene Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood, a historical landmark in Sheffield offering beautiful nature and poignant history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rose Garden
0.1 km
Explore the Victorian elegance and fragrant beauty of Sheffield Botanical Gardens’ Rose Garden, featuring historic roses and the iconic Pan statue.
Botanical Gardens Fountain
0.1 km
A tranquil cast iron fountain centerpiece nestled within Sheffield's historic 19-acre Botanical Gardens, blending horticultural beauty with Victorian heritage.
Rock Garden
0.1 km
Discover the serene Rock Garden within Sheffield Botanical Gardens, a tranquil haven showcasing diverse alpine and rock plants in a beautifully designed natural setting.
The Glass Pavilions
0.1 km
Discover the historic Glass Pavilions in Sheffield Botanical Gardens, a Victorian masterpiece showcasing global temperate plants in stunning glasshouses.
Marnock Garden
0.1 km
Historic Victorian garden oasis in Sheffield with elegant glasshouses, diverse plants, and friendly wildlife for peaceful urban escape.
Bear pit
0.1 km
Discover the Bear Pit in Sheffield, a historical attraction that offers a glimpse into the city's past and a serene escape in a beautiful green setting.
The Well Sheffield
0.4 km
A welcoming Baptist church in Sheffield’s Sharrow district, blending modern worship with community spirit since 2015.
The Beer House
0.5 km
Sheffield’s pioneering micro pub offering cozy charm and an exceptional selection of real ales and craft beers on Ecclesall Road.
Sheffield Makers Hunters Bar
0.6 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures from Sheffield’s finest local makers at this vibrant Hunters Bar gift shop.
Endcliffe Park Playground
0.7 km
A beautifully refurbished, inclusive playground set within the historic and scenic Endcliffe Park, perfect for family fun and nature exploration.
Endcliffe Park
0.9 km
Victorian heritage park with woodland walks, historic monuments, and the poignant Mi Amigo memorial.
Turnip & Thyme
0.9 km
Cozy Sheffield bistro serving creative modern British dishes with seasonal flair and welcoming service on Ecclesall Road.
Weston Park Museum
1.1 km
Discover Sheffield’s rich heritage and natural wonders in the historic Weston Park Museum, a family-friendly cultural gem nestled in scenic Weston Park.
Weston Park
1.2 km
A historic Victorian park in Sheffield blending serene green spaces, cultural heritage, and recreational charm beside the Weston Park Museum.
Arts Tower
1.4 km
Discover Sheffield’s iconic Arts Tower, a brutalist masterpiece with the UK's largest paternoster lift and panoramic city views.
Essential places to dine
Joni at The Botanical Gardens
0.1 km
Garden café bliss: fresh brunches, lush views, and dog-friendly vibes in Sheffield's Botanical haven.
Maranello's Sheffield
0.4 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh seafood, rustic charm, and a warm atmosphere on Sheffield's vibrant Ecclesall Road.
Koko Restaurant
0.4 km
Sophisticated Pan-Asian dining with fresh sushi, vegan options, and warm service in Sheffield’s vibrant Sharrow district.
Zaap Thai Street Food Sheffield
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of authentic Thai street food in the heart of Sheffield’s Ecclesall Road.
Nonna's Sheffield
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Nonna's Sheffield, a vibrant culinary gem on Ecclesall Road.
Mowgli Street Food Sheffield
0.5 km
Experience authentic Indian street food flavors in a vibrant, market-inspired setting on Sheffield’s Ecclesall Road.
Akentannos
0.5 km
Discover authentic Sardinian cuisine in Sheffield’s Sharrow district, where tradition meets warm hospitality and inclusive dining.
Italian Kitchen
0.5 km
Modern Italian dining with fresh ingredients and generous portions in Sheffield’s vibrant Sharrow district.
Bella Donna Sicilian Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Sicilian flavors and warm hospitality combine in this cozy Sheffield gem, perfect for a genuine Italian dining experience.
Brocco Kitchen
0.5 km
Elegant Nordic-inspired dining in a charming Edwardian villa, offering fresh, seasonal dishes in Sheffield’s peaceful Brocco Bank neighborhood.
Uncle Sams Diner
0.5 km
Experience hearty American classics and friendly vibes at Uncle Sams Diner, a beloved Sheffield spot for juicy burgers and generous portions.
Thyme Café
0.6 km
Lively rustic café in Sheffield’s Broomhill serving seasonal modern European dishes with a warm, casual atmosphere and attentive service.
Butcher & Catch
0.6 km
Savor Sheffield’s finest modern British meat and seafood dishes in a warm, wood-panelled setting with bold flavors and generous portions.
Napoli Centro
0.9 km
Authentic Neapolitan pizza and unique Italian desserts in Sheffield’s vibrant Broomhall neighborhood.
Olive
1.0 km
Mediterranean-inspired dining with Italian and Moroccan flair, set in a warm, rustic Sheffield venue with artistic charm and attentive service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ringinglow Toys and Gifts
0.1 km
Explore the enchanting world of Ringinglow Toys and Gifts, where creativity and fun come together in Sheffield's beautiful Botanical Gardens.
SAYPALOMA
0.3 km
Ibiza-inspired ladies' fashion on Sheffield's trendiest stretch—discover boho-chic treasures at Saypaloma amid Ecclesall Road's indie buzz.
Cocoa Wonderland
0.4 km
Step into Sheffield's magical chocolate emporium, where handmade treats and cozy hot chocolates await in a wonderland of sweets and whimsy.
The Famous Sheffield Shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic Sheffield-forged cutlery and gifts at this iconic shop, preserving the city's steelmaking mastery since 1983 amid Ecclesall Road's vibrant charm.
Sister
0.4 km
Discover designer elegance at Sister, Sheffield's chic haven for women's fashion on lively Ecclesall Road.
Mookau
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan treasures in the vibrant heart of Sheffield’s Ecclesall Road at Mookau.
Trove
0.5 km
Uncover Sheffield's creative treasures at Trove, where local artistry and quirky gifts await on Sharrow Vale Road's charming stretch.
Spirals
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and exquisite greeting cards at Spirals, Sheffield's eclectic haven on bustling Ecclesall Road—perfect for thoughtful, one-of-a-kind treasures.
Oliver Bonas
0.6 km
Quirky British style on Sheffield's Ecclesall Road: gifts, fashion, jewellery, and homewares that spark joy in every discovery.
The Stock Exchange
0.6 km
A compact, curated women's boutique in Hunters Bar offering distinctive clothing and accessories in a friendly neighbourhood setting.
The Village Store
0.8 km
Discover The Village Store in Sheffield: Your go-to convenience stop for snacks, drinks, and local treats in a cozy atmosphere.
Sheffield Store
1.2 km
Affordable, stylish clothing with a charitable spirit at the heart of Sheffield University’s Students' Union.
Within Reason
1.5 km
Discover quirky gifts, jewelry, toys, and home treasures at this independent Sheffield gem on Devonshire Street—unique finds for every occasion.
True North Store
1.6 km
Discover Sheffield’s craft spirit heritage at True North Store, a hub for artisan gins and unique local gifts in the heart of the city centre.
Airy Fairy
1.6 km
Discover unique gifts and spiritual treasures in a cozy bohemian café setting at Sheffield’s Airy Fairy.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Monk Bar
0.4 km
Cool cocktail haven on Sheffield's trendy Ecclesall Road, serving inventive drinks, 2-for-1 happy hours, and industrial-chic vibes for intimate nights out.
Porter Brook
0.4 km
Traditional Sheffield pub with hearty grub, buzzing events, sunny beer garden, and dog-friendly vibes on lively Ecclesall Road.
The Local
0.4 km
A cosy Ecclesall Road microbar serving local ales, craft beers and neat cocktails in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
The Harritt wine bar
0.5 km
Cozy Sheffield wine bar with exceptional selections, cheeseboards, and personal service on vibrant Ecclesall Road – ideal for intimate evenings.
The Lescar
0.5 km
Vintage Sheffield pub pouring local ales, serving roasts and comedy in cozy wood-paneled rooms with a sunny beer garden—your Hunters Bar local gem.
The Portland House Bar
0.6 km
Sheffield's cozy micro pub gem: craft beers, live tunes, and quiz nights in a vibrant Ecclesall Road hideaway.
The Nursery Tavern
0.6 km
A friendly Ecclesall Road pub mixing classic tavern vibes with modern touches, a big beer garden and regular events for a casual Sheffield night out.
Kettle Black
0.6 km
Sheffield's premier cocktail haven with expert mixology, exclusive late license, and chic private spaces on vibrant Ecclesall Road.
Bar Lujo - Sheffield
0.6 km
Vibrant Sheffield cocktail bar with live DJs, terraces, and eclectic drinks on lively Ecclesall Road.
The Edge Bar
0.7 km
Vibrant University of Sheffield bar buzzing with pub grub, craft drinks, pool, darts, quizzes, and live sports in the heart of student residences.
Wildcard Bar and Grill
1.2 km
Sheffield's ultimate sports bar: 40+ screens, giant Jumbotron, epic American grill, shuffleboard, pool, and cocktails in luxury style.
The Dark Horse Bar
1.4 km
Sheffield's cozy fusion of pub warmth, cocktail flair, and burger bliss on vibrant Ecclesall Road—perfect for craft drinks and casual nights out.
Revolution Sheffield
1.4 km
Lively bar and grill in Sheffield’s West One Plaza with four unique bars, rooftop views, and expertly crafted cocktails.
Green Room Bar
1.5 km
A lively independent bar and live music venue in Sheffield’s city centre, known for great beers and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Wick at Both Ends
1.5 km
A warm, unpretentious cocktail bar in Sheffield city centre serving crafted drinks, lively music and a social, rustic interior.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Romantic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
