Marnock Garden at Sheffield Botanical Gardens
Historic Victorian garden oasis in Sheffield with elegant glasshouses, diverse plants, and friendly wildlife for peaceful urban escape.
Marnock Garden, nestled within the historic Sheffield Botanical Gardens, offers a tranquil and beautifully landscaped green space in Broomhall, Sheffield. Designed in the 19th century by renowned horticulturist Robert Marnock, this garden features elegant glass pavilions, diverse plant collections, and serene water features. It is an inviting spot for picnics, casual strolls, and wildlife watching, including friendly squirrels, making it a peaceful urban oasis.
A brief summary to Marnock Garden
- 26 Southgrove Rd, Sheffield, Broomhall, S10 2NQ, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during late spring to enjoy the Magnolia Avenue in full bloom and experience vibrant floral displays.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the many tranquil seating areas surrounded by diverse plant life.
- Check ahead for any maintenance closures of the glasshouses to ensure full access to all areas.
- Look out for the tame squirrels around the garden—they can be hand-fed and are a charming highlight.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Take Sheffield’s bus services 52 or 53 from the city center, which run approximately every 15 minutes and stop near Southgrove Road. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes. Tickets cost around £2.50 one way. Note that service frequency may reduce on weekends.
-
Tram and Walk
Use the Sheffield Supertram to the Broomhill stop, about 2 km from Marnock Garden. From there, enjoy a 25-minute walk through residential streets and local parks. The tram fare is approximately £3.00. The walking path is mostly flat but includes some pavement sections.
-
Car
Driving to Marnock Garden is possible with parking available on Southgrove Road and nearby streets. Travel time from Sheffield city center is around 10 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is generally free but can be limited during peak times.
Marnock Garden location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Marnock Garden
A Victorian Legacy of Botanical Beauty
Marnock Garden forms a key part of Sheffield Botanical Gardens, originally laid out in 1836 by Robert Marnock, a leading Victorian landscape designer. His vision created a garden that combines formal elegance with naturalistic planting styles, embodying the Gardenesque tradition. The garden’s curvilinear glass pavilions are among the earliest examples of this architectural style and remain a central feature, housing diverse plant species from temperate climates. This historic design continues to influence the garden’s layout and atmosphere, preserving a sense of 19th-century horticultural heritage.Distinctive Plant Collections and Themed Areas
Within Marnock Garden, visitors can explore a variety of themed sections, including the tropical glasshouse filled with exotic plants like banana trees and cacti, and formal gardens such as the Rose and Magnolia Gardens. The Rose Garden is particularly notable for its vibrant display and a bronze statue of Pan, the Spirit of the Woods, which adds artistic charm. The garden also features a Water Garden with linked ponds and a Prairie Garden, each offering unique botanical experiences. Labels on plants help visitors identify species, enhancing educational value.Wildlife and Community Connection
The garden is a haven for wildlife, especially the tame squirrels that are a delightful sight for visitors and can even be hand-fed. Bird species and other small creatures thrive in this green sanctuary, contributing to a tranquil and natural ambiance. The garden also serves as a community hub, hosting events and providing a peaceful retreat for locals and tourists alike. Its proximity to residential areas and hospitals makes it an accessible green space for relaxation and recreation.Architectural and Natural Features
Marnock Garden’s landscape includes noteworthy features such as the Bear Pit, a historic enclosure once home to bears, now a sculptural and botanical point of interest. The garden’s gently sloping terrain offers views over Sheffield and creates varied walking experiences. The four-tiered fountain and fossil tree stump, estimated to be 300 million years old, add layers of natural history and artistry to the setting. Seating areas are thoughtfully placed throughout, inviting visitors to pause and absorb the serene surroundings.Seasonal Splendor and Visitor Experience
Each season brings a fresh perspective to Marnock Garden. Spring bursts with colorful blossoms and fragrances, while autumn transforms the lawns into a tapestry of ochre and red hues. The garden’s maintenance ensures a pristine environment, though some indoor sections may occasionally close for upkeep. Nearby amenities such as a café and restrooms enhance visitor comfort. Whether for a quiet stroll, a picnic, or simply to enjoy nature’s rhythms, Marnock Garden offers a refreshing urban escape.Preservation and Modern Management
Today, Sheffield Botanical Gardens, including Marnock Garden, are managed by the Sheffield Corporation with ongoing restoration efforts to preserve its historic structures and plant collections. Renovations in the early 2000s restored the glass pavilions and improved infrastructure, ensuring the garden remains a cherished heritage site. This careful stewardship balances public access with conservation, maintaining the garden’s role as a vibrant green lung within the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lost & Found Sheffield
0.4 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
0.5 km
Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
The Endcliffe Campus
0.8 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
1.8 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
2.0 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
2.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Museum, Sheffield's beloved pub and restaurant, where local flavors meet a lively social scene.
Kelham Central
2.4 km
Experience modern urban living at Kelham Central, Sheffield's innovative housing development, blending sustainability with community spirit.
Kelham Island Walks
2.4 km
Discover Kelham Island, Sheffield’s historic steelmaking heart transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, craft beer, and urban charm.
The Chimney House
2.4 km
Award-winning industrial-chic venue in Kelham Island offering intimate events with exceptional food and warm hospitality in Sheffield.
Kelham Island Museum
2.5 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
2.5 km
Discover the enchanting Steel City Chapel in Sheffield, a unique wedding venue blending historic charm with modern elegance for your special day.
Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood
2.5 km
Explore the serene Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood, a historical landmark in Sheffield offering beautiful nature and poignant history.
The River Don Engine
2.5 km
Explore the River Don Engine in Sheffield, a fascinating museum celebrating the city's industrial heritage and engineering marvels.
Sheffield Town Twinning, Commonwealth Bench
2.5 km
A peaceful landmark in Sheffield celebrating international friendship and the city’s enduring Commonwealth ties.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
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.
Botanical Gardens
0.1 km
A Victorian-era oasis of themed gardens, rare plants and elegant glass pavilions, just a short walk from Sheffield city centre.
Rose Garden
0.2 km
Explore the Victorian elegance and fragrant beauty of Sheffield Botanical Gardens’ Rose Garden, featuring historic roses and the iconic Pan statue.
The Glass Pavilions
0.2 km
Discover the historic Glass Pavilions in Sheffield Botanical Gardens, a Victorian masterpiece showcasing global temperate plants in stunning glasshouses.
Bear pit
0.3 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
0.5 km
A welcoming Baptist church in Sheffield’s Sharrow district, blending modern worship with community spirit since 2015.
The Beer House
0.6 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
0.7 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures from Sheffield’s finest local makers at this vibrant Hunters Bar gift shop.
Endcliffe Park Playground
0.8 km
A beautifully refurbished, inclusive playground set within the historic and scenic Endcliffe Park, perfect for family fun and nature exploration.
Endcliffe Park
1.0 km
Victorian heritage park with woodland walks, historic monuments, and the poignant Mi Amigo memorial.
Turnip & Thyme
1.0 km
Cozy Sheffield bistro serving creative modern British dishes with seasonal flair and welcoming service on Ecclesall Road.
Weston Park Museum
1.0 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
1.3 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
0.2 km
Garden café bliss: fresh brunches, lush views, and dog-friendly vibes in Sheffield's Botanical haven.
Maranello's Sheffield
0.3 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.
Italian Kitchen
0.4 km
Modern Italian dining with fresh ingredients and generous portions in Sheffield’s vibrant Sharrow district.
Nonna's Sheffield
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Nonna's Sheffield, a vibrant culinary gem on Ecclesall Road.
Uncle Sams Diner
0.4 km
Experience hearty American classics and friendly vibes at Uncle Sams Diner, a beloved Sheffield spot for juicy burgers and generous portions.
Akentannos
0.5 km
Discover authentic Sardinian cuisine in Sheffield’s Sharrow district, where tradition meets warm hospitality and inclusive dining.
Mowgli Street Food Sheffield
0.6 km
Experience authentic Indian street food flavors in a vibrant, market-inspired setting on Sheffield’s Ecclesall Road.
Bella Donna Sicilian Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Sicilian flavors and warm hospitality combine in this cozy Sheffield gem, perfect for a genuine Italian dining experience.
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.
Brocco Kitchen
0.6 km
Elegant Nordic-inspired dining in a charming Edwardian villa, offering fresh, seasonal dishes in Sheffield’s peaceful Brocco Bank neighborhood.
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
0.8 km
Authentic Neapolitan pizza and unique Italian desserts in Sheffield’s vibrant Broomhall neighborhood.
Olive
1.1 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
0.2 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
0.3 km
Step into Sheffield's magical chocolate emporium, where handmade treats and cozy hot chocolates await in a wonderland of sweets and whimsy.
Sister
0.4 km
Discover designer elegance at Sister, Sheffield's chic haven for women's fashion on lively Ecclesall Road.
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.
Mookau
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan treasures in the vibrant heart of Sheffield’s Ecclesall Road at Mookau.
Spirals
0.4 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
0.5 km
Quirky British style on Sheffield's Ecclesall Road: gifts, fashion, jewellery, and homewares that spark joy in every discovery.
Trove
0.6 km
Uncover Sheffield's creative treasures at Trove, where local artistry and quirky gifts await on Sharrow Vale Road's charming stretch.
The Stock Exchange
0.7 km
A compact, curated women's boutique in Hunters Bar offering distinctive clothing and accessories in a friendly neighbourhood setting.
The Village Store
0.9 km
Discover The Village Store in Sheffield: Your go-to convenience stop for snacks, drinks, and local treats in a cozy atmosphere.
Sheffield Store
1.1 km
Affordable, stylish clothing with a charitable spirit at the heart of Sheffield University’s Students' Union.
Within Reason
1.4 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
1.4 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.
The Savage Sister
1.5 km
Discover rare vintage designer treasures from the '90s and '00s in Sheffield’s stylish and sustainable boutique, The Savage Sister.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Local
0.4 km
A cosy Ecclesall Road microbar serving local ales, craft beers and neat cocktails in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
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.
The Portland House Bar
0.5 km
Sheffield's cozy micro pub gem: craft beers, live tunes, and quiz nights in a vibrant Ecclesall Road hideaway.
Porter Brook
0.5 km
Traditional Sheffield pub with hearty grub, buzzing events, sunny beer garden, and dog-friendly vibes on lively Ecclesall Road.
The Nursery Tavern
0.5 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
0.5 km
Sheffield's premier cocktail haven with expert mixology, exclusive late license, and chic private spaces on vibrant Ecclesall Road.
Bar Lujo - Sheffield
0.5 km
Vibrant Sheffield cocktail bar with live DJs, terraces, and eclectic drinks on lively Ecclesall Road.
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
0.6 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 Edge Bar
0.8 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
1.3 km
Sheffield's ultimate sports bar: 40+ screens, giant Jumbotron, epic American grill, shuffleboard, pool, and cocktails in luxury style.
Revolution Sheffield
1.3 km
Lively bar and grill in Sheffield’s West One Plaza with four unique bars, rooftop views, and expertly crafted cocktails.
Green Room Bar
1.4 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
1.4 km
A warm, unpretentious cocktail bar in Sheffield city centre serving crafted drinks, lively music and a social, rustic interior.
BrewDog Sheffield
1.5 km
Discover BrewDog Sheffield, a lively craft beer bar with a spacious beer garden, modern industrial style, and an impressive selection of brews in the heart of Sheffield.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Dempseys Bar and Club
1.4 km
Sheffield's enduring gay bar and club: two floors of drinks, dances, karaoke, and late-night energy from noon till dawn in the city centre.
Corporation
1.4 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Fez Sheffield
1.6 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
1.6 km
Dive into Sheffield's raucous nightlife at ONYX, where neon quirks, bass-heavy beats, and cheap thrills fuel epic nights till dawn in the city centre.
Popworld - Sheffield
1.7 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
The Viper Rooms
1.7 km
Sheffield's stylish split-level nightclub: upscale cocktails on the terrace lounge, eclectic beats on the dancefloor—dress sharp for urban nights that pulse till dawn.
Code Sheffield
1.7 km
Sheffield's ultimate nightclub: massive dance floor, six bars, LED lights, and epic nights till 6am—student favorites and global DJs collide in city-centre chaos.
Al Ahsa Night Club
2.0 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
The Leadmill
2.1 km
Sheffield's 40-year heartbeat of live music, club nights, and comedy in a gritty, immersive venue near the station—where crowds roar and nights ignite.
The Night Kitchen
2.1 km
Dive into Sheffield's industrial heartbeat at The Night Kitchen, where former cutlery factory walls pulse with electronic beats until dawn in a raw, inclusive nightlife haven.
Temple Sheffield
2.1 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
Tank
2.2 km
A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
Plot 22
2.6 km
Immerse in Sheffield's underground beats at Plot 22: no phones, pure rave energy, techno to jungle in an intimate 120-cap haven.
Waikiki Beach Bar
15.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
Volt Nightclub
19.9 km
Experience Barnsley's vibrant nightlife at Volt Nightclub, where lively music, dazzling lights, and affordable drinks create unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
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
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
