Glasgow Botanic Gardens are a true Scottish gem. Found in the city’s West End, they’re home to some gorgeous plants and woodlands, as well as a terrific little tearoom.
See also: The Historic South Glasgow Park With Stunning Waterfalls
Perhaps the main attraction inside the gardens is the impressive Kibble Palace, a gorgeous glasshouse filled with a forest of ferns. Originally a private conservatory, the palace hasn’t always been where it is now—in fact nor have the gardens in general—but it was moved to its current location in 1873 where it was initially used as a concert hall and meeting place, hosting notable speakers including former Prime Ministers Gladstone and Disraeli. It wasn’t until 1891 that the gardens became part of the ‘Parks and Gardens of the City of Glasgow’ family and were opened to the public.
Glasgow Botanic Gardens are the perfect place for an unhurried stroll—with various self-led trails that are clearly signposted—but no trip would be complete without a slice of cake from the Botanic Gardens Tearoom. Nestled in the former curator’s house near Kibble Palace, the café serves up excellent breakfast, lunch and afternoon teas.
Although the gardens were once served by a railway line, the Botanic Gardens Railway Station is now totally abandoned. You can, however, reach it fairly easily from Hillhead subway station.