Overview

A cool but bright afternoon and time to go for a meander around the Botanic Gardens. Once again, I'm not disappointed as there is always something new to see. It was lovely to see the spring flowers trying to burst through. Discovering raised planters by the Gardners Cottage and wheelchair friendly viewing deck by the wild pond. Oh yes, a new sign depicting the wheelchair friendly route from by the John Hope Gateway to the Cottage.

Transport & Parking

The bus stop by the East Gate is really handy as there's only a short walk to the entrance. If you come by car then the West Gate, John Hope Gateway, is probably better as there are some accessible parking bays but these do get busy.

Access

Access around the gardens is great as there are hard surfaced paths for most parts. There are also some wheelchair accessible paths that are signposted by the rock gardens. The glasshouse tour is fabulous as you work your way through the glasshouses and the different climates. I particularly like the automatic doors that make getting around so much easier as a wheelchair user.

Toilets

Very good toilets with a choice of three different places that I saw. The accessible loos in the John Hope Gateway are my favourite - particularly the larger of the two. Plenty of space to manoeuvre.

Staff

Staff are very helpful and happy to chat about the plants or give handy directions if you're not too sure which way to go.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

The botanics do have mobility scooters available at the John Hope Gateway. There are two or three places to grab a coffee or something to eat. With a full restaurant on the upper floor of the John Hope Gateway. Loved the way there were lots of benches along the walkways where people could take a rest or simply stop, sit and admire the views.

Photos