Welcome

The Friends of Glasgow Botanic Gardens have a simple wish – that you enjoy the Gardens as much as we do.

You may be our next door neighbours or a visitor to Glasgow or  live on the other side of the world – it matters not – please enjoy your time in the Gardens, whether in-person or online. We hope that this site will inspire you to visit the Gardens and give you all information you need.


Conservation

Glasgow Botanic Gardens is firstly a documented collection of plants for the purposes of conservation, education and research and is home to several national plant collections including dendrobium orchids, tree ferns and begonias.


Education

We aim to enhance the international educational value of botanic gardens world-wide and support educational activities and training programmes aimed at nature lovers of all ages and skill levels.


Public benefit

We believe the Botanic Gardens are a precious gift to be utilised and enjoyed by all. Friends groups play a vital role in safeguarding our greenspaces, ensuring they remain freely accessible for generations to come by shaping the management, funding and protection of these invaluable public assets.

Free Guided Tours

Free tours of the Botanic Gardens have started their 2026 season.  View the Tours page for the current tour schedule.

Upcoming events

Upcoming Events

Certificate in Practical Horticulture

RBGE Certificate in Practical Horticulture at Glasgow Botanic Gardens is a 10-day course that will give you the fundamental practical skills of a horticulturist.

Latest News

  • Glasgow Tree Lovers’ Society

    Glasgow Tree Lovers’ Society

    The Society was founded in 1933 by a group of tree enthusiasts with a vision of this city being improved as a ‘dear green place’ by planting trees and shrubs wherever possible. It was the driving force behind plantings along roadsides, in derelict areas, within parks and gardens and the grounds of churches, schools and…

    Read more: Glasgow Tree Lovers’ Society
  • New additions to Glasgow Botanic Gardens

    New additions to Glasgow Botanic Gardens

    Until July, we have received seeds and plants of about 760 species (including hybrids and cultivars) from botanical gardens, nurseries, and individuals. Many of the seeds came through the Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) seed exchange program from other botanical gardens across Europe. Seed germination is not always successful, but we have obtained seedlings of…

    Read more: New additions to Glasgow Botanic Gardens
  • Chair’s report

    Chair’s report

    All those visiting the Gardens entering by the Main Gate are greeted by the magnificent site of the summer bedding with the backdrop of the Kibble Palace. Such a site is well known for those of us living in the West End as it has been there since the late 19th century. As I show…

    Read more: Chair’s report
  • Remembering Boxer Peter Keenan

    Remembering Boxer Peter Keenan

    The many memorial benches in Glasgow Botanic Gardens show how for many people and families this place holds a deep meaning for them. The benches also provide a welcome place of rest and somewhere to chat with friends. However, outside of direct families relations, the names on the benches seldom give the sitter much information…

    Read more: Remembering Boxer Peter Keenan