The Friends of Glasgow Botanic Gardens was established as a charitable organisation in 1994 and formally our aim is “the enhancement of education for the public benefit by supporting and furthering the activities of Glasgow Botanic Gardens as a centre for education, research and public amenity”.

Our fundraising is directed towards the enhancement of the plant collections within the Gardens and the provision of education and information programmes for all ages. Above all, we all enjoy meeting and discussing our favourite subjects – plants, gardens and landscapes!

After a period of dormancy during the pandemic, the Friends are beginning blossom once again. We are planning many exciting activities and we look forward to welcoming new members and making new Friends.

Community activities

We are a volunteer-led organisation that has been delivering educational and social programming within the Botanic Gardens and beyond for 29 years.

We host a series of lectures, talks and workshops for the Friends, where guest speakers provide enjoyable accounts of specialised plant collections, great gardens, horticultural practice and environmental issues. This programme culminates each year with the Kibble Lecture in April which is open to all.

We organise group visits to major gardens in Scotland, both public and private, and in 2023 are beginning work on a new series of public tours of the Gardens at home in Glasgow.

We also publish a magazine called The Drumlin, detailing the work of the Gardens staff and the Friends, sharing knowledge and more. Over the years, the Drumlin has become a cherished chronicle of local history.

Education and training

The Glasgow Botanic Gardens was originally established as a facility for education and research. Today, The Friends work closely with the staff of the Gardens, funding and supporting staff development, trainee placements, undergraduate and postgraduate research, as well as supporting the Certificate in Practical Horticulture which is open to all.

Additionally, the Friends organise and train volunteers to work within the Gardens for learning and enjoyment.

To develop our own horticultural knowledge, the Friends have access to the extensive library within the Gardens. We share this knowledge in the Drumlin magazine, and in educational materials developed for Schools and visitors.

Investments and major projects

In addition to events, activities and education, the Friends make significant material contributions to the Gardens which local and international visitors enjoy on a daily basis.

In recent years, we have procured specimens to add to the special collections within the glasshouses; bulbs and bedding plants for the landscaped borders of the great lawn; and seeds for the wildflower meadow. It is a great pleasure to see thousands of visitors from all over the world admiring these fascinating and inspiring displays that the staff work hard to maintain for all to enjoy, under ever-more challenging circumstances.

The Friends are also glad to have contributed to significant capital investments in the Gardens, including the funding of Maureen Bell outdoor classroom and major restorative works to the outdoor pond near the Kibble Palace.