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.
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
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2025 Curator update
Read more: 2025 Curator updateGlasgow Botanic Gardens Curator Dr Hiro Shimao gives an update on the collection from 2025 including sugar palms, trees, memorial trees and orchids. This year (from January 2025), we have received more than 1000 species (including cultivars and hybrids) of seeds and plants from many botanical gardens and individuals.
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Chair’s report
Read more: Chair’s reportAndrew Sinclair, manager of the Gardens, and the Friends were contacted some months ago by Professor Willsdon from School of Culture & Creative Arts at Glasgow University about the possibility of remembering a colleague Dr John Richards who had sadly passed away. John knew the Gardens well and lived close to the Arboretum which was…
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January in the Botanics
Read more: January in the BotanicsSome January sightings from our Tour Guides.
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Storm damage to Nothofagus dombeyi
Read more: Storm damage to Nothofagus dombeyiAfter the recent storm this fine southern hemisphere beech tree Nothofagus dombeyi lost several of its limbs. GCC arbor services attended promptly and it is hoped that the tree will be viable for the future. This evergreen beech is endemic to southern Chile and Patagonia where it is widespread favouring damp soil and thriving along…