
Cruickshank Botanic Garden
A tranquil 11-acre haven established in 1898, featuring over 2,500 plant species, diverse gardens, and a peaceful arboretum.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness the garden awaken

Cruickshank Botanic Garden
Best Time
Witness the garden awaken

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil 11-acre haven established in 1898, featuring over 2,500 plant species, diverse gardens, and a peaceful arboretum.
"A peaceful escape into nature's beauty, a hidden gem in the city that refreshes the soul."

Free Entry Gem 🌿
Enjoy this beautiful botanical garden without an admission fee. A true hidden gem for budget travelers!
Explore Old Aberdeen 🏖️
Combine your garden visit with exploring the historic Old Aberdeen area.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Herbaceous Border
Main Garden Path
A stunning display of diverse plant life, bursting with color and texture, especially vibrant in summer.

The Arboretum
Northern Section
Wander among mature trees, offering shade and a sense of timeless tranquility. A peaceful escape.

Peaceful Benches
Throughout the Garden
Discover quiet spots to sit, relax, and soak in the serene atmosphere. Perfect for contemplation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the City Buzz
Best Time for Blooms
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry Gem 🌿
Enjoy this beautiful botanical garden without an admission fee. A true hidden gem for budget travelers!
Explore Old Aberdeen 🏖️
Combine your garden visit with exploring the historic Old Aberdeen area.
Perfect for a Stroll 🐶
Dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a leisurely walk with your furry friend.
Photography Paradise 📷
Capture stunning shots of diverse flora and tranquil scenes. Ideal for nature lovers.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry Gem 🌿
Enjoy this beautiful botanical garden without an admission fee. A true hidden gem for budget travelers!
Explore Old Aberdeen 🏖️
Combine your garden visit with exploring the historic Old Aberdeen area.
Perfect for a Stroll 🐶
Dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a leisurely walk with your furry friend.
Photography Paradise 📷
Capture stunning shots of diverse flora and tranquil scenes. Ideal for nature lovers.
Seasonal Beauty 🌺
Visit during different seasons to experience the garden's ever-changing floral displays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cruickshank Botanic Garden as a beautiful, peaceful, and well-maintained escape within Aberdeen. Its free entry and diverse plant collections are major draws, offering a relaxing experience for all. Some visitors note that the greenhouses are not publicly accessible, which can be a minor disappointment.
"Such a beautiful place and well worth a visit.
It’s full of beautiful blooms and trees. 🌲
It’s so lovely and relaxing to be amongst all the gorgeous flowers. 🌺
It’s located in old Aberdeen which is also a gorgeous area to explore.
Worth making the visit."
Radiate Repeat
"A peaceful escape into nature's beauty. The vibrant flowers and lush greenery create a perfect spot for relaxation and photography. It's well-maintained, with charming pathways and quiet benches to sit and unwind. The variety of plant species is impressive and educational. Overall, a hidden gem in the city that refreshes the soul."
Akhy Rani das
"Wonderful garden, part of University of Aberdeen established 1495, filled with beautiful botanical examples of native and exotic species used in teaching. Magical place worth a visit. 👍👍👍"
D F
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The garden is located in Old Aberdeen on the King's College campus of the University of Aberdeen. It's easily accessible by public transport within the city. Many visitors find it a peaceful walk from the city center, or you can use local bus routes.
While specific visitor parking directly at the garden might be limited, there is usually parking available on the University of Aberdeen campus. It's advisable to check the university's parking regulations or consider public transport for ease of access.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from Aberdeen city centre to Old Aberdeen, where the garden is located. It offers a chance to see more of the city and its historic areas.
If you're near the University of Aberdeen's King's College campus, the garden is within easy walking distance, making it a convenient destination.
Consider using a navigation app to find the most direct route. Public buses are a reliable option for reaching the Old Aberdeen area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Cruickshank Botanic Garden is free! This makes it an accessible and wonderful attraction for everyone to enjoy.
The garden is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary seasonally. It's always a good idea to check the University of Aberdeen's official website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Fortunately, there is no admission fee to explore the beautiful grounds of the Cruickshank Botanic Garden.
Unfortunately, the greenhouses are typically not open to the public for general visits, though they are used for teaching and research.
While not always advertised, keep an eye on the University of Aberdeen's events calendar for any special garden tours or events that might be happening.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can explore diverse plant collections, including a notable herbaceous border and an arboretum. It's a peaceful place for a stroll, photography, or simply relaxing on a bench.
Absolutely! The garden offers well-maintained pathways and a serene environment, perfect for a relaxing walk.
Yes, there are numerous charming benches scattered throughout the garden, providing ideal spots to pause and enjoy the surroundings.
The garden is a photographer's delight, with vibrant blooms, lush greenery, and tranquil scenes offering endless opportunities for beautiful shots.
Yes, dogs are welcome in the Cruickshank Botanic Garden, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy a walk.
📸 📸 Photography
The herbaceous border in bloom is spectacular for vibrant photos. The arboretum offers beautiful tree-lined paths, and any of the quiet benches provide a serene backdrop.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer, more flattering light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a beautiful atmosphere.
Generally, personal photography is allowed and encouraged. However, it's always wise to be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive setups, especially if you're using professional equipment.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide-angle garden views and closer details of plants. A macro lens can be fantastic for close-ups of flowers.
Drone usage is typically restricted in university grounds and public gardens to ensure safety and the tranquility of the space. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Legacy: History and Purpose
The garden's design incorporates various themed areas, including a significant arboretum and a renowned herbaceous border that bursts into color during the summer months. This diversity allows for a rich learning experience, showcasing both native Scottish flora and exotic species from around the world. The commitment to education is evident in the careful curation and labeling of plants, making it an engaging visit for those interested in horticulture and plant science.
Beyond its academic role, the Cruickshank Botanic Garden offers a much-needed respite from urban life. Its tranquil atmosphere, with quiet benches and winding paths, invites visitors to connect with nature and find a moment of peace. The garden's ongoing maintenance and development ensure it remains a cherished asset for the University of Aberdeen and the city, a testament to the enduring value of green spaces.
Exploring the Garden's Diverse Collections
A major highlight for many visitors is the Herbaceous Border, particularly during the summer months. This vibrant stretch showcases a spectacular array of perennial plants, creating a breathtaking tapestry of colors, textures, and scents. It's a testament to the skill of the garden's horticulturalists and a feast for the eyes. The garden also features specialized collections, such as rock gardens and themed beds, each designed to highlight different plant adaptations and horticultural styles.
Beyond these prominent areas, the garden is dotted with smaller, charming features, including quiet seating areas and picturesque pathways. These elements contribute to the overall serene ambiance, making it easy to forget you're in the middle of a bustling city. The diversity of plant life ensures that there's always something new to discover, regardless of the season.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit