
Inverewe Garden
A botanical oasis on Scotland's west coast, Inverewe Garden showcases over 2,500 exotic plants thriving thanks to the Gulf Stream.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Garden in full bloom

Inverewe Garden
Best Time
Garden in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A botanical oasis on Scotland's west coast, Inverewe Garden showcases over 2,500 exotic plants thriving thanks to the Gulf Stream.
"Probably the best gardens I’ve seen so far in the UK. It’s part of the Scottish trust."

🐾 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead throughout the gardens. :dog:
🥾 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the extensive grounds and trails. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Alice's Walk
Within the garden
A highlight for many, featuring exceptional planting and a diverse array of species.

Exotic Flora
Throughout the garden
Discover over 2,500 exotic flowers and plants, including unexpected palm trees in Scotland.

Californian Giant Redwood
Within the garden
See a magnificent Californian Giant Redwood up close, a truly impressive sight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Outdoors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead throughout the gardens. :dog:
🥾 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the extensive grounds and trails. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Cafe Refreshments
Two cafes are available for snacks and drinks, though coffee quality can be average. :coffee:
🚗 Free Parking Available
Ample parking is available on-site and was free during recent visits. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead throughout the gardens. :dog:
🥾 Comfortable Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the extensive grounds and trails. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Cafe Refreshments
Two cafes are available for snacks and drinks, though coffee quality can be average. :coffee:
🚗 Free Parking Available
Ample parking is available on-site and was free during recent visits. :car:
🦦 Wildlife Spotting
Ask staff for tips on spotting local wildlife, like sea otters! :ocean:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Inverewe Garden for its stunning collection of exotic plants, including unexpected palm trees, and its beautifully maintained grounds. Highlights like Alice's Walk and the Californian Giant Redwood are frequently mentioned. The dog-friendly policy and ample free parking are also appreciated, though some find the navigation map less helpful and the cafe coffee uninspiring.
"Cheap parking, dog friendly (just had to be kept on already). Quiet (it was November). Coffee shop was open, and coffee was acceptable, but not inspiring.
The map was pretty to look at but didn't really help the navigation.
There was plenty of interesting plants, some still flowering well, to inspire.
No funicular railway or cable car.
The weather was mild and bright which was a bonus.
No childrens play area.
The gardens were really well maintained.
Alice's walk was the highlight, excellent planting."
John Neale
"We visited Inverewe Garden at the end of October and found it pleasantly quiet when we arrived around 3:30 p.m. Admission for two was £30. As the weather was already turning colder, many of the plants had withered, so it’s likely best to visit during the summer months to see the garden in full bloom. The garden itself is relatively compact — it takes about an hour to explore most of the grounds. There is a large car park located in front of the entrance, and parking was free during our visit."
Joy
"Very friendly and knowledgeable staff, told us where to go to see the sea otters - which we did manage to see!
Plenty of car parking, large gift shop and two separate cafes provide lots of facilities. Toilets available at the visitor centre and at the main house.
The garden itself is stunning, so many different species living alongside each other, seeing a Californian Giant Redwood in the flesh was a personal highlight!
Couldn't recommend more, highly worth taking the time to visit!"
Steve Davis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Inverewe Garden is located on the A832 coastal road in the Scottish Highlands. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended for ease of access.
Yes, the garden is well-signposted along the A832, making it straightforward to locate for drivers.
There is a large car park directly in front of the entrance, and parking has been noted as free during recent visits.
While possible, visiting without a car can be challenging due to limited public transport. It's best to check local bus schedules in advance if relying on public transport.
The car park is spacious and can accommodate motorhomes, though it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions during peak season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, with a recent visit for two costing £30. It's advisable to check the official National Trust for Scotland website for the most current pricing.
Booking in advance is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check the official website, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid disappointment.
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's essential to consult the official Inverewe Garden website for the most up-to-date information on daily opening and closing times.
Discounts may be available for National Trust for Scotland members, seniors, or families. Check their website or inquire at the entrance for details.
The garden typically operates with seasonal hours, meaning it may have reduced hours or be closed during certain parts of the year, particularly in winter. Always verify current operating dates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find it takes about an hour to explore the main grounds of the garden. However, you can easily spend longer if you wish to linger or explore the surrounding trails.
While specific guided tours might not be consistently offered, the staff are often knowledgeable and can provide insights. Inquire at the visitor centre upon arrival.
Facilities include a visitor centre, gift shop, two cafes, and toilets located at the visitor centre and the main house.
Yes, a map is provided, though some visitors have found it more decorative than practically helpful for navigation.
There is no dedicated children's play area within the garden itself.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Inverewe Garden has two cafes offering refreshments. While coffee is available, some visitors have noted it's acceptable but not exceptional.
Picnicking is generally permitted in designated areas, but it's always best to check the garden's specific policies upon arrival or on their website.
Cafes typically offer a range of snacks and light meals. It's recommended to check the current menu or inquire directly with the cafe staff for specific dietary options.
The dining facilities are primarily cafes offering lighter fare rather than a full-service restaurant.
The cafes usually offer a selection of hot and cold drinks, as well as snacks and light meals. Specific offerings can change seasonally.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire garden offers stunning photographic opportunities, from the exotic plants to the scenic coastal views. Alice's Walk is particularly noted for its excellent planting.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Trust for Scotland properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check their official policy.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for capturing the beauty of the gardens. The weather can also add dramatic effects.
Professional photoshoots may require special permission or booking. Contact the garden management in advance to inquire about their policies.
Look for viewpoints that capture the contrast between the exotic plants and the rugged Scottish landscape, especially near the coast.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful surroundings, as there are cafes available for refreshments. The walking trails around the garden can also offer a gentle adventure for active families. The sheer variety of plants might even inspire a fun 'scavenger hunt' for different types of leaves or flowers.
🐶 Dog Owners
This policy allows you to fully enjoy the stunning botanical displays and walking trails without leaving your canine companion behind. It's a great opportunity for a scenic walk in a unique environment, making Inverewe a more inclusive destination for many visitors.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Consider visiting during the quieter seasons or weekdays to fully immerse yourself in the serenity. The garden's history and the story of its creation add an interesting layer to the experience, making it more than just a walk through beautiful plants. Enjoy a coffee at the cafe afterwards to reflect on the stunning sights.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Remarkable History of Inverewe Garden
This remarkable transformation is a story of overcoming challenging conditions. Mackenzie meticulously planned and planted, creating sheltered walks and diverse garden areas. The garden's success is a powerful example of how human ingenuity and a deep understanding of nature can create beauty in unexpected places. Today, managed by the National Trust for Scotland, Inverewe continues to inspire visitors with its extraordinary collection and its history of pioneering horticulture.
Exploring the Diverse Plant Collections
Alice's Walk is frequently cited as a particular highlight, praised for its excellent planting and immersive atmosphere. Beyond the main garden, the surrounding estate offers walking trails that lead to the coast, providing opportunities to experience the wilder beauty of the Scottish landscape. The presence of a Californian Giant Redwood is another notable feature, offering a sense of scale and wonder.
Even outside the peak summer months, the garden offers interest. While some plants may have withered by late October, the well-maintained grounds and the resilience of certain species still provide a captivating experience. The garden's ability to surprise and delight with its exotic collection is a consistent theme in visitor feedback.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit