The Oxford Botanic Garden has been around since 1621, making it nearly 400 years old, and it’s now a rural haven bordering the River Cherwell, right in the middle of an incredibly busy city centre. The atmosphere there really is peaceful, making it perfect for students who want to switch off or just chill out a bit. Magdalen College Tower is visible wherever you are in the Botanic Garden, which lends it a slightly magical atmosphere!
When I visited, I was surprised by how much variety there was in the gardens. It includes fountains and lilyponds, a Walled Garden, views of the River Cherwell, meadow-like areas, rockeries and greenhouses filled with both tropical and dessert plants!
The Oxford Botanic Garden is definitely worth a visit, as it’s peaceful nature and riots of colour make it a nice change from the busy city centre.
The Oxford Botanic Garden is taking part in Out In Oxford, which is an LGBTQ+ trail of the University of Oxford’s collection, which is pretty cool!
Cost:
Adults - £5
Concessions - £3.50 (senior citizens, unemployed, students, Uni of Oxford alumni)
Oxford and Oxford Brookes students and staff – free! (with ID)
Opening times:
From September to October, the Botanic Garden is open Tuesday – Sunday 9:00am until 5:00pm, and Mondays from 12:00pm until 5:00pm (with last admission at 4:15pm).