Royal Botanic Garden

Just one mile from the city centre, this idyllic oasis of greenery covers over 70 acres and features horticultural specimens from around the world. Among these, the Scottish Heath Garden and the Rock Garden are fantastic examples of conservation and exhibition. Tremendously popular with everyone from young families out for a stroll to pensioners taking the air, the Botanics has several attractions including Inverleith House, an 18th century building which is now home to one of the city's leading art galleries; the majestic glasshouses, that allow visitors to explore ten distinct climactic zones; and the John Hope Gateway, a state-of-the-art biodiversity and information centre completed in 2009. The Terrace café and Gateway Restaurant serve hot and cold food daily. Several function rooms and halls are available to hire for private events. The Botanics also hosts various arts events, including selections from the International Science Festival and the Festival Fringe.