Botanical Gardens
Located close to the heart of Belfast City, the Botanical Gardens are well known and visited often by tourists, students and the public alike. With features which include the Palm House, Tropical Ravine, a children’s playground, a bowling green, Rose gardens, sculptures etc it is a nice way to get some tranquillity amongst the chaotic hum of the city. The gardens were built in 1828 by the Belfast Botanic and Horticultural Society and boasted mysterious tree species and extraordinary plant collections many of which are still in the park today. Eventually the society had to sell the gardens to the Belfast Corporation (today it is the Belfast City Council) due to the expenses of running the park and it was re-opened in 1895 as the Botanic Gardens.
Amongst the rose gardens and rockeries the gardens are used to hold concerts and festivals amongst some of the events which take place today. Visitors who take time out to visit will notice local students laying on the grass in the September sunlight, or come across some sort of fete or fair during the summer months as there is always something happening during the warmer seasons in the Botanic Gardens.
One of the most well known features of the gardens is The Palm House, a Victorian glasshouse which visitors can book a guided tour of. Completed in 1852, the building was designed by Sir Charles Lanyon who also helped to design some parts of Queen’s University which is nearby. Inside, one will find a treasure of tropical displays, hanging baskets and displays to match the season. As the roof is a large dome, it allows for the large trees to be entwined with flowers and the seats surrounding are covered in flowers of every colour. The Stove Wing is similar to a mini jungle with rare, exotic plants and birds of paradise plus much more.
Whether you stumble upon the Botanical Gardens or you plan to go there, it will not disappoint. There is play facilities for children to keep them occupied whilst the adults can visit the exquisite gardens and flowers. With quick and local bus routes just outside the entrance to the gardens, it is very accessible and makes it easy to get back into the city centre. The Botanical Gardens is definitely a treat to any holiday makers in Belfast and should be at the top of the list of places to visit!