Nestled in a built up area near Birmingham City Centre you will find a tranquil 15 acres of landscaped gardens in Edgbaston known as the Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

The gardens were designed by a Scottish botanist named JC Loudon and were first opened in 1832. Today they offer visitors different garden types and plants from around the world, glasshouses and garden areas and aviaries.

Once you have paid you admission you will pass into the glasshouses, which are divided into Tropical, Subtropical, Mediterranean and Arid Houses.

A number of plants have information printed next to them, which is both informative, easy to read and fun.

On exiting the glasshouses you will find yourself on the Loudon Terrace overlooking the main lawn and bandstand. To the left of the bandstand and a little further along is the Aviary, we spotted Mynah birds and peach faced lovebirds and several other varieties. 

There are different walks to take which meander through the vegetation, some of which are named after botanists which have in some way contributed to the gardens and others are named after the plants that populate them. There are also various sculptures dotted around the gardens to add to the diversity.

There is a museum at the cottage which contains a huge section of tree, the rings of which have been dated to co-incide with important historical events such as the titanic sinking, the start of the second world war and Queen Victoria’s death to name a few.

Even the younger ‘botanist’ doesn’t have chance to get bored as there is an excellent playground and wonderful children’s discovery garden for younger members.

Tucked away as you near receipt to leave the gardens you will find the Japanese Garden where you can marvel at the incredible bonsai, some of which are on loan to the gardens.

An art gallery provides the final backdrop for the gardens, which houses works from mainly local artists.

All in all the Birmingham Botanical Gardens provides an excellent escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, and gives an excellent insight for all ages into the many different varieties of flora and fauna from around the world. 

KTs LGT visited the Birmingham Botanical Gardens in October 2005. Adult admission £5.90, children over 5 £3.50.