University Of Oxford Botanical Garden, Oxford (must see)

University of Oxford Botanic Garden is the oldest botanic garden in Britain and one of the oldest scientific gardens in the world. Established in 1621 as a physic garden for the study of medicinal plants, it originally served students of medicine at the University of Oxford who learned to identify herbs used in remedies and treatments. Set beside the River Cherwell on the eastern edge of Oxford, the garden occupies around four and a half acres of land that once formed part of a medieval Jewish cemetery before the Jewish community was expelled from Oxford in 1290. Large amounts of earth and manure were brought in to raise the ground above flood level before planting could begin.

The garden was founded with support from Henry Danvers, 1st Earl of Danby, whose contribution financed the grand entrance now known as the Danby Gate. Designed by Nicholas Stone, this richly decorated 17th-century gateway remains one of the garden’s architectural highlights. Originally intended for scientific research rather than display, the collection expanded steadily over the centuries. Today, more than 8,000 plant species are arranged across three main areas. The Walled Garden, enclosed by the original stone boundaries, contains hardy plants organised in long beds according to botanical classification. One of its oldest features is an English yew tree that has stood here since 1645.

The glasshouses form another major attraction, allowing visitors to explore carefully controlled environments for delicate species. These include the Alpine House, Fernery, Orchid House, Palm House, Succulent House, and Tropical Lily House, each recreating different climates. Beyond the walls lies a third section developed after 1947 on former Christ Church allotments. Here, visitors can wander through seasonal borders, vegetable beds, bog gardens, and water features.

The garden offers a quieter side of Oxford within walking distance of the colleges and Christ Church Meadow. Writers such as Lewis Carroll and J. R. R. Tolkien are closely associated with the garden and its surroundings, adding a literary connection to its scientific and historical appeal.