Highlights
- Redwood Avenue, an entrance avenue of giant redwoods planted in 1863
- Over 300 species of rhododendron, flowering in spring and early summer
- The Victorian Fernery, set among rugged cliffs
- The viewpoint over the Holy Loch, with Chilean and Bhutanese pavilions on the way
- The Golden Gates of 1878 and a wildlife hide
About Benmore Botanic Garden
Benmore lies seven miles north of Dunoon on the Cowal Peninsula, inside Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Trees were being planted on the estate from the early 19th century, and the famous avenue of giant redwoods dates from 1863. The Younger brewing family bought the estate in 1889, and Harry George Younger offered it to the nation in the 1920s.
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh began developing the site in 1929 as the Younger Botanic Garden, its first garden outside Edinburgh. It was well placed to grow the many Chinese and Himalayan plants then arriving in Scotland from collectors such as George Forrest. Today the garden covers 120 acres of steep, wooded hillside.
What to see
- Redwood Avenue: the entrance avenue of giant redwoods, now around 50 metres tall.
- Rhododendrons: more than 300 species flower through spring and early summer.
- Victorian Fernery: a fern house set among rocky cliffs (dogs not allowed inside).
- Viewpoint: a climb past the Chilean and Bhutanese pavilions leads to views over the Holy Loch.
- Golden Gates, Torii Gates and the Pond.
- Walled Garden and Courtyard Gallery.
- Wildlife hide: look for red squirrels and sparrowhawks.
Planning your visit
Benmore is on the A815. There is free car and coach parking and bicycle racks. Redwood Coffee serves drinks, snacks and home baking. Some paths, including the route to the Golden Gates, are accessible, but much of the garden is on a slope, so check the access information on the RBGE website. Free guided tours can be booked for groups, subject to availability.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to visit Benmore Botanic Garden?
Adult entry is £12 and concessions £10 including a Gift Aid donation, or £10.80 and £9 without. Children aged 15 and under go free, and RBGE Members get in free.
Can I bring my dog to Benmore?
Yes, dogs on a short lead are welcome in the garden, but not inside the Benmore Fernery.
When is Benmore open?
The garden is open daily from 1 March to 31 October, 10am to 5pm.
Is there parking at Benmore?
Yes, car and coach parking is free, and there are bicycle racks.