Highlights
- The Dawyck Beech, over 170 years old
- A silver fir nearly 350 years old and towering Douglas firs
- The Azalea Terrace in May and June
- Himalayan blue poppies in early summer
- The Cryptogamic Sanctuary for mosses, lichens and fungi
About Dawyck Botanic Garden
Dawyck lies on the B712 at Stobo, near Peebles, about 28 miles south of Edinburgh. It is one of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh's three regional gardens, and its trees include some of the first plants collected abroad and introduced to Scotland. Trails link the collection to plant hunters such as David Douglas, who gave his name to the Douglas fir.
The garden covers about 65 acres of woodland and burnside walks. Its more continental climate suits plants from places such as Nepal, China and Chile, and makes it quite different in character from RBGE's mild west coast gardens.
What to see
- Historic trees: a silver fir nearly 350 years old, a multi-stemmed Douglas fir over 180 years old, Scots pines and giant redwoods.
- The Dawyck Beech: over 170 years old.
- Azalea Terrace: at its best in May and June.
- Meconopsis: Himalayan blue poppies in early summer.
- Cryptogamic Sanctuary: described by RBGE as the world's first reserve for mosses, liverworts, lichens and fungi.
- Snowdrops: along the Scrape Burn in February.
Planning your visit
There is a large car park with space for coaches and bicycles. Coaches should approach from the Broughton side, as there is no left turn into the garden from the Peebles direction. The Dawyck Café serves breakfast, lunch and home baking. Last entry is 45 minutes before closing. For accessibility details, contact the garden on 01721 760254.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to visit Dawyck?
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 Dawyck Botanic Garden?
No. Only highly trained assistance animals are allowed in the grounds.
When is Dawyck open?
Daily from 1 February to 30 November. It opens 10am to 5pm from March to October (last entry 4.15pm) and 10am to 4pm in February and November. It is closed in December and January.
Can I get to Dawyck by bus?
Yes. The X62 runs from Edinburgh to Peebles, and the 91 bus stops outside the garden on request.