Highlights
- The Great Glasshouse, designed by Foster and Partners, with plants from six Mediterranean-climate regions
- The Double Walled Garden, with magnolias, tulips, irises and alliums in season
- The restored Regency landscape of lakes, cascades and bridges
- Waun Las National Nature Reserve
- The British Bird of Prey Centre
About the National Botanic Garden of Wales
The National Botanic Garden of Wales opened in 2000 as a Millennium project in Carmarthenshire, midway between Carmarthen and Cross Hands. It occupies the former Middleton Hall estate, which Sir William Paxton bought in 1789 and turned into a water park of lakes, cascades and bridges. That Regency landscape has since been restored.
The garden's centrepiece is the Great Glasshouse, a tilted glass dome designed by Foster and Partners. Around it, about 500 acres of gardens, parkland and nature reserve offer plenty to explore beyond the glasshouses.
What to see
- Great Glasshouse: plants from six Mediterranean-climate regions: California, Australia, the Canary Islands, Chile, South Africa and the Mediterranean Basin, set around a six-metre-deep ravine with terraces, waterfalls and a lake. Many are endangered in the wild.
- Double Walled Garden: a historic walled garden with seasonal planting, from spring bulbs to summer alliums.
- Regency landscape: restored lakes, waterfalls, cascades and bridges, and the Waun Las Nature Reserve.
- British Bird of Prey Centre: focusing on native UK species.
- Gruffalo Trail: hand-carved characters in a wood.
Planning your visit
The garden is about 10 minutes from the end of the M4 and 2 minutes from the A48. Booking online saves 10%, and cyclists get half-price entry. Dogs are welcome on set Doggy Days only. Carers go free with proof of eligibility. Last entry is one hour before closing, and in severe weather the garden may close, with updates posted on its social media.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to visit the National Botanic Garden of Wales?
In 2026 adult tickets are £21 including Gift Aid or £18.85 without. Children aged 2 to 17 pay £11 or £9.65, and under 2s go free. Booking online saves 10%, and arriving by bike gets 50% off.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are welcome on Doggy Days: every Monday and Friday and the first weekend of each month.
What are the opening times?
The garden opens at 10am. It closes at 6pm from 30 March to 25 October and at 4pm from 26 October to 28 March. Last entry is an hour before closing.