St Andrews Botanic Garden
Set in 18
acres of impressively landscaped grounds, St Andrews Botanic Garden has won international recognition, yet remains one
of St Andrews' hidden treasures. Although close to the town centre, its location among housing means that visitors
have to make a small - but very worthwhile effort - to find it.
The garden has several main areas, ranging from the rock garden and scree, with pools and waterfalls, to sheltered
paths through large plantings of trees and shrubs. Herbaceous borders provide summer colour and the large glasshouses
contain cacti and succulents and a large collection of alpines besides other plants from warmer regions such as South
East Asia. Whatever the season, there is always something to see.
The first
botanic garden in St Andrews dates from 1889. It was moved to the present site in 1960. The Garden is owned by the
University, but is leased to Fife Council, who are responsible for its maintenance. The Council are assisted by the
Friends of the Botanic Garden, a voluntary charitable organisation, membership of which is open to all.
