Botanic Gardens - Belfast

Botanic Gardens is a place that I spent a lot of time in during my first years here, as the first two houses I lived in was just around the corner from the park. The park is not only a popular location for events and concerts, but also has some history to it.

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Botanic Gardens is located South of Belfast and established in 1828 by Belfast Botanic and Horticultural Society. This was a response to public interest in horticulture ( the art to farm plants in garden with the purpose to produce food and medical ingredients, or for comfort and ornamental purposes) and botany ( the science of plants eg. plant life). It contains tropical plants, a beautiful rose garden, alpine garden, bird feeders, sculptures and more. The main Head Gardener was Charles McKimm that came to the park in 1874. He made many improvements in the garden, and in 1903 he was appointed to a new post as General Superintenent of Parks for Belfast.

"It contains tropical plants, a beautiful rose garden, alpine garden, bird feeders, sculptures and more."

It was originally known as Belfast Botanic Garden and from the beginning you could find exotic tree species and various plant collections, which you to this day can still find in the park. It is a park for everyone to enjoy, but if you are a tree enthusiast you can find rare oaks that was planted back in the 1880s. Nowadays it is a popular gathering place for residents, students and tourists, but also an important venue for concerts, festivals and other events.

The Palm House is the main attraction of the park and contains a range of tropical plants, hanging baskets and displays that change depending of the season. It is actually one of the earliest examples of a glasshouse made from curved iron and glass. It was designed by Sir Charles Lanyon. The foundation was laid in 1839 and the two wings were completed one year later in 1840 by Richard Turner, the leading ironmaster. Later they also aded the dome, in 1852.

In the park you can also visit Ulster Museum, which is home to many of Northern Irelands most important artifacts, both past and present. Here you can find a mix of art, history and science. I have visited this museum many times as it is completely free, and a good way to soak in the history of the country. It is however good to know that if you would want you can contribute to the museum at the entrance!

My number one tip for this museum is to take the elevator to the top and work your way down. If you get hungry or crave a coffe or tea they have a cafeteria at the ground floor, and there is also activities and events of different sorts being held both in and just outside the museum. So keep your eyes open!