Logan Botanic Garden: ‘An Exotic Paradise for Plant Lovers’ in Scotland

Our subtitle is a quote taken directly from Logan Botanic Garden, and they are right on the money with their description. We recently had the privilege to visit this exquisite garden and are thrilled to take all of you on a virtual visit. So, join us as we head to Scotland’s south-western tip to ‘explore and discover’ this wee tropical paradise in Ayrshire!

Without a doubt, Logan is one of my favourite gardens I’ve ever visited. You know you are in for a treat as soon as you turn off the main road and make your way down the palm tree-lined drive. For a minute there, I was wondering if we had somehow teleported to a tropical island! We weren’t prepared for such grandeur and took a quick video. You can see some of that below- sorry for the bugs on the window.

Unfortunately, but understandably, dogs other than assistance dogs are not allowed in the Garden. However, Walter didn’t seem thrilled with this news as evidenced by his unusually serious face seen below. We told him he couldn’t go in and he could only pose for a picture by the carpark entry sign. Clearly this didn’t go over well with him.😂

Logan Botanic Garden was established in 1869 and became a regional garden of Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh in 1969. According to the Garden, the reason why they can have such exotic plants- including so many palm trees- is because of the warming effects from the Gulf Stream. This creates an almost subtropical climate and provides the opportunity for Logan to feature plants from Australia, South and Central America and Southern Africa. One of my favourite sections was Tasmanian Creek where you can find plants from Australia and New Zealand.

There is also a lovely picnic area there.

The Logan Conservatory was built in the style of a Victorian Glasshouse but is a relatively recent build. In fact, it is the first glasshouse in the UK to be entirely heated by green energy sources.

One fascinating feature that borders the Walled Garden is the ruin of Balzieland Castle- a 16th-century tower house.

The Logan Discovery Centre is in what used to be the head gardener’s cottage. It is an 18th century Galloway cottage but has been completely renovated and now houses the Centre. It’s a great location to learn more about the history and current conservation work of Logan as well as the other gardens that are part of Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

Here are some more photos from our visit at Logan Botanic Garden:

After walking around, you can refuel at the Potting Shed Bistro which is in the Walled Garden. They have seating inside or you can enjoy a meal outside while you take in the beautiful surroundings.

As you leave Logan Botanic Garden, there is a section where you can buy plants to take home with you as a lasting keepsake of your visit. There is also a lovely shop with a wide selection of souvenirs.

We hope you have enjoyed this wee trip to Logan Botanic Garden. However, we have barely scratched the surface of all there is to see and do. Therefore, we highly recommend that, if you are in the area, you go see the Garden in person. Head to their website for more information on how to best plan your visit.

Until next time- Explore & Discover!

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