Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
About this business
There is nowhere else in Edinburgh where you can exchange vows beneath towering redwood trees, celebrate among world-renowned living collections and enjoy exclusive access to some of the city’s most spectacular botanical landscapes.
At the heart of the Garden sits the John Muir Grove, an extraordinary outdoor setting where majestic redwoods create a natural cathedral for your ceremony. Afterwards, gather family and friends in the historic Caledonian Hall, a beautiful Victorian venue overlooking the Rock Garden and cascading waterfall, before continuing the celebrations into the evening at the contemporary John Hope Gateway.
As the sun begins to set, step out onto the Gateway’s outdoor deck and take in sweeping views across the Living Collection, providing a stunning backdrop for drinks, photographs and an unforgettable evening of celebration. Larger evening receptions can seamlessly welcome additional guests, allowing your celebration to evolve naturally from ceremony to dinner and dancing.
Every wedding at the Botanics is shaped by the changing seasons. From spring blossom and summer colour to autumn foliage and winter textures, the Garden offers an ever-changing backdrop that ensures no two weddings are ever the same.
From October 2026, couples marrying at the Botanics will also enjoy exclusive access to the newly restored Palm House for wedding photography. Following a landmark restoration, this iconic Victorian glasshouse will provide a truly extraordinary setting for wedding portraits, available exclusively to couples celebrating their wedding at the Garden.
Exceptional food, hospitality and event design are central to every wedding. Our award-winning catering and events partner, Heritage Portfolio, works closely with each couple to create a celebration that is entirely personal. From seasonal menus and carefully curated drinks packages to bespoke styling, floristry and production, their experienced team will bring your vision to life while delivering the highest standards of service throughout your day.
Your connection with the Garden continues long after the celebrations end. Every wedding couple receives a complimentary year’s membership to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, providing unlimited access to all four of our gardens across Scotland during your first year of marriage. Whether returning to see spring bulbs emerge, summer borders bloom or autumn colours unfold, you’ll always have a reason to revisit the place where your journey together began.
As a world-leading plant science and conservation charity, every wedding helps support vital conservation, education and research programmes, ensuring the Garden’s remarkable collections can be enjoyed for generations to come.
What's included in my event costs?
Your venue hire fee helps support the incredible work of the Botanics—so your event gives back! Here’s what’s typically included:
- Exclusive use of your chosen venue or garden space
- Estimated food and drink costs (customisable to your taste)
- A dedicated Event Designer to guide you from planning to party
- Security, stewarding, and cleaning before and after your event
- Access to the Gardens during opening hours for your guests
- Venue setup before guests arrive
Extras by Venue:
- Caledonian Hall: Stock furniture – 6-ft round tables & chairs, poseur tables, evening pathway lighting
- John Hope Gateway: Stock furniture included inside and on the decking.
- John Muir Grove (Weddings only): Ceremony chairs, aisle runner, signing table
- Weddings: Up to one hour photo shoot around the Gardens, suggest using our preferred photographers for the best “hot spots”
What kind of events can I book?
We welcome all kinds of celebrations and gatherings:
- Weddings (ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners, post wedding BBQ)
- Corporate events (team building, meetings & conferences, Christmas parties)
- Private parties (birthdays, dinners, celebrations)
- Funerals and celebrations of life
What spaces are available?
From intimate rooms to grand marquees:
- Caledonian Hall up to 100 seated guests close to the East Gate and overlooking the tranquil Rock Garden, Caledonian Hall is a hidden gem within the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh—perfect for couples seeking a peaceful, nature-filled setting for their special day. Benefits from patio area to enjoy on a sunny day along with mini glass sided marquee.
- John Hope Gateway located at the West Gate of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, overlooking the biodiversity garden, John Hope Gateway is a contemporary venue that offers a sleek, light-filled space surrounded by nature. This space is perfect for for a stylish yet relaxed setting. One of its standout features is the outdoor decking area, ideal for summer BBQ’s, drinks receptions, or mingling under the sun. As the day turns to evening, this space is transformed into an exclusive area just for you and your guests, and a private feel that adds a touch of magic to your celebration.
- Patrick Geddes Room a distinctive and tranquil space designed to reflect the visionary spirit of its namesake. This intimate room accommodates up to 16 guests, making it ideal for small meetings, or private gatherings. With direct access to the decking it provides guests with a refreshing outdoor area that complements the room’s botanical ambiance.
- The Arboretum a bright, contemporary event space located within the John Hope Gateway, near the West Gate entrance. As the Garden’s newest venue, it offers a flexible and vibrant setting ideal for a wide range of occasions from weddings and afternoon teas to corporate meetings and dinner receptions up to 100 guests.
- The Demonstration Kitchen offers a truly immersive culinary experience that blends gastronomy with nature. Set within the serene surroundings of the Garden, this intimate venue is designed for small-group events such as corporate incentives, birthdays, and special occasions, where guests can enjoy a close-up view of top chefs preparing exquisite dishes in real time.
- John Muir Grove ceremonies only. This breath-taking outdoor space is ideal for couples seeking a natural, serene setting for their wedding ceremony. Nestled within a secluded part of the Garden, this enchanting space is defined by a majestic circle of giant redwoods (Sequoiadendron giganteum), planted in the 1920s and now towering over 24 metres high. These ancient trees create a cathedral-like atmosphere, offering a sense of grandeur and tranquillity that’s hard to match.
- Lecture Theatre, Conference Room, Board Room & Annexe located in our Science building the Lecture Theatre is a state-of-the-art, tiered auditorium designed for impactful presentations, conferences, and seminars. With seating for up to 240 delegates perfect for meetings and presentations
- Marquee events on Inverleith Lawn up to 1,000 guests with stunning city views
- Christmas venue hire Caledonian Hall, John Hope Gateway and Demonstration Kitchen – see our private Christmas experiences.
Are venue spaces at the Botanics accessible?
Yes, all spaces are wheelchair accessible and suitable for events.
Can I use my own suppliers?
We work with a trusted list of approved suppliers to protect our beautiful, heritage-listed spaces. These include catering, AV, floristry, and production.
You can bring your own:
- Photographers & videographers
- Non-intrusive suppliers (with prior approval)
Important Notes:
- The Palm Houses require accredited suppliers only
- All external suppliers must meet our health & safety standards
Can I hire outdoor space?
Yes, some spaces include outdoor areas. For marquee events, Inverleith Lawn is a top choice. Just remember an indoor backup space is required in case of poor weather.
Can I have a marquee for outdoor space?
Inverleith Lawn is the perfect space for marquee hire. It offers breath-taking views of Edinburgh Castle and the city skyline. The space is ideal for large-scale events in a natural setting.
Event Types:
- Weddings
- Corporate galas
- Award ceremonies
- Private parties
- Charity fundraisers
Capacity:
- Depending on layout, 360 seated guests or 600 standing
What’s Included?
- Exclusive lawn access
- Setup time for marquee construction
- Event Designer support
- On-site facilities & security
Marquees must be provided by approved suppliers familiar with the site.
What restrictions are there for music, décor and other details?
- Music: Must be indoors (except Inverleith Lawn), and finish by midnight
- Décor: Freestanding only, no fixing to walls or surfaces. LED candles only.
- Parking: No private car park, but RingGo spaces nearby. Public transport is encouraged.
- Fireworks & Confetti: Not allowed (including biodegradable).
- Changing Rooms: None on-site. Please arrive dressed or use nearby accommodation.
How do I make a booking or a viewing?
Want to see the spaces available? We’d love to show you around.
- Show-rounds are by appointment
- We can reserve a date for you for free for 14 days
- Bookings require 50% deposit and signed terms and conditions. Final payment is due eight weeks before your event
For more information contact us today.
Weddings: weddings@rbge.org.uk
General events, corporate functions, funerals and Christmas events: venues@rbge.org.uk or 0131 248 2941.
Can I hire the entire Botanic Garden for an exclusive event?
Yes, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh can be booked for exclusive use. Contact our sales team to discuss your requirements via venues@rbge.org.uk.
How do I book a wedding at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh?
Following a venue visit we will create a bespoke quotation for your special day. When you are ready to confirm we will issue a 50% deposit to secure your booking.
Once your contract has been signed and deposit payment issued we will introduce you to your onsite wedding designer to start the planning journey.
Contact weddings@rbge.org.uk to begin planning your wedding at the Botanics.
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