the Royal Botanic Gardens

of Edinburgh

Summer in the Botanic Gardens

There’s no better place to host an event in Edinburgh in summer than the Royal Botanic Gardens of Edinburgh. Whether you’re organising a festive dinner, an outdoor barbecue for more than 100 people or an intimate meeting or lunch, we have several indoor and outdoor venues to choose from.

The garden is in full bloom, creating a magical backdrop whichever venue you choose. From the spacious contemporary John Hope Gateway lounge and outdoor terrace overlooking the garden to the traditional Caledonian lounge with waterfalls and rock pools in view, you’ll feel like you’re in an oasis of tranquillity and seclusion.

Dinners

From large dinners in the John Hope Gateway Room to smaller dinners in the Caledonian Room, intimate dinners in the David Douglas Room and even al fresco dining on the outdoor terrace, there is plenty to choose from. Each area offers a different atmosphere and view of the estate. We can offer menus ranging from formal three-course dinners, canapés, starters and street food to a seasonal BBQ menu.

Receptions

Drinks on the outdoor terrace or formal canapés in the Caledonian Room – kick off your event with a delicious meal in an inspiring venue. You can host dinner or dancing in another building on the estate so your guests can enjoy a short walk to really appreciate the gardens and breathe in the fresh Scottish air. There really is so much to do ‘under one roof’!

Meetings and conferences

Let the Botanic Gardens offer something completely different for your next meeting or conference this summer. There's a range of rooms of different capacities and atmospheres to suit your needs. And don't forget that your delegates can admire the inspiring gardens during the breaks to keep them motivated.

Retreat days

This summer you can escape from the office to Edinburgh's most inspiring venue. A variety of indoor and outdoor venues allow for a variety of activities. Our staff will talk you through the options; let us create an event your team has never had before!

Barbecue

The spacious decked area has its own outdoor kitchen with a pizza oven and plenty of comfortable seating overlooking the garden - perfect for any summer event. You can hold it as formal or casual as you like, and ask about our botanical drinks menu! Of course, when planning a summer barbecue in Scotland, there's bound to be a 'plan B' - with the adjacent John Hope Gateway building we've got it covered!

Seasonal Garden Produce

Freshly-picked salad leaves, fruit, vegetables and edible flowers from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Edible Gardening Project Market Garden, a stone’s throw from the restaurant, are hand delivered throughout the year. Seasonality and the Scottish weather dictate when and what crops are available. Our chefs adapt their dishes to reflect the abundant supply of organically-grown produce prepared for your plate. Any ingredients we can’t grow ourselves are sourced from local Scottish suppliers who provide fresh, seasonal, quality ingredients year round – all within 100 miles of the Botanics!