Christmas at the Botanics FAQ
General Questions
Can I bring my dog?
Assistance animals are welcome at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Pet dogs and other animals are not allowed.
Please under no circumstances leave your dog in the car while you attend.
Can I bring my drone to the Christmas Trail?
Drones are not permitted.
Can I take photographs at Christmas at the Botanics?
You are welcome to take photographs and to share these on social media with the hashtag #ChristmasAtTheBotanics. You can also follow the developments across our Christmas Trails via 'My Christmas Trails' on Facebook and Instagram.
Please note that commercial photography is not permitted at this event, except by prior written agreement. To enquire please email marketing@rbge.org.uk
Can we see Father Christmas at Christmas at the Botanics?
At this time of year, Father Christmas is extremely busy so is unable to meet children individually, however be sure to look out for him as he will be on the trail this Christmas!
What should I wear to Christmas at the Botanics?
Christmas at the Botanics takes place outdoors and you may need to queue on busy days. Please wear appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear for winter weather. We reserve the right to refuse inappropriately clothed patrons access to the trail if it is felt they are open to a greater risk of injury.
What time does Christmas at the Botanics finish?
All customers must exit the illuminated trail no later than 2 hours after the last trail start time and in all cases by 10:00pm.
Should I arrive in advance of my ticketed time slot at Christmas at the Botanics?
We would advise arriving at the start of the trail 5 minutes before you are due to begin the trail.
What is the last entry time for Christmas at the Botanics?
Last entry will be 15 minutes after the last timeslot of the day.
What are the trail times for Christmas at the Botanics?
Please click HERE to view a grid displaying all the timeslots
What happens if it's bad weather?
Christmas at the Botanics is an outdoor illuminated trail. If the weather presents a hazard and a risk to safety, any decision to cancel the illuminated trail will be taken by 2pm on the day of the illuminated trail and you will be notified shortly thereafter.
You will be notified by email and text message and you will be informed of the re-booking process. It is your responsibility to ensure you have entered correct contain details.
We advise you to check the website and social media for the latest updates before you travel. Make sure to check your junk/spam folders to ensure you have not missed any important communication. We recommend adding ticketek@info.ticketek.co.uk to your email whitelist - click HERE for a guide on how to do so.
If you have not heard from our customer service team regarding a cancellation, the event will go ahead as scheduled. No refunds will be offered simply if the weather is inclement.
What happens if my session is cancelled?
Any decision to cancel the illuminated trail will be taken by 2pm on the day of the illuminated trail and you will be notified shortly thereafter.
You will be notified by email and text message and you will be informed of the re-booking process. It is your responsibility to ensure you have entered correct contain details.
We advise you to check the website and social media for the latest updates before you travel. Make sure to check your junk/spam folders to ensure you have not missed any important communication. We recommend adding ticketek@info.ticketek.co.uk to your email whitelist - click HERE for a guide on how to do so.
If you have not heard from our customer service team regarding a cancellation, the event will go ahead as scheduled. No refunds will be offered simply if the weather is inclement.
Privacy Policy
Ticketing
What are the prices for Christmas at the Botanics?
Please click HERE to view a grid displaying the prices.
What dates are off peak and standard?
Please click HERE to view a grid displaying which timeslots per day are off peak and standard.
Where are my tickets?
Digital tickets will be sent to you in your confirmation email at the time of purchase.
You can also download your tickets in your order history.
To access your order history please sign in to your Ticketek Account HERE.
I am visiting the Botanics during the day, do I need to leave the site before entering Christmas at the Botanics in the evening?
To ensure that only ticket holders for Christmas at the Botanics have entry to the illuminated trail in the evening, daytime visitors must leave the Gardens and re-enter through the main gates.
Do I have to book in advance for Christmas at the Botanics?
We recommend that you book early to avoid disappointment. Each timed entry has a limited capacity and the early evening and weekend slots are likely to sell out.
Can I buy tickets on the day?
We recommend that you book early to avoid disappointment. Each timed entry has a limited capacity and the early evening and weekend slots are likely to sell out.
Can I change the date of my booking?
If you wish to exchange your tickets, please download the Ticketek UK app and login with your email address and password created to place your order. Once logged in, you'll be able to exchange your tickets (subject to availability). You can refer to our FAQ page HERE to see how this works on the app.
Exchanges are unavailable within 24 hours of the date you are due to attend.
Can I have a refund?
All tickets are strictly non-refundable unless refund protection has been purchased and the terms and conditions are met. Please see Refundable.Me's terms and conditions HERE for details on what situations are covered.
Can I show my E-Tickets on my phone?
You can show your E-tickets on your phone, as long as the barcode is clearly visible on entry.
Please turn the brightness on your device up to ensure easy scanning of the barcode.
How can I organise a group visit and is there a group rate for Christmas at the Botanics?
There is a group rate of 10% off groups of 15+ adults. Please contact our customer service HERE. Group discounts are not available to book online and apply to adult tickets only.
How do I download my tickets?
You can download your tickets from your order history. To access your order history please sign in to your Ticketek Account HERE.
I have already placed an order, can I add refund protection?
Refund protection can only be purchased at the time of placing an order.
I have purchased refund protection. How do I apply for a refund?
Please apply for your refund using RefundableMe's application form HERE. Please see Reundable.Me's terms and conditions HERE for details on what situations are covered.
How do I update my contact number or email address?
You can update your contact number in your Ticketek account online under 'Personal Details'. To sign into your Ticketek account please click HERE.
How long does my refund take to clear?
If you have had a refund approved due to a change in event circumstances, please allow 10-14 working days for a refund to clear.
If you have already requested a refund for an event that has cancelled, please bear with us. Your request is in hand and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
Why is there a handling fee for Christmas at the Botanics?
The handling fee charged is for the ticket agents, as they maintain the hardware and software at the venue so your paper ticket will be recognised. It also allows us to develop and maintain our own technology to make sure you have a simple, straightforward experience getting into your event.
Will I be charged a separate handling fee if I need to add more tickets to my order?
Please make sure you’re booking tickets for everyone in your party including children and infant tickets. Separate handling fees will apply for additional bookings.
My card has been declined, what should I do?
We recommend checking with your card issuer if your card is declined to ensure there are sufficient funds in your account and that there are no problems placing an order on our website.
My transaction is still showing as pending, has the order gone through?
When placing an order, it may show in your pending transactions for up to 3 days, this should then clear from your account.
How long this takes to clear does depend on each individual card issuer. If your order has gone through, please allow up to 24 hours for a confirmation email.
Why can’t I proceed to payment without selecting Refund Protection?
When placing your order, if you do not wish to add Refund Protection to your order, please ensure that you tick No, do not protect my tickets.
Accessibility
Can I book a carer ticket?
Where an adult or child requires assistance to attend the illuminated trail because of a health condition or disability and is in receipt of any of the following benefits, they will qualify for a free carers ticket:
- Adult Disability Payment or Disability Living Allowance (mobility or care component);
- Attendance Allowance;
- Personal Independence Payment (daily living or mobility component).
Unfortunately, a Blue Badge cannot be accepted as proof of a health condition or disability. Carers should be 16+.
Can I bring my mobility scooter or can mobility scooters be provided at Christmas at the Botanics?
You can bring your own mobility scooter. There will also be eight motorised scooters and three wheelchairs for visitors that can be collected at either entrance (East Gate or John Hope Gateway Visitor Centre) but these must be booked in advance and please note that the demand is always high.
The easiest way to book a mobility scooter is by clicking here or email visitorwelcome@rbge.org.uk
Can wheelchairs be provided?
Wheelchairs will not be available to hire during the trail. Please make arrangements to bring your own wheelchair prior to your visit. - A limited number of wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available to borrow free of charge on a first come, first served basis. Please book in advance by calling 0131 248 2909 or email visitorwelcome@rbge.org.uk
Is the Christmas at the Botanics trail accessible for wheelchair users?
The trail has a fully accessible route, with a mixture of hard standing and tarmac footpaths and only one steep incline where there is assistance if needed.
Due to the natural landscape the trail includes some gradual and steeper slopes. Paths can be uneven in places.
Wheelchairs are accommodated but discretion is needed as the trail may not be suitable for all. Wherever possible stewards will assist but this cannot be guaranteed.
What provisions do you have for guests with access requirements?
The trail will be created to be as accessible as possible within the context of the natural site of The Botanics. The route is all on hard-standing, flat paths and alternative routes will be provided should they be required for customers with mobility issues. Accessible toilets are located in the West Gate and the East Gate Lodge.
Is there a ‘quieter access’ session for Christmas at the Botanics?
"These sessions are for adults and young people who would love to experience Christmas at the Botanics without the usual high volumes of people. These sessions will begin at twilight before the illuminated trail opens to the public, making the transition into the dark much easier. For Christmas at the Botanics 2025, these sessions will be held at 4pm on Sunday 30th November, Wednesday 3rd December and Wednesday 10th December.
The capacity of these sessions will be limited to ensure that the trail remains less crowded and more relaxed.
It should be noted that on many of our trails the path network is not tarmac, and although there are stewards along the route to assist you, the trail will follow the natural contours of the landscape and paths can be steep at times.
Wheelchairs, mobility scooters and trampers will not be available to hire on site, so please make any necessary arrangements for these prior to your visit. A limited number of wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available to borrow free of charge on a first come, first served basis. Please book in advance by calling 0131 248 2909 or email visitorwelcome@rbge.org.uk. They are accommodated but discretion is required as the trail may not be suitable for all aids. Stewards will assist where possible but this cannot be guaranteed.
Ticket prices for our quieter sessions are consistent with the rest of the illuminated trail, with carers entering for free. When booking, please talk to our staff about any additional support you may need for exiting the illuminated trail through quieter areas or help with parking closer to the start of the trail.
To book the quiet access session for the West gate, please click HERE.
Is the trail wheelchair and mobility scooter friendly?
Yes, but please take care as you will be part of a large walking audience. Please avoid using headlights because the trail will be sufficiently lit. Only use in an emergency if possible. A limited number of wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available to borrow free of charge on a first come, first served basis. Please book in advance by calling 0131 248 2909 or email visitorwelcome@rbge.org.uk
Will there be strobe lighting at Christmas at the Botanics?
There will be lighting sequences created within the lighting design that will have some flashing lights contained within them, however, these will not be strobe lighting. We have worked to guidelines on photosensitive epilepsy and will adhere to the industry standard of synchronising effects and locking the sequences to ensure that lights do not operate at more than 5 flashes per second.
Operations and Facilities
Where does the trail start and what is the route at Christmas at the Botanics?
We are currently working on the trail route, once finalised updated information will display here.
Are there toilets?
Toilets are located at the John Hope Gateway, The Terrace Café and at Logan's Border near to the East Gate.
What shopping facilities are there at Christmas at the Botanics?
The Botanics Shop is situated in the West Gate Entrance and will be open during Christmas at the Botanics until 10pm.
Can I have a catering stand at the Botanics trail?
If you have any questions regarding having a catering stand at one of our trails, please email commercialenquiries@raymondgubbay.co.uk
Will CCTV be in operation?
For your personal safety CCTV will be in operation. If you have any queries regarding this, please contact dan.cctv@culturecreative.co.uk
Can I pay with cash or card at the trail?
We will only accept card payments at all sale points.
Can I purchase food and drink at Christmas at the Botanics?
Yes, absolutely! This FAQ will be updated with more details of the catering offered shortly before the event.
Please note we will only accept card payments at all sales points
Can we exit the trail at Christmas at the Botanics before it ends?
As it is a circular route, there is no exit half way through.
How long is the trail at Christmas at the Botanics?
The route length is currently being worked on - it will take approx. 90. minutes to complete
Is the trail at Christmas at the Botanics dark or covered?
The trail is not covered and all visitors are reminded that this is an outdoor illuminated trail and the weather may be inclement. Please wear appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear for winter.
We reserve the right to refuse inappropriately clothed patrons access to the walk, if it is felt they are open to greater risk of injury.
In some areas the lighting will be low level as this is part of the experience. We do encourage visitors to bring along a torch in case of an emergency - this should not be used unless it is necessary.
Customer Service
I want to contact customer service
Please contact Customer Service HERE
I have sent a message via the contact form, how will I receive my reply?
Once you have submitted your query via the contact form please allow 2 working days for our team to respond to your query via email.
Getting There
Where is Christmas at the Botanics and how do I get there?
There are two entrances at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh:
East Gate Address: Royal Botanic Garden, East Gate, Inverleith Row, EH3 5LP
West Gate Address: Royal Botanic Garden, West Gate, Arboretum Place, EH3 5NZ
On foot: The Garden is just one mile north of Princes Street. The West Gate located on Arboretum Place can be accessed via Stockbridge and the East Gate is located on Inverleith Row.
By train: The nearest station is Waverley Station which is 1.5 miles from the Garden.
By bus: The Garden's East Gate entrance on Inverleith Row is served by bus routes 8, 9, 23 and 27 from the City Centre. The West Gate (John Hope Gateway visitor centre) on Arboretum Place is served by Lothian Buses 29 and 24 via Stockbridge.
By car: If you are arriving by car, entry is via the West Gate (John Hope Gateway) where there is ample on-street parking available.
Is there a dedicated drop-off & pick-up area at Christmas at the Botanics?
There is no dedicated drop off / pick up point
Is there parking?
There are no parking facilities onsite at the Botanics but there is ample parking around the periphery of the Garden. Please use metered parking bays on Arboretum Road, Arboretum Place, Inverleith Place, Inverleith Terrace, East Fettes Avenue, Carrington Road and Fettes Avenue (free after 5:30pm). Resident permit bays should be avoided. There is no parking next to the East Gate.
We will be arriving by coach, do we need to reserve a coach parking space at Christmas at the Botanics?
The closest coach parking to the Garden is on Inverleith Place and is controlled by the City of Edinburgh Council for further information please visit Coach access - drop off and pick up locations – The City of Edinburgh Council
Which Gate should I purchase for at Christmas at the Botanics?
If you are arriving by car, taxi or coach, you should purchase for the West Gate (John Hope Gateway) on Arboretum Place (EH3 5NZ), where there is more street parking available.
If you are arriving by public transport or on foot you should purchase for the East Gate where the entrance is on Inverleith Row (EH3 5LP).
If you have booked the wrong gate, please contact us
Is there disabled parking at Christmas at the Botanics?
We have six blue badge parking spaces for disabled people to the left of the West Gate entrance and a further three spaces opposite to the left of the Inverleith Park Gate. Blue Badge holders can park in metered bays for free if displaying their badge.
There are an additional WAV (wheelchair accessible vehicle) spaces in the circular area outside the Botanics' West Gate.
Membership
As a member do I get a discount on tickets to Christmas at the Botanics?
Members will receive £3.00 off their admission ticket for Christmas at the Botanics when purchased in advance.
To access this please select a members ticket when booking. Please bring your valid membership card/s on the date of your visit for verification at the gate. One adult member ticket is permitted per member.