The walking group visit the Botanic Garden

Eleven intrepid souls braved unpredictable weather and buses today to enjoy a wonderful visit to the University of Oxford Botanic Garden. The Garden, an oasis of nature and tranquillity in the bustling centre of Oxford, is the oldest botanic garden in Britain, established in 1621. We were shown around by Volunteer Guide Pete, who was very knowledgeable and informative about the history of the garden and the more than 5,000 species of plants it contains.

We were also shadowed by a duck, who may have been interested to hear the history of the garden, but was probably more hopeful for crumbs from members’ packed lunches, as was the robin who joined us in the conservatory at lunchtime.  Dawn and Doreen took the opportunity to hug the Garden’s oldest tree, a yew planted in 1645.  When the rain became particularly heavy it seemed like a good time to explore the more exotic plants in the Garden’s glasshouses, which included some spectacular water lilies and pitcher plants.