Overview of Glasgow Botanic Garden

Founded in 1871, the Glasgow Botanic Gardens lie on Great Western Road in Glasgow's West End, although they were originally sited at the western end of Sauchiehall Street. Initially funded by the University of Glasgow, in order to supply plant material for botany classes, the gardens have since the late 1890s been funded by the city council. The Kibble Palace, the main glass-house of the gardens was built in 1873 and was originally used as a meeting place and concert venue. It was in the Kibble Palace that Benjamin Disraeli and William Gladstone gave their rectorial addresses to the University. The glasshouses have collections of tree ferns, specimens from temperate area of the world and exhibits on the evolution of plant life. Outside there are themed gardens such as the Herb Garden, the Chronological Border and a Systematic Garden.