The Gateway Cafe

The bright, airy Gateway Café is an essential part of any visit to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. The Gateway provides an idyllic spot to enjoy sumptuous seasonal dishes, prepared from scratch on site and making full use of fresh fruit, vegetables, and herbs handpicked from the onsite organic Kitchen Garden. 

Take your pick from warming soups, deli filled sandwiches, daily hot specials - plus, of course, a vibrant salad bar jampacked with produce delivered direct from plot to plate. 

Located at the bottom of the stairs in the John Hope Gateway, the Botanics Coffee Cart is a quick and easy option for grab-and-go drinks, or to grab a scoop (or three!) of ice cream from Isle of Arran Dairy. 

Festive Afternoon Tea

As winter settles across the Garden, gather with family and friends for a magical Festive Afternoon Tea in The Arboretum at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. 

Inspired by the beauty of the season and the harvest from our onsite Kitchen Garden, discover tiers of delicate savouries, handcrafted sweet treats and freshly baked scones, each infused with subtle botanical flavours and festive flair. Accompanied by a curated selection of teas, this seasonal experience offers the perfect opportunity to slow down, reconnect and savour the magic of Christmas. 

Whether you're pausing after festive shopping, treating loved ones to a special day out, or making a visit to the Garden part of your winter celebrations, Festive Afternoon Tea promises a memorable seasonal escape. 

20 November to 27 December | Friday to Sunday | Bookings from 12pm to 2.30pm