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Meridiela.

J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens

A small botanical garden in Road Town on the site of the old agricultural station.

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WhereTortola
Nearest cityRoad Town
Best seasonDecember to May
Time to allowAn hour
Getting thereIn central Road Town on Tortola; walk
EntrySmall charge

The J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens occupy about a hectare and a half in the middle of Road Town on the site of the territory's old agricultural station, laid out from the 1980s with collections of palms, orchids, ferns, cactus and indigenous Caribbean species, along with a lily pond and a small rainforest house. The 2017 hurricanes destroyed most of it and the gardens have been replanted and rebuilt since. The gardens are named for a Tortolian conservationist who pressed for their creation, and they are run by the National Parks Trust rather than by the government directly.

What you actually see

  • The palm collection - the specimens laid out through the grounds.
  • The indigenous section - native Caribbean plants grouped together.
  • The lily pond - the water feature at the centre of the garden.
  • The rebuilding - the replanting done since the 2017 hurricanes.

When to go

December to May is the season. The gardens close on Sundays and some public holidays. Hurricane season runs June to November.

Honest expectations

The 2017 hurricanes destroyed the mature planting and much of the garden is young. It is small and an hour covers it. Opening hours are limited.

Nearby

Road Town centre is around it, and the Old Government House is nearby.

What to pack for J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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