About the Gardens
CreaTion of the Gardens
Just as in the 21st century there is concern about the nation’s health, so in 1833 the Sheffield Botanical and Horticultural Society in Sheffield was formed to promote the well-being of the town’s residents. Fundraising enabled 18 acres of land to be purchased in the valley of the River Porter and in 1834 Robert Marnock was appointed to design the Gardens and act as the first curator. The Gardens opened in June 1836. Admission was limited to shareholders and subscribers.
Development of the Gardens
Development of the Gardens continued, but their existence was threatened by frequent financial problems. They were rescued by the Sheffield Town Trust, who acquired the site and in 1898 introduced free admission for all. In 1951, the Town Trust leased the Gardens to the City, which took on responsibility for general repairs and upkeep. The economic problems of the 1980s led to a period of neglect. 1984 saw the creation of the Friends of the Botanical Gardens and, in 1996, the charitable Sheffield Botanical Gardens Trust was set up. After a successful bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Gardens were returned to their former glory and officially re-opened in 2007.
Four groups work together to care for the Gardens:
We’re the Friends of the Botanical Gardens. We host garden lectures and demonstrations, raise money to fund garden projects, and provide a thriving volunteer force who work alongside the Council gardeners.
Sheffield City Council is responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of the grounds. There is a team of gardeners led by a Head Gardener, and a Curator.
Sheffield Town Trust is the owner of the Gardens. The Town Trust supports general charitable activities across the city. It has allocated substantial grants to the Gardens over the years.
The Sheffield Botanical Gardens Trust is a charity that raises and invests funds for the repair, restoration and regeneration of the Gardens.