COOKTOWN BOTANIC GARDENS

Welcome to the Cooktown Botanic Gardens, a verdant oasis steeped in history and natural beauty. Established in 1878, these gardens stand as a testament to Queensland’s botanical heritage, nestled within the serene 155 acre Gallop Botanic Reserve, just 1.5km from Cooktown’s heart.

Gallop Botanic Reserve, formerly known as the Cooktown Botanical Gardens and Recreation Reserve, boasts a rich tapestry of plant life, housing five prominent collections. Among these are species traditionally utilised by the local Aboriginal communities, a showcase of rare and threatened plants, and a curated selection of specimens originally collected by renowned botanists Joseph Banks and Daniel Solander during their 1770 expedition.

Designated as a Queensland Heritage site, the gardens retain much of their late 19th-century charm, with features such as garden terraces, granite rock pools, stone steps, and other archaeological remnants. Explore further, and you’ll encounter a palmetum, a lush rainforest garden, and a tranquil water lily pond.

Accessible pathways wind gracefully throughout the park, leading to attractions like The First Peoples Grove, picnic shelters, a new Orchid House, and an Information Hub. Informative signage and labelling help visitors navigate and appreciate the Gardens’ treasures.

Don’t miss Nature’s Powerhouse Café, offering a tantalizing menu in a tropical, alfresco setting—a true hidden gem of Cooktown dining. Also located in the building you’ll find the Vera Scarth-Johnson Gallery that features the botanic works of artist Vera Scarth-Johnson, as well as visitor information centre, a gift shop and local art exhibitions.

Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll amidst lush foliage or a deeper dive into botanical history, the Cooktown Botanic Gardens offer an enriching experience for all. For opening hours and highlights, visit the Cooktown and Cape York Tourism page.

Delve into the gardens’ heritage and cultural significance through its heritage listing, and discover the timeless allure of this historic botanical haven.

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