Should I Visit The Butchart Gardens?

ANSWER:  Ummm… Unequivocally YES! Most definitely! Visit the Butchart Gardens!

Even if you are not a gardener or think this might be a “snore” of a tour – WAKE UP! There is a reason why over 1 million people visit the gardens each year. It would be like like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower or going to Rome without seeing the Colosseum. A trip to Victoria is simply not complete without a visit to The Butchart Gardens.

You are visiting the City of Gardens – Victoria, British Columbia, how can you NOT visit The one that is World Famous!

Jennie Butchart began her lifelong project to transform a barren Limestone quarry into a World Famous, Award-Winning Garden. Today, more than 100 years later, the breathtaking gardens stretch across 22 hectares and include the Sunken Gardens, Rose Gardens, Italian Gardens and Japanese gardens. Throughout the grounds, you will find lavish Water features and sculptures presented by international organizations.  During its 100th year in 2004, The Butchart Gardens – still family-owned – was designated a National Historic Site of Canada.

What Time of Year is Best at the Butchart Gardens?

You would be surprised to know that almost anytime time of year is an excellent time to go!
With 50 full-time gardeners, the transformation from Season to Season always gives you something new and wonderful to experience. But I have to admit my favourite time is summer and August in particular because the Dahlia’s Blooms are bigger than my own head – I’m not kidding.

But if you are here other times of the year, here is what you can expect.

SPRING Season  is April to Mid June

You’ll experience the burst of colour from hundreds of unique varieties of Bulbs and flowering trees and shrubs. Spring can be a bit rainy but don’t worry there are Clear umbrella’s all over the gardens, offering their guests great viewing despite the rain.

SUMMER is Mid June to Mid September

The gardens are alive with breathtaking floral spender at every turn. The Sunken Gardens is without a doubt is the “main stage”. But, for me, a walk through the romantic rose gardens is a highlight. This year Victoria’s Butchart Gardens was recognized by the World Federation of Rose Society with an award of Excellence.

HINT: The Best time to avoid the crowds at the gardens is before 10:30 am or after 3:30.

FALL Mid September to November

The vibrancy of autumn’s fiery colour resonates throughout the gardens. But the Japanese gardens grabs the spotlight at this time of year. As warm days turn to crisp afternoons time for afternoon tea is good planning. The former residences of the Butchart family have been transformed into a lovely dining room.

TIP: The dining room restaurant has been named one of the Top 100 Best Restaurants in Canada by OpenTable.

WINTER December to March

During the Christmas season, The Gardens are transformed into a wonderland of holiday lights and decoration based on the 12 days of Christmas. Strolling around you will enjoy Traditional Carollers and Festive Brass bands. It’s a bit like stepping back into time especially with a skate on the outdoor rink with the vintage lighting and a rich hot chocolate to top it off with.

So, if you are planning a visit to Victoria, BC anytime of year don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy a slow and relaxed afternoon or evening at the Butchart Gardens.

HINT: Butchart Gardens is a 40-minute drive from the city if you do not have a vehicle best to find a Tour option.  Looking to visit the Gardens at your Own Pace consider a Private Tour.

Inquire about a Private Tour Now.

Have you been to Butchart Gardens?

VISIT THE BUTCHART GARDENS WEBSITE for all current information

What’s your favourite season?