800
plants to care for in new homes, ready for reinstating back in the Palm Houses
The Project
In a world where 40% of plant species are under threat, botanic gardens have never been more needed or their mission more urgent.
Our restoration of our iconic Palm Houses will showcase the world of plants under glass, and seek to address the twin threats of the climate emergency and biodiversity crisis
We have embarked on an ambitious restoration programme.
With all your donations being doubled, even a small donation makes a big difference.
Each pane of glass will be replaced with energy efficient robust glass – reducing our carbon footprint and the costs of running the Palm Houses. It will ensure that the precious plants within are protected, as well as cutting down on closures for the public due to adverse weather.
We will be bringing back exquisite species of plants, some rare and under threat in their native habitats. The Palm Houses will be opened as one space for the first time since 1871.
They will house a temperate rainforest (including fernery) with new pathways to lead visitors through. The new visitor experience will inspire a new generation, as well as welcome and awe those who are returning.
Restoration Update
Although currently hidden by scaffolding and protective wrapping, a major milestone in the restoration of the Palm Houses has been achieved as ''blasting'' comes to an end. The sponge-blasting technique used to remove rust, paint and grime from the ironwork is now complete. This allows our teams to begin the gradual task of removing the scaffolding.
Off-site, ironwork renovation is being conducted by Shepley Engineers, conservation specialists based in Sheffield; you can watch how they restore it in our video below. New bespoke reinforced glass is being set in place, pane by pane. The ornate south staircase is back with fresh paintwork, and the first of the 19 arched windows has been successfully refurbished and returned to site. Reinstatement will get underway later this month.
This restoration is more than architectural revival; it's a commitment to our future. From children to global explorers, our revitalized Palm Houses will be a living classroom, showcasing the beauty and importance of these exquisite plants.
Picture yourself strolling through a temperate rainforest, guided by new pathways that lead you through a journey of discovery. Here, the key themes of conservation and climate solutions will unfold, inviting everyone to be a part of something bigger.
600
metres sq of rusted ironwork to strip the paint from, repair and restore
5750
panes of glass to replace with reinforced, energy efficient glasswork
Conserving the Palm Houses' ironwork
Watch the short film below to learn more about the fascinating process of blasting, repairing and painting, as we renovate these wonderful buildings.
The Palm Houses and our Living Collection
RBGE is home to one of the world's richest collections of living plants with more than 130,000 plants in our care, and 13,500 distinct species in cultivation built up over centuries from across the globe.
These Grade A Listed Heritage buildings are instrumental in documenting the past, nurturing the present and protecting the future. They, along with the research Glasshouses, are home to 30% of our unique plant collection and enable us to protect against a loss of genetic diversity, and reduce the risk of extinction for species threatened in the wild.
Find out more about the history of the Palm Houses
How you can help
- Donate - We have been able to secure matched funding - meaning your donations will be doubled. However much you are able to give will make a big difference
- Share - Tell others about the appeal, share our campaign on social media when you see it
- Raise funds - You could do a bake sale, an active challenge or even a plant sale!
