27th Annual Glasgow Botanic Gardens Orchid Fair
The Kibble Palace is considered by Monty Don to be ‘the best glasshouse experience anywhere in the world‘ – Monty Don’s British Gardens (January 2025)
The 2026 Glasgow Botanic Gardens Orchid Fair will be held within the historic Kibble Palace glasshouse on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th May 2026.
This popular event, now in its 27th year, remains the only dedicated Orchid Fair in Scotland and provides an ideal opportunity for you to come and not only admire displays created by four UK regional orchid societies, but also to purchase a wide range of orchids and rare plants from specialist UK nurseries.
The Scottish Orchid Society has had a long association with Glasgow Botanic Gardens and assists with the running of this annual event.
Entrance to the Orchid Fair is COMPLETELY FREE so do come along and join us for a beautiful experience in the heart of Glasgow’s west end.
More details…
Members of our Society will be on hand to offer advice on caring for your orchids and answer any queries you might have. We will have repotting demonstrations with Q&A sessions on both days, to help you help your orchid to thrive.
We will have four amazing displays of orchids all grown by enthusiasts from the north of the UK! The Scottish Orchid Society will be joined at the event by:
- the North of England Orchid Society
- the North East of England Orchid Society
- Hinckley & District Orchid Society
There will be orchids and other tropical plants on sale from reputable and ethical British trades:
We’ll also have the lovely beekeepers from the Glasgow & District Beekeepers Association selling their delicious local honey and products!
Behind the Scenes Tour at Glasgow Botanic Gardens
On Saturday afternoon there will be a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes, at 1.30pm, to see the collection of orchids and other rare plants in the historic glasshouses not normally open to the public.
The tour will be led by GBG Orchid Propagator Christine Nicholson, and is free of charge. However, places are strictly limited and can be booked on a ‘first come, first served’ basis by visiting the Scottish Orchid Society stand on the Saturday morning.
Make sure you arrive early to book your spot!