Burnley Gardens

Burnley Gardens is a heritage-listed garden in Richmond with a long connection to horticultural education, experimentation and public life. Its story begins on 17 December 1860, when the Horticulture Society of Victoria established experimental gardens to introduce plants to the colonies and advance botanical and horticultural science. The gardens officially opened in January 1863, after being planted with conifers and other ornamental species. By the end of that year, more than 1,400 fruit-tree cultivars had been trialled, although a major flood later destroyed much of the garden and its plantings.

The site was re-established and expanded over time, with vegetable trials added in 1874, a pavilion built in 1884 and annual horticultural shows held by the Society. In 1891, the School of Horticulture Burnley was established here, described by the Friends of Burnley Gardens as the first school of horticulture in Australia. Charles Bogue Luffman became its first principal in 1897 and reshaped the existing design with ponds, shady areas, sunken paths, shrubberies, open spaces and areas planted with wild flowers. The school also has an important place in the history of women in horticulture: Luffman supported women studying at Burnley from 1899, with graduates including Georgina Higgins, Emily Gibson and Edna Walling.

For visitors, the gardens offer a place to explore a significant horticultural landscape, while the Friends of Burnley Gardens provide a way to engage more deeply with its history, plants and people. The volunteer-supported organisation was formed in 1998 and runs as a non-profit, incorporated community group. Membership is open to people interested in supporting the gardens, meeting others with similar interests and taking part in events throughout the year. The organisation also shares garden history, information about significant trees, presentations, tours and resources, including a book documenting the design and the people associated with the gardens.

The event programme suits a range of interests and experience levels. A winter fruit-tree pruning session combines an introductory lecture with practical work in the Burnley Field Station orchard, including espaliered trees, and is described as suitable for beginners or experienced pruners wanting a refresher. Other programming includes horticultural talks and the Friends’ annual general meeting, with both in-person and online options listed for the 2026 event. Burnley Gardens should appeal to solo visitors, gardening enthusiasts, students, career horticulturists and groups looking for a thoughtful outing with a strong local story. It is rated 4.7 out of 5 on Google from 240 reviews.