​As the weather brightens up, we are excited to announce our first outing with the AMASE Strolling Group!

​This a chance to get out in nature and explore our surroundings at a relaxed pace. All fitness levels and abilities welcome.

​Where to meet

​We will gather in front of the East Gate Shop & Cafe.

• ​Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Kmnhd6EwDdhuWmhw6

• ​what3words: /title.sweat.charge

​If you are lost or running late, please message us through Luma, email [email protected] or message in the #amase-events channel on Discord. Please note we may not notice your message/email immediately.

​​What to expect

​There is no strict route we will follow around the Botanics, but we will move in a generally clockwise direction, taking time to observe wildlife (e.g. squirrels) and plants (e.g. rhododendrons).

​We will make a cafe/toilet stop at Inverleith House about halfway through. Those who would like to stop to view the exhibitions at Inverleith House (e.g. https://www.rbge.org.uk/whats-on/earth-matters/65719/) can do so at this point if they don't mind being separated from the group, or come back later by themselves.

​The stroll will be led by AMASE Committee Member Pete, who may introduce the group to a game of "squirrel" as part of the visit!

​​Price

• ​Free entry :)

• ​The glasshouses (which usually cost extra) are currently closed

​​What to bring (suggestions)

• ​A drink and snack (it can be pricey to buy food/drink there)

• ​​A waterproof jacket in case it rains (maybe check the weather forecast beforehand!)

• ​An extra layer of clothing for when it gets cooler later on

• ​Suncream and/or a hat if it's looking sunny

• ​​Any other items that may help you feel comfortable, e.g. ear plugs, sunglasses, stim tools...

​​Accessibility & support

​​When signing up, there is a question where you can let us know about any accessibility and/or support needs that you don't think we've already considered.

​This is an autistic community event, so we expect everyone to be welcoming of different communication styles, stimming and other different ways of being.

​Accessibility

​At a glance:

• ​Accessible toilets* are located in our visitor centre and in the Garden.

• ​Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available to borrow, free of charge.

• ​Seating is provided at regular intervals across the Garden.

• ​Highly trained Assistance animals are welcome - fresh water is available on request.

• ​Pen, paper and magnifying glasses are available at the Visitor Welcome desk.

• ​Hearing loops are installed at key welcome points.

​*There is no information about gender neutral toilets, which suggests that unfortunately there are none.

​Detailed accessibility info available here: https://www.rbge.org.uk/visit/royal-botanic-garden-edinburgh/access/

​Sensory environment

​This will vary a lot depending on the weather! As mentioned above, you might want extra clothing to keep warm, or perhaps some sunglasses.

​As we'll be visiting at the weekend, there is a chance it will be quite busy. The Botanics doesn't usually get very noisy, but some areas may get a little crowded, and there may be noise especially from kids. There may be dogs present, but only support dogs are allowed.

​If you've not been before, you might find it useful to visit the website and check out some photos/videos: https://www.rbge.org.uk/visit/royal-botanic-garden-edinburgh/

​Unsure/nervous about coming along?

​Please feel free to register for this event even if you aren't certain you can make it. Equally, we're happy for AMASE members to turn up even if you haven't registered on Luma.

​If you are in our Discord server, feel free to visit the #amase-events channel to ask who else is coming along, post any questions or express any worries. If you're nervous about something, it probably isn't just you!

​​Please note

​​This event is open to AMASE members only. Support workers or other supporting people (e.g. family members, partners) who are not members of AMASE are also welcome.