Garden Openings

Stobshiel House

Humbie EH36 5PD
Mr Maxwell and Lady Sarah Ward

Wednesdays only from 5 March to 24 September, 9am - 3.30pm, admission £6.00, children free. Tea, coffees, lunch and home baking available at Humbie Hub. (2025)

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T:01875 833646 or 07876 350725 E:stobshiel@gmail.com

The garden at Stobshiel House is effectively split into four main parts viz., the walled garden, the shrubbery, the pond and lawns and the woodland areas. Each area is laid out and planted to provide the visitor with all year round interest from swathes of aconites, snowdrops and narcissi in spring to a vast array of perennials, roses, clematis and annuals throughout summer and autumn. The extensive collection of shrubs and mature trees offer a fantastic backdrop during all seasons.

Directions: Travelling from Humbie towards Haddington B6368. Take the second sign on the right opposite Gilchriston, having passed over a very narrow bridge. Go up hill until you see two stone pillars on a corner. If coming from Haddington to Humbie. Take the B6368 and turn uphill to the left at the first sign to Stobshiel. Continue uphill until you see the two stone pillars on your right at a sharp corner. What3words: acclaim.reform.breached

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie 60%

Humbie Dean

Humbie EH36 5PW
Frank Kirwan

Wednesday 19 March, Wednesday 2 April, Wednesday 16 April, Wednesday 14 May, Wednesday 11 June, Wednesday 9 July & Wednesday 27 August, 10:30am - 4pm (2025)

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E:frank.kirwan@gmail.com

A two-acre ornamental and wooded garden on a variety of levels, sandwiched between two burns at 600 feet, planted for year-round interest. The palette of plants includes hostas, hellebores, perennial geraniums, primula, meconopsis, martagon lilies, clematis, spring bulbs, ground cover, herbaceous and shrub planting, erythronium, daffodil and bluebell meadow, mature and recent azalea and rhododendron planting, and vegetable beds. The lower sections of the garden are only accessible by a series of steps.

Directions: Enter Humbie from the A68, pass the school and the village hall on the left then immediately turn right just before the Humbie Hub. Take the second left and Humbie Dean is on the left between two small bridges. Limited parking. Find using what3words: shorthand.frog.limbs

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Mamie Martin Fund 60%

Mill of Forneth

Forneth, Blairgowrie PH10 6SP
Mr and Mrs Graham Wood

Sunday 30 March & Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 4pm (2025)

26

E:gaw@forneth-mill.co.uk

Built on the site of a former watermill on the Lunan Burn, originally laid out in the 1970s by James Aitken, the Scottish landscape designer and naturalist. The sheltered four-acre garden has a range of mature trees, including a Himalayan blue cedar, large rhododendrons, azaleas and a wide range of shrubs. The former mill lade feeds rocky waterfalls and a lily pond. Planting includes established perennials with seasonal colours, many bulbs, primulas and heathers, plus a vegetable garden on the site of an old tennis court and a new wildflower meadow.

Directions: Take the A923 Dunkeld to Blairgowrie road. Six miles east of Dunkeld turn south onto a minor road signposted Snaigow and Clunie. Mill of Forneth is the first gate on the left-hand side. PLEASE NOTE due to wet weather conditions there may be limited safe meadow parking on site (exceptions will be made for people with mobility problems).

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Perthshire Women's Aid 60%

Glendoick

Glencarse, Perthshire PH2 7NS
Cox Family

1 April - 31 May, 10am - 4pm, admission £5.00, children free. (2025)

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T:01738 860260 E:gardencentre@glendoick.com

W:www.glendoick.com

Glendoick’s gardens and garden centre with its award-winning café is the ideal spring day out in April and May. Glendoick boasts a unique collection of plants from three generations of Cox plant-hunting expeditions in China and the Himalaya. Enjoy one of the finest collections of rhododendrons and azaleas, magnolias and other acid-loving plants in the woodland garden and the gardens surrounding the house. Many of the rhododendron and azalea species and hybrids have been introduced from the wild or bred by the Cox family. There are fine waterfall views in the woodland gardens. The award-winning Glendoick Garden Centre has one of Scotland’s best selections of plants including their world-famous rhododendrons and azaleas as well as a gift shop and café.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00196

Directions: Follow the brown signs to Glendoick Garden Centre off the A90 Perth - Dundee road. The gardens are a half-mile behind the Garden Centre. After buying tickets at the Garden Centre, please drive up and park at the gardens (free parking).

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Ardchattan Priory

North Connel PA37 1RQ
Mrs Sarah Troughton

Open 1 April – 31 October (Wednesdays only) 9.30am - 5.30pm. Garden Fete Sunday 8th June 12 – 4pm. Admission £6 each day. Children under 16 free. (2025)

0c85d7

E:admin@ardchattan.co.uk

W:www.ardchattan.co.uk

Overlooking Loch Etive, Ardchattan Priory Garden has a mature rockery and extensive herbaceous and rose borders to the front of the house. On either side of the drive, shrub borders, numerous roses and ornamental trees, together with bulbs, give colour throughout the season. The Priory, founded in 1230, is now a private house. The ruins of the chapel and graveyard are in the care of Historic Environment Scotland and open with the garden.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00019

Directions: Oban 10 miles. From north, turn left off the A828 at Barcaldine onto the B845 for six miles. From east or from Oban on the A85, cross Connel Bridge and turn first right, proceed east on Bonawe Road.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

A Blackbird Sings

20 Kings Park, Longniddry EH32 0QL
Graham and Maxine Pettigrew

Saturday 12 April, Saturday 3 May, Saturday 31 May, Saturday 14 June, Saturday 19 July, Saturday 16 August & Saturday 6 September, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

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T:01875 853003

Situated in the Glassel Park Estate, the planting of this long garden reflects East Lothian habitats including moorland, grassland and woodland, as well as areas of related plant varieties such as rockery, roses, ferns, heucheras and peonies. Together they form a pattern of gardens within a garden accessed by boardwalks and woodland paths. A large water lily pond houses newts and a second pond within a rockery is fed by a waterfall, A cold conservatory contains cacti and insectivorous plants. Vertical structure is provided by a large number of specimen small trees such as Cornus, maples, magnolias, contorted Robinia, Chinese rowan, Davidia and Honey Locust. Animal and bird carvings in wood by Graham reflect local fauna.

Directions: By car: enter Dean Road from A198, right at Kings Avenue, right at Kings Park. House is at the end of the second cul-de-sac. By bus (124, X5): Cunningham Court stop, down Cunningham Court and Old Dean Road to turn right on Kings Avenue and then right at Kings Park.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Leuchie 30% & Scottish Wildlife Trust Ltd 30%

Shepherd House

Inveresk, Musselburgh EH21 7TH
Sir Charles and Lady Fraser

Tuesdays and Thursdays from 15 April - 31 July, 2 - 4pm and Sunday 18 May, 11am - 4pm. (2025)

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T:0131 665 2570 E:ann.shepherdhouse@gmail.com

W:www.shepherdhousegarden.co.uk

A constantly evolving artist’s garden that never stands still, with lots of surprises including a shell house built in 2014, rose parterres, a rill and fountains. At its heart are the plants filling every border, spilling over arches and lining paths, which are the inspiration for Ann’s paintings. The season starts with the snowdrop collection of over 70 cultivars, moves on through hellebores, tulips, irises and roses. One of the garden's features is a mirror steel diamond sculpture to commemorate the Frasers' diamond wedding anniversary and 60 years in this garden.

Directions: The garden is near Musselburgh. From the A1 take the A6094 exit signposted Wallyford and Dalkeith and follow signs to Inveresk.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Barrahormid Trust 60%

Longwood

Humbie EH36 5PN
Linda Flockhart and Sandra Gentle

Wednesday 16 April, Wednesday 14 May & Wednesday 11 June, 10:30am - 4pm (2025)

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An extensive, long-established country garden at 800 feet, undergoing renewal. There are ducks and hens, stream and ponds as well as areas of wild garden and borders including roses, vegetables, lawns and woodlands. Stunning views over the Forth.

Directions: From the B6368 (Humbie to Haddington road) about one mile east of Humbie take the direction south to Blegbie Farm (signposted). Follow the road for circa two miles, passing Humbie Mains Farm as you go. You will find Blegbie Farm at a hard right-hand bend. The drive for Longwood will be straight in front of you, right beside Blegbie. Go straight up the drive and park at the bottom of the cottages. Do not turn right or left. What3words: mermaids.steepest.animals

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 60%

Ardvorlich

Lochearnhead FK19 8QE
Mr and Mrs Sandy Stewart

19 April - 31 May, 9am - dusk, admission £5.00, children free. (2025)

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T:01567 830335

Beautiful hill garden featuring over 170 different species of rhododendrons and many hybrids, grown in a glorious setting of oaks and birches on either side of the Ardvorlich Burn. The paths are quite steep and rough in places and boots are advisable, especially when wet.

Directions: On South Loch Earn Road three miles from Lochearnhead, five miles from St Fillans.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: The Ghurka Welfare Trust 60%

Inchmill Cottage

Glenprosen, near Kirriemuir DD8 4SA
Iain Nelson

Monday 21 April, Thursday 8 May, Thursday 22 May, Thursday 12 June, Thursday 10 July, Thursday 14 August & Thursday 4 September, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

T:01575 540452

This is a long, sloping and terraced garden at over 800 feet in the Braes of Angus, developed to be a garden for all seasons. Half is dominated by bulbs, rhododendrons, azaleas, primulas, meconopsis and clematis. The other half is mainly later summer bulbs, herbaceous plants and roses. There is also a rockery/scree.

Directions: Please DO NOT use SatNav. From Kirriemuir take the B955 (signposted The Glens) to Dykehead (about five miles). From there follow the Prosen sign for about five miles. Inchmill is the white-fronted cottage beside the phone box in the village. There is car parking beside the church (50 yards away) and by the village hall opposite.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: The Archie Foundation 60%

Willowhill

Forgan, Newport-on-Tay DD6 8RA
Eric Wright and Sally Lorimore

Saturday/Sunday/Monday, 26/27/28 April, Saturday 7 June, Monday 9 June, Saturday 14 June & Monday 16 June, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

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T:01382 542890 E:willowhillfife@btinternet.com

W:www.willowhillgarden.weebly.com

An evolving three-acre garden. The house is surrounded by a series of mixed borders designed with different vibrant colour combinations for effect in all seasons. Spectacular mix of roses, herbaceous perennials and annuals planted through the wide borders are a highlight in mid to late summer. A ‘no dig’ 160-foot border in shades of white, blue, purple and pale yellow was created in 2019/2020. The most recent addition to the garden is another ‘no dig’ border in shades of peach, burgundy, yellow, chocolate and acid yellow. Come and see! April and May for late spring bulbs and flowers; June and July for roses and high summer colour; August for late summer colour. The plant stall includes a lovely selection from the garden. Visitors are welcome to bring their own refreshments and picnic in the garden. A season ticket for all these dates, and by arrangement, is £25 plus p&p and admits the ticket holder plus guest. It comes with a limited edition of the Willowhill Garden Guide: 35 pages of beautiful photographs with descriptions of key garden features and plantings. A season ticket with booklet is a perfect gift for garden lovers for a birthday or at Christmas and do treat yourself too! Season tickets are available online at tinyurl.com/yxcj2mzy or by post (cheque for £27.76 payable to Scotland’s Garden Scheme) from Scotland's Gardens Scheme, 23 Castle Street, Edinburgh EH2 3DN.

Directions: 1.5 miles south of Tay Road Bridge. Take the B995 to Newport off the Forgan roundabout. Willowhill is the first house on the left-hand side next to West Friarton Farm Strawberry Shed.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Rio Community Centre 50%

Newliston

Kirkliston EH29 9EB
Mr and Mrs R C Maclachlan

From 1 May to 4 June, 2 - 6pm, (not Mondays and Tuesdays) (2025)

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T:0131 333 3231 E:newliston@gmail.com

A well preserved 18th-century parkland/designed landscape rather than a garden as such. Full of mature rhododendrons and azaleas, fine vistas and allées of trees. The walk around the woods and lake is a carpet of wild garlic and bluebells in the spring. The wood to the east of the house is in the pattern of the Union Jack, best appreciated by standing in the centre where all the radiating paths meet. The house, designed by Robert Adam, is also open.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00298

Directions: Four miles south of the Forth Road Bridge, entrance off the B800.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: CHAS 60%

Ascog Hall Garden and Fernery

Ascog, Isle of Bute PA20 9EU
Josceline and Jane Wheatley

1 May - 31 July, 10am-5pm (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only) (2025)

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T:01700 503461(house) 07824 393 009 (Josceline) E:janejoswheatley@gmail.com

The unique feature of this three-acre garden is its Victorian Fernery with its elaborate glazed roof, springs and ponds providing a haven for many exotic fern species, including Britain's oldest, a 1000-year-old King Fern. Surrounding the Fernery are newly-planted garden rooms featuring Australasian, Asian and South American species set within its original landscaping. While in many ways a young garden set in mature surroundings, with renovation works still underway, the well-labelled, exotic plantings carry on the curiosity of its founders in the tremendous diversity of plants.

Directions: Three miles south of Rothesay on the A844. Close to the picturesque Ascog Bay. There is a bus every half hour Rothesay - Kilchattan.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

The Secret Garden

Isle of Lismore, Oban, Argyll PA34 5UL
Eva Tombs

1 May - 1 September (Wednesday & Saturday), 10am - 5pm (2025)

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T:07786 374931 E:eva.tombs@gmail.com

A unique garden at the centre of a biodynamic farm on the Island of Lismore in the Inner Hebrides. The garden created from a field has a strong geometric layout that reflects the ecclesiastical history of the island. It has a vegetable garden, a tree nursery, a physic garden, an orchard and a polytunnel. The garden is a haven for wildflowers, birds, bees and butterflies. Standing stones, meadows, new woodlands, mountains and the sea encompass the whole. There is also a herd of rare breed Shetland cattle, chickens, ducks and friendly cats.

Directions: Please telephone for directions. Approximately two miles from Port Appin ferry.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 30% & Oban Gaelic Choir 30%

4 Port Ann

Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8SE
Chris and Anne Buckland

Saturday/Sunday/Monday, 3/4/5 May, Monday/Tuesday, 26/27 May & Saturday/Sunday/Monday, 2/3/4 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

34679

E:chrisbuckland3@hotmail.com

This half acre tiered garden is situated in the former forestry village of Port Ann, enjoying a sheltered position between Loch Fyne and a pine forest. It is a fine example of what can be achieved in a relatively small space. Created over the last 15 years by Anne and Chris. Since Chris has become a wheelchair user part of the top level of the garden has been made accessible with a viewing platform to the garden and loch beyond. The garden has a water feature, a pond teeming with newts and dragonflies, a labyrinth designed by artist Margaret Ker, many neuks and crannies creatively filled with plants and small trees, including rhododendrons, azaleas, hawthorn, fig, maple and acers, and ends in a walk through a wilder area of hazels on the burn side where the ground is smothered in bluebells in May.

Directions: Heading north on A83 from Inveraray, before you reach Lochgilphead, Port Ann is signposted on the right. Please park in central square. Only the top garden deck is accessible by wheelchair.

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: MND Scotland 60%

Dowhill

Cleish KY4 0HZ
Mrs Colin Maitland Dougall

Wednesdays only in May and June, 10am - 4pm (2025)

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T:01577 850207 E:pippamd@icloud.com

We're delighted that this garden is opening again after a break of five years. Please come along and see the garden's magnificent trees, woodland walks, ponds, blue poppies and swathes of primulas. There are lovely herbaceous borders near the house with perennials, shrubs and climbers, and below the house, one can walk around the linked ponds which are popular with wildfowl. Behind the house, there are woodland walks through rhododendrons and mature trees, leading up to Benarty Hill to the ruins of Dowhill Castle, with fine views over Loch Leven. Featured in Scotland for Gardeners by Kenneth Cox.

Directions: Three-quarters of a mile from M90, exit 5. Follow B9097 towards Crook of Devon, the entrance is between the trees on left.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: MND Scotland 60%

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn

Wednesdays only 7 - 28 May, 1pm - 4pm. (2025)

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T:01721 740220 E:rpthorburn@icloud.com

Kirkton Manor House has a delightful, three-acre, informal country garden set in the beautiful Manor Valley. It enjoys spectacular open views and calling curlews from its riverside position. Bluebells flank the impressive entrance leading to a new shrub border. Stone steps continue through to terraced slopes filled with bulbs, roses and hellebores providing height, interest and fragrance. Grass paths meander along the burn where snowdrops, blue and white camassia, meconopsis, and ligularia thrive in this sunny meadow environment. Later, in June, sisyrinchiums, irises, orchids and many flowering shrubs and roses are abundant. The natural woodland includes many interesting trees.

Directions: Turn off the A72 west of Neidpath Castle, signposted to Kirkton Manor. After crossing the River Tweed, enter a garden gate which is a mile downhill, opposite a Beware Horses sign.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Haystoun

Peebles EH45 9JG
Mrs Mary Coltman

every Wednesday in May, 1.30 - 5pm. (2025)

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T:01721 720645

This seventeenth-century house (not open) has a charming walled garden with an ancient yew tree, herbaceous beds and vegetable garden. There is a wonderful burnside walk created since 1980, with azaleas and rhododendrons leading to a small ornamental loch (cleared in 1990) with stunning views up Glensax Valley.

Directions: Cross the River Tweed in Peebles to the south bank and follow Scotland's Gardens Scheme sign for approximately one mile.

Admission: £7.00, children free

Charities: St.Columba’s Hospice Care 60%

16 Mulla

Voe, Shetland ZE2 9XQ
Linda Richardson

Saturday/Sunday, 10/11 May, 10:30am - 4:30pm (2025)

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T:07765 037516 E:linda@lindarichardson.co.uk

A garden on the Clubb of Mulla, a hillside overlooking Olnafirth with views of the sea and Lower Voe. Started in October 2016, the steep overgrown plot looked like a continuation of the moor at the back of the house. This garden shows what can be achieved in a very windy and exposed situation, battling against the extremes of the Shetland weather. Gardening with wildlife in mind, trees were planted in the spring of 2017, now providing shelter for birds. There are herbaceous borders, rockery, vegetable bed, 3.6 x 2.4 metre greenhouse, mini wildflower meadow strips and a natural water feature which is a long drainage ditch planted up with willows and water-loving plants. Always a work in progress, more trees have been planted to increase wildlife habitat. The owner is an artist-printmaker with an open studio that folk are welcome to look around too.

Directions: Eighteen miles north of Lerwick on the A970 is Voe. Pass the North Isles junction and Tagon Stores on your right. Turn right into Mulla and number 16 is up the hill on your left. Bus no. 21 (Hillswick) and 23 (Toft) stop on the main road at the bottom of Mulla.

Admission: by donation

Charities: RSPB: for projects in Shetland 60%

Cally Biodiversity Gardens

Cally Avenue, Gatehouse of Fleet DG7 2DJ
Kevin Hughes

Sunday 11 May & Sunday 28 September, 10am - 5pm (2025)

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T:01557 815228 E:info@callygardens.co.uk

W:www.callygardens.co.uk

A one hectare walled garden containing an outstanding collection of rare and common plants from around the world assembled to create naturalistic habitat for our native fauna. Some plants can be found in no other Scottish Garden whilst many are first introductions to gardens in the UK. This is an example of gardening harmoniously with nature where declining birds such as Garden warbler can be seen nesting amongst Himalayan poppies & American Prairie plants whilst lucky people might glimpse harvest mice in our unique Grassland Ecology Garden. We use no artificial fertiliser or pesticide and this is also true of the plants we grow for our plant sale area which has a wide range of less common plants.

Directions: From Dumfries take the Gatehouse of Fleet turning off the A75, follow the B727 and turn left through the Cally Palace Hotel gateway from where the gardens are well signposted. A regular bus service will stop at the end of Cally Drive if requested.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: WWF-UK 60%

Cloan

by Auchterarder PH3 1PP
Neil Mitchison

Sunday 11 May, 10am - 5pm (2025)

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T:07958 155831 E:niall@fastmail.co.uk

Two acres of wild garden, with a wide variety of rhododendrons and azaleas, and an impressive collection of trees, including metasequoia, cryptomeria, Acer cappadocicum, Sequoia sempervirens, Quercus robur ‘Filicifolia’, liriodendron, several Japanese maples, magnificent beech and Scots pine trees, and extensive yew topiary; also an acre of walled garden with embothriums, Acer griseum, several sorbus varieties, parrotia and a large herbaceous border. Fine views of Strathearn from the front of the house.

Directions: From the A823, just south of the A9, follow the small road heading north east, signposted Duchally. Continue for approximately 2½ miles, turn right at the sign Coulshill. Continue for just under ½ mile. Follow the signs for car parking.

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Tiphereth Limited: Camphill Scotland 60%

Tyninghame House and The Walled Garden

Tyninghame House, Dunbar EH42 1XW
Mrs C Gwyn, Tyninghame Gardens Ltd

Sunday 11 May, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

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The Walled Garden, Tyninghame Dunbar EH42 1XW (Mrs C Gwyn): The formal walled garden combines the lawn, sculpture and yew hedges, an Apple Walk, extensive herbaceous planting including roses and peonies with an informal arboretum. Splendid 17th century sandstone Scottish baronial house, remodelled in 1829 by William Burn.

Tyninghame House Dunbar EH42 1XW (Tyninghame Gardens Ltd): The gardens include herbaceous border, formal rose garden, Lady Haddington’s Secret Garden with old fashioned roses and an extensive wilderness spring garden with rhododendrons, azalea, flowering trees and bulbs. Grounds include a one-mile beech avenue to the sea. The Romanesque ruin of St Baldred’s Church commands views across the Tyne Estuary and Lammermuir Hills. Tyninghame has been awarded ‘Outstanding’ for every category in the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes of Scotland.

Champion Trees: Two British and seven Scottish

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00380

Directions: Gates on the A198 at Tyninghame Village. Bus 120.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Leuchie 60%

18 Duchess Park with Westburn

Helensburgh G84 9PY
Stewart & Sue Campbell (18 Duchess Park) Sheila Baker, Cameron & Anne Foy (Westburn)

Sunday 11 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c

18 Duchess Park The garden is small, about 40 years old, and is still being developed. The garden backs on to Duchess Wood, which is our local nature reserve. The rear garden is sloping with steps on one side and a gravel path on the other side to get to the upper garden. It is a woodland garden with two large oak trees, over 50 species and hybrid rhododendrons, and many other interesting woodland trees and plants. Sycamore in the wood behind the garden have been felled in the last year, giving more light at the back, and they have been replaced by trial planting of lower-growing shrubs and trees, both native and hybrid. Mid-May should be a good time to enjoy many of the rhododendrons in full bloom. Almost all the plants are clearly named!

Short guided wildflower walks in Duchess Wood will be offered during the afternoon by the Friends of Duchess Wood. The bluebells should be in bloom. If the weather is poor, "stout" shoes are recommended.

Westburn A woodland garden of just over two acres. The Glennan Burn runs through a woodland of oak and beech trees with bluebells in the springtime. Some of the paths are steep, but there are bridges over the burn and handrails in places. There is also an air raid shelter, and the remains of a kiln where James Ballantyne Hannay manufactured artificial diamonds in the 1800s. A lawn is surrounded by rhododendrons and azaleas, and there is a vegetable garden. Areas of the garden are currently being pruned and replanted.

Directions: From Sinclair Street, travel west along Queen Street until it becomes Duchess Park, a cul de sac. Number 18 is at the far end on the right. Proceed along West Montrose Street from Sinclair Street and take the fourth turn on the right. The entrance of Westburn is 100 yards up Campbell Street on the right-hand side.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Friends of Duchess Wood 30%, St Michael & All Angels Church 15% & Scottish SPCA 15%

Dalswinton House

Dalswinton DG2 0XZ
Mr and Mrs Peter Landale

Sunday 11 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

246d7

T:01387 740220 E:sarahlandale@gmail.com

Late 18th-century house sits on top of a hill surrounded by herbaceous beds and well-established shrubs, including rhododendrons and azaleas, overlooking the loch. Attractive walks through woods and around the loch. It was here that the first steamboat in Britain made its maiden voyage in 1788 and there is a life-size model beside the water to commemorate this. Over the past years, there has been much clearing and development work around the loch, which has opened up the views considerably.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00131

Directions: Take the A76 north from Dumfries to Thornhill. After seven miles, turn right to Dalswinton. Drive through Dalswinton village, past the red church on the right and follow estate wall on the right. Entrance is by either the single lodge or double lodge entrance set in the wall.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Kirkmahoe Parish Church of Scotland 60%

Belgrave Crescent Gardens

Edinburgh EH4 3AJ
The Residents of Belgrave Crescent

Sunday 11 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

28469

City centre private garden of seven acres beside the historic Dean Bridge. Shrubs, trees, herbaceous and mixed borders provide a haven of peace close to the city, with wild areas and magnificent views of the Dean Bridge and over the Water of Leith.

Directions: The garden is a five-minute walk from the West End. Enter from the East Gate in Belgrave Crescent. Buses 19, 22, 36, 37, 41, 43, 47 and 113 (Dean Bridge stop).

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Fresh Start 60%

Dalfruin

Kirktonhill Road, Kirriemuir DD8 4HU
Mr and Mrs James A Welsh

Sunday 11 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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A well-stocked, connoisseur’s garden of about a third of an acre situated at the end of a short cul-de-sac. There are many less common plants like varieties of trilliums, meconopsis (blue poppies), tree peonies (descendants of ones collected by George Sherriff and grown at Ascreavie), dactylorhiza and codonopsis. There is a scree garden and collection of ferns. The vigorous climbing rose, Paul’s Himalayan Musk, grows over a pergola. Interconnected ponds encourage wildlife. This 25th year of opening will be our final year.

Directions: From the centre of Kirriemuir turn left up Roods. Kirktonhill Road is on the left near the top of the hill. Park on Roods or at St Mary’s Episcopal Church. Disabled parking only in Kirktonhill Road. Bus 20 (from Dundee) getting off at either stop on the Roods.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Kirriemuir Day Care Ltd 60%

Oakmore

Blairhoyle, Port of Menteith, Stirling FK8 3LF
Rachel Nunn

Sunday 11 May & Sunday 13 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c6

T:07872 068080

In 2014 this garden was a 3½ acre field with a small wood and lots of rushes. Under the hands of a gardening fanatic and her willing husband, you will see a maturing garden with raised herbaceous borders, young orchards, a developing shrubbery, a rose garden, a bog garden and a variety of species trees. This is a garden for real plant enthusiasts and to enjoy it to the full, good footwear is recommended, particularly if it has been raining.

Directions: Blairhoyle is on the Thornhill to Port of Monteith road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Strathcarron Hospice 30% & Macmillan Cancer Support 30%

Highwood

off Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm PA13 4TF
Dr Jill Morgan

Sunday 11 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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A beautiful woodland walk around 50 acres of native bluebells and primroses in a delightful setting bordering the Green Water river with tumbling waterfalls. Great outdoor space for children to run and explore and splash in the burn (under supervision). A haven of tranquillity only three miles from the centre of Kilmacolm. This opening is raising funds for Buildher (buildher.org) a social enterprise owned by Orkidstudio.

Directions: Take the B786 Lochwinnoch road out of Kilmacolm and continue for approximately two miles. From Lochwinnoch take the B786 Kilmacolm road for approximately six miles. Turn up the road signposted for Killochries. Then follow the yellow SGS signs.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Orkidstudio 60%

Cruachan Lodge

North Connel, Oban PA37 1RE
Mrs Karen Brown

Saturday/Sunday, 17/18 May & Saturday/Sunday, 20/21 September, 10am - 4pm (2025)

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E:healthylifebykaren1@gmail.com

A lovely garden full of exciting all year round colour and interest on the shores of Loch Etive. Many unusual plants and shrubs attracting a diversity of insects and birds. My poly tunnel keeps us supplied with organic fruit and vegetables. Red squirrels are regular visitors.

Directions: From the A85 head north over the Connel Bridge turning first right heading for Bonawe on the B845. Cruachan Lodge is 2.5 miles on the left-hand side of the road. Parking is limited so please car share where possible.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & Macmillan Cancer Support 30%

Kilchoan Gardens

Kilmelford PA34 4XD
Kilchoan Estate/ Luke Senior - Head Gardener

Saturday/Sunday, 17/18 May & Saturday/Sunday, 12/13 July, 10am - 5pm (2025)

2679

T:07425 054 743 or 01852 200 500 E:luke@kilchoanestate.co.uk

An eclectic private garden, open on specific dates and year round by appointment.

Since 2016, when Kilchoan Estate was taken into new ownership, the grounds have been developed and expanded; areas that had fallen into ruin and garden spaces reclaimed by nature have been uncovered; surviving plantings and mature trees have been enhanced; the footprint of further expansive garden and policies laid out.

A cosmopolitan collection of plants and artwork are displayed throughout the grounds, featuring a Himalayan garden, walled garden, arboretum with International Conifer Conservation Program collection, formal planting within native woodlands. Planting has been designed with conservation, diversity and beauty in mind, providing year-round interest. There is plenty to see and many places to sit, rest and reflect.

The chapel will be open. Teas available on SGS specific dates.

Directions: 4.5 miles along the road from the A816 turn off south of Kilmelford signed Degnish. Turn left after 1.5 miles at the bridge and Melfort Holiday Village. Follow this for 3 miles and look out for signage.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: The Kilchoan Melfort Trust 30% & Netherlorn (Church of Scotland): Kilmelford Church New Annexe 30%

Overdale

Kirk Wynd, Blairgowrie PH10 6HN
Peter Mackenzie and Samantha Peck

Saturday 17 May, 11am - 4pm (2025)

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T:07817822190 E:peckies4@gmail.com

A unique town garden and arboretum with magnificent views over Rattray, Blairgowrie & the Strathmore valley. Spread over 1.3 acres of southeast-facing slope, this garden has a wonderful collection of rhododendrons, acers, shrubs and collection of established trees. A series of paths winding down the steep slope takes you past the herbaceous borders, past a pond and through the tree collection. Species include Magnolia acuminata, Cornus kousa, Acer rubrum, Eucalyptus globulus, Metasequoia glyptostroboides, Sambucus nigra f. porphyrophylla, Callicarpa bodinieri and Cercidiphyllum japonicum.

Directions: Parking on Kirk Wynd is not possible due to the steep narrow road. Free street parking is available in Blairgowrie for two hours and car parks are available. Buses 57, 58 & 58A stop at the High Street or Wellmeadow bus station. From the High Street take Upper Allan Street uphill turning right into Kirk Wynd. Overdale is on the right. Disabled visitors should arrange drop off and pick up at gates.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: RNLI 60%

Regent, Royal and Carlton Terrace Gardens

17a Royal Terrace Mews, Carlton Terrace Lane Entrance, Edinburgh EH7 5BZ
RRCT Gardens Association

Saturday 17 May, 12pm - 4pm (2025)

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The largest of Edinburgh's New Town gardens still in private ownership, it remains largely unchanged since its formation in 1830. The design consists of an upland lawn of seven acres planted with specimen trees. The flanking woodlands of five acres are planted with spring bulbs giving a carpet of colour. Sitting on the lower slope of Calton Hill, the garden has beautiful views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside.

Directions: Trams: To Picardy Place then walk along Blenheim Place and Royal Terrace turning right onto Carlton Terrace Lane, where the green garden gate is straight ahead. Buses: to Elm Row or London Road and directions above.

Admission: £7.50, children free

Charities: Flourish 60%

Balhary Walled Garden

Balhary, Alyth, Blairgowrie PH11 8LT
Teri and Paul Hodge-Neale

Saturday 17 May, Saturday 12 July & Saturday 23 August, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

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W:www.facebook.com/balharywalledgarden/

TWO GARDENS FOR THE PRICE OF ONE!

This two-acre, organic, working walled garden is being lovingly restored by Paul, who is bringing it back to full production with the development and experimentation of the ‘no dig’ method to grow many heritage and new varieties of vegetables. He works single-handed with help once a week from a volunteer and visitors should be aware that they are visiting a space which is continually in progress, where they will have the opportunity to see the season unfold and discuss with Paul the benefits and learning processes of gardening the way he does. Aside from the vegetables, the herbaceous borders are currently being redeveloped to give added colour and interest. Paul and Teri will also open their own private therapy garden, which is a beautiful and contemplative space with serene water features, statuary, stonework and unusual plants.

Directions: Situated between Alyth and Meigle on the B954 opposite the sign to Jordanstone.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Perennial 60%

Milton of Finavon House

Forfar DD8 3PY

Saturday 17 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

0c857

E:enquiries@miltonoffinavonhouse.co.uk

W:miltonoffinavonhouse.co.uk

Milton of Finavon House is a Grade C listed property in 1.8 acres of gardens. In parts, the house dates from circa 1500. The gardens are currently being restored and replanted. There is a small meadow orchard with fruit trees and mown walkways, a formal semi-walled garden with more restoration and new planting, with further woodland walks and a kitchen garden with new and old restoration planting. We hope that you will enjoy seeing the garden evolve over the coming years.

Directions: 2 minutes off the A90, north of Forfar and south of Brechin. Take the sharp turn off the A90 and then again into Milton Lane and then about 1 mile into the village. Park up and then on foot follow the signs. Parking is free in the village and is a two minute walk to the gardens. Blue Badge holders may park in the courtyard, you will be directed on arrival, so please follow the road and turn right at the T junction. A public WC is available in the courtyard. Water bowls for dogs will be available.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Logan Botanic Garden

Port Logan, by Stranraer DG9 9ND
A Regional Garden of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Open Sunday 18 May, 10am - 5pm. Admission details can be found on the garden's website. (2025)

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T:01776 860231 E:logan@rbge.org.uk

W:www.rbge.org.uk/logan

Logan Botanic Garden lies at the south-western tip of Scotland, unrivalled as ‘Scotland’s Most Exotic Garden’. Warmed by the Gulf Stream, a remarkable collection of southern hemisphere plants flourish, making this a plantsman’s paradise. Logan enjoys an almost subtropical climate where the garden's avenues and borders feature a spectacular and colourful array of half-hardy perennials. The garden is warmed by the Gulf Stream which enables plants from Australia, New Zealand, South and Central America and Southern Africa to thrive. Voted ‘Best Garden in the UK’ 2021, Logan promises a delightful day out for all.
National Plant Collection: Gunnera, Leptospermum, Griselinia, Clianthus and Sutherlandia
Champion Trees: Polylepis and Eucalyptus

Directions: Ten miles south of Stranraer on the A716 then 2½ miles from Ardwell Village.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Board Of Trustees Of The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh 60%

Woodfall Gardens

Glasserton DG8 8LY
Ross and Liz Muir

Sunday 18 May, Sunday 15 June & Sunday 20 July, 10:30am - 4:30pm (2025)

67

E:woodfallgardens@btinternet.com

W:www.woodfall-gardens.co.uk

This lovely 3 acre triple walled garden has been thoughtfully restored to provide year round interest and a wonderful environment for birds, bees, butterflies and even red squirrels. The gulf stream keeps the climate mild and enables many tender southern hemisphere plants to thrive. Some of the seasonal highlights are the exotic bulb beds, the candelabra primula walkway, hundreds of blue poppies and a huge variety of hydrangeas, rhododendrons and acers. There are many mature trees and shrubs, including many less common species, and extensive beds of fruit and vegetables that are interspersed with flowers. This well stocked garden, that still has traces of 18th century grandeur, is definitely worth a visit. We are very grateful to the people who visit annually - there is no better recommendation.

Directions: Two miles south-west of Whithorn at junction off A746 and A747 (directly behind Glasserton Church).

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Whithorn Primary School 60%

South Flisk

Blebo Craigs, Cupar KY15 5UQ
Mr and Mrs George Young

Sunday 18 May, 11am - 5pm (2025)

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T:01334 850859 E:southfliskgarden@gmail.com

W:www.standrewspottery.co.uk

The spectacular views to Perthshire and Angus and large flooded quarry full of fish (and occasional otter) planted with impressive marginals, make this garden very special. Flights of old stone steps, cliffs, boulders, exotic ferns and mature trees form a backdrop for carpets of primroses, bluebells, spring bulbs and woodland plants like trilliums, camassia, meconopsis and colourful primulas, with rhododendrons in flower from March to July. In front of the house is a charming, mature walled garden with traditional cottage-garden planting. Next to the house is the St Andrews Pottery where George will demonstrate his pottery skills for those who need a break from the garden! A new water garden with a stream running through was created in 2023.

Directions: Six miles west of St Andrews off B939 between Strathkinness and Pitscottie. There is a small stone bus shelter opposite the road into the village and sign Blebo Craigs. See map on our website - standrewspottery.co.uk. Bus to Blebo Craigs.

Admission: £8.00, children free

Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 60%

Craig Cottage

Blebo Craigs KY15 5UQ
David and Elizabeth Wallace

Sunday 18 May, 11am - 5pm (2025)

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Situated a few hundred yards from South Flisk is the charming Craig Cottage - a total contrast to South Flisk but the two gardens complement each other perfectly. Most of the garden has been planted since the owners moved here in 2014, although the small area of shrubs close to the cottage is original. Half of the lawn is now 'meadow' with a recent planting of fritillaries. The rest of the garden has borders with interesting plants, a rose screen, rhododendrons, azaleas, specimen and fruit trees and a productive vegetable plot. A recently extended rockery leads to an area of paths between thymes, camomile and other ground cover plants broken up by hedges and trees to provide windbreaks. The garden has fine examples of dry stone walling, most of which is the restoration of the original. A half acre field adjacent to the existing gardens has recently been added. The intention is to have meadow grasses with a small number of trees.

Directions: A short walk from South Flisk - see separate listing.

Admission: £8.00, children free

Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 60%

Shrubhill

Dunblane FK15 9PA
Tiff and Michaela Wright

Sunday 18 May, 11am - 5pm (2025)

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T:07821 693997 E:wrightrascals@gmail.com

Two acres of mixed, informal planting of some unusual rhododendrons, azaleas, specimen trees and other shrubs. Beautiful all-round views particularly over the Carse of Stirling and towards Ben Ledi and Ben Lomond. Herbaceous borders, meconopsis, late spring bulbs, water feature with a wide variety of primulas. Small walled garden predominantly for fruit and a greenhouse with a well-established vine.

As well as homemade teas being on offer, there will be a plant sale.

Directions: Two miles from Keir roundabout on the B824 on the left, just after the David Stirling Memorial, follow the signs and parking advice. One mile from the A820 and on the right.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Millimetres 2 Mountains Foundation CIO 60%

Torwood House

St Mary's Road, Birnam PH8 0BJ
Jan Silburn

Sunday 18 May, 12pm - 5pm (2025)

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An eight-acre woodland garden developed over the last 40 years in a setting of great natural beauty. You will find a range of interesting shrubs such as enkianthus, cercidiphyllum, crinodendron, eucryphia, magnolias, cornus, amelanchier and abutilon, well-stocked herbaceous borders, beautiful rhododendrons and azaleas and some fine trees. This is an enchanting, quirky garden full of vibrant colours especially in the spring.

Directions: On the hill above the Birnam Hotel, go up St Mary’s Road and take first left turning over left cattle-grid. Bus stops at Birnam Hotel. Approx 200 metres.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 60%

Inchmarlo Retirement Village Garden

Inchmarlo, Banchory AB31 4AL
Skene Enterprises (Aberdeen) Ltd

Sunday 18 May, 1:30pm - 4:30pm (2025)

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T:01330 826242 E:info@inchmarlo-retirement.co.uk

W:www.inchmarlo-retirement.co.uk

Beautiful five-acre woodland garden filled with azaleas and rhododendrons beneath ancient Scots pines, Douglas firs and silver firs (some over 140 feet tall). Also beeches, rare and unusual trees including pindrow firs, Pere David’s maple, Erman’s birch and a mountain snowdrop tree. The Oriental Garden features a Karesansui, a dry slate stream designed by Peter Roger, RHS Chelsea gold medal winner. The keyhole-shaped garden houses a purple Prunus cerasifera hedge and a herbaceous border, and has been designed by Billy Carruthers of Binny Plants, an eight-times gold medal winner at Gardening Scotland and a regular at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Directions: From Aberdeen via North Deeside Road on the A93, one mile west of Banchory turn right at the main gate to the Inchmarlo Estate.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & The Forget-Me-Not Club 30%

Ross Priory

Gartocharn G83 8NL
University of Strathclyde

Sunday 18 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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Mansion house with glorious views over Loch Lomond with adjoining garden. Wonderful rhododendrons and azaleas are the principal plants in the garden, with a varied selection of trees and shrubs throughout. Spectacular spring bulbs, border plantings of herbaceous perennials, shrubs and trees. Extensive walled garden with glasshouses, pergola and ornamental plantings. Children’s play area near the House.

Directions: Ross Priory is one and a half miles off the A811 at Gartocharn. Bus from Balloch to Gartocharn.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Friends Of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs 30% & Loch Lomond Rescue Boat 30%

Arbigland House

Kirkbean, Dumfries DG2 8BQ
Alistair Alcock and Wayne Whittaker

Sunday 18 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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T:01387 880764 E:alcockalistair@gmail.com

W:www.arbiglandhouseandgardens.co.uk

Arbigland House is an Adam-style 18th-century mansion surrounded by 24 acres of woodland gardens running down to a beach on the Solway Firth. The gardens date from the 18th century but the more formal areas were developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and are currently undergoing a programme of restoration and development by the current owners Wayne Whittaker and Alistair Alcock. There are 200 year-old trees lining the Broad Walk which runs down to the Solway and a huge variety of rhododendrons and azaleas. Within the woodland are a range of features including a stream-fed lake and a Japanese garden, with a more formal sundial garden and sunken rose garden, all in the process of renewal. Amongst these are a diverse collection of mature trees and shrubs.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00015

Directions: Take the A710 to Kirkbean. In the village turn off towards Carsethorn and, after 200 yards, turn right and follow signs to John Paul Jones Cottage. After a mile or so, turn left at the T junction through white gates and down the drive through ornamental gates to Arbigland House.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Absolute Classics 30% & The Arts Society, Dumfries and Galloway 30%

Moray Place and Bank Gardens

Edinburgh EH3 6BX
The Residents of the Moray Feu

Sunday 18 May, 2pm - 4:30pm (2025)

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Bank Gardens Edinburgh EH3 6BX (The Residents of Bank Gardens): Join us to celebrate the gardens of the Moray Feu in their spring and summer colours. Nearly six acres of secluded wild gardens with lawns, trees and shrubs with banks of bulbs down to the Water of Leith and stunning views towards Dean Bridge.

Moray Place Edinburgh EH3 6BX (The Residents of Moray Place): Private garden of three-and-a-half acres in the Georgian New Town is framed by the polygon of Moray Place, and is laid out with shrubs, trees and flower beds offering an atmosphere of tranquillity in the city centre.

Directions: Bank Gardens enter by the gate at the top of Doune Terrace. Moray Place enter by the north gate in Moray Place.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Euan Macdonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research 60%

Brechin Castle

Brechin DD9 6SG
The Earl and Countess of Dalhousie

Sunday 18 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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T:01356 624566 E:mandyhendry@dalhousieestates.co.uk

W:www.dalhousieestates.co.uk

The uniquely-curving walls are just one of many delightful surprises in store as you wander around Brechin Castle's renowned walled garden. Find charm and splendour in the wide, gravelled walks, secluded smaller paths and hidden corners, whilst you take in the stunning blend of ancient and modern plantings. May sees the rhododendrons and azaleas hit the peak of their flowering to wonderful effect throughout the month, with complementary underplanting and a framework of beautiful trees to further heighten your experience. This is a lovely garden to visit at any time of year, but it is really something to behold in the spring.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00070

Directions: A90 southernmost exit to Brechin, one mile past Brechin Castle Centre, castle gates are on the right.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: The Attic SCIO 30% & The Dalhousie Centre Day Care For The Elderly 30%

Temple Village Gardens

Temple EH23 4SQ
Temple Village Gardeners

Sunday 18 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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T:01875 830253 E:delapsandy@gmail.com

Temple Village is situated on the east bank of the River South Esk, to the south west of Gorebridge and is one of Midlothian's most attractive and historic conservation villages. Between the 12th and 14th centuries Temple was the headquarters of the Knights Templar. More recently the village has been home to Sir William Gillies, the famous Scottish painter. A number of village gardens will be open, from the charming riverside garden of The Mill House, to the delightful front and rear gardens of some of the village houses on the Main Street. Planted in a variety of different styles, they display contrasting designs and plant combinations, reflecting the villagers' many distinctive horticultural interests.

Directions: On the B6372, three miles off the A7 from Gorebridge.

Admission: £7.00, children free

Charities: Temple Village Halls Association 60%

St Blane's House

High Street, Dunblane FK15 0ER
Maud Crawford

Wednesday 21 May, 1pm - 4pm (2025)

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E:maud.crawford@btinternet.com

Willie Campbell will be holding a plant sale of his rhododendrons, together with other interesting plants at St Blanes. Many of the rhododendrons collected by Willie from the Far East can be seen growing in the two acre garden situated in the heart of Dublane.

Directions: St Blanes House is almost directly opposite Dunblane Library. There is blue badge parking at the house, otherwise please park in the street.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Strathcarron Hospice 60%

GlenKindie Castle

Glenkindie, Alford AB33 8ST
Christopher and Camille Bently

Friday 23 May, 10am - 2pm (2025)

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GlenKindie Castle is a 16th-century castle remodelled in the 1900s. The walled gardens are laid out in the Victorian Arts & Crafts style with herbaceous borders, a magnificent rhododendron shrubbery, specimen trees and rose beds. There is a fine collection of 19th-century yew topiary depicting teddy bears, chess pieces and characters from Alice in Wonderland. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll around the pond to view the 17th-century dovecot.

Directions: On the A97 Alford/Strathdon road, 12 miles west of Alford. Entrance to GlenKindie Castle is through the main gates, free parking available near the gardens. What3words location: ///vision.trainer.shredder

Admission: £10.00, children free

Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 60%

Tinnisburn Plants

Upper Millsteads, Canonbie DG14 0RY
Helen Knowles

Saturday/Sunday, 24/25 May, 10am - 4pm. Meconopsis will be on display. (2025)

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T:07544 373815 E:helen@tinnisburn.co.uk

W:tinnisburn.co.uk

Developed over the last 36 years, this one-acre, plantsman's garden is home to an eclectic mix of truly hardy perennials, trees and shrubs. Planted for year-round colour and interest and to provide habitats for wildlife, there is something new to see each month. There is a woodland garden, rockery, bog garden, herbaceous borders and much more. Meconopsis grow well here and more are being planted out every year. In addition to the garden, there is a small orchard, wildlife ponds and mown paths through the wildflower meadows and, if you're lucky, you may spot red squirrels.
National Plant Collection: Scilla (Chionodoxa)

Directions: Take the B6357 north from Canonbie. At Harelaw turn left onto the B6318 and after 1 mile turn right onto our track. It is 1.5 miles long and is untarmacked but suitable for all vehicles. Just drive slowly and carefully.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Fauna & Flora International 30% & Macmillan Cancer Support 30%

Angus Plant Sale

Pitmuies Gardens, Guthrie, by Forfar DD8 2SN
The Organisers of SGS Angus, Dundee & Kincardineshire South

Saturday 24 May, 10am - 1pm (2025)

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E:sgsangusdundee@gmail.com

By kind permission of Ruaraidh and Jeanette Ogilvie, our popular Annual Plant Sale will once again be held at Pitmuies Gardens (see separate entry for description of gardens). As always, there will be a good selection of plants sourced from private gardens and some local nurseries. Please bring boxes and trays if you can. Donations of plants will be welcome, either in advance (use above email address to arrange delivery) or on the day. If you are potting up plants, please use sterile potting compost; we cannot accept plants in garden soil.

Directions: From Forfar take the A932 east for seven miles and gardens are signposted on the right. From Brechin take the A933 south to Friockheim and turn right onto the A932. The gardens are signposted on the left after 1½ miles.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Inveryne Woodland Garden

Kilfinan, Tighnabruaich PA21 2ER
Mrs Jane Ferguson

Saturday(1pm - 5pm)/Sunday(10am - 1pm), 24/25 May (2025)

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In ten acres of a 100-year-old amenity wood at Inveryne Farm, on a sloping site, somewhat sheltered from Loch Fyne, the garden was begun in 1994. Scrub birches were gradually cleared, bridges installed and amongst rocky outcrops were planted rhododendrons, azaleas, dogwoods, Japanese maples, sorbuses, eucryphias, hydrangeas and more. Gunnera, primulas and rodgersias cling to the banks of the burn and ferns provide the backdrop for our growing shrubs. Storms have varied its character and created features, and it is still a work in progress. Spring and autumn colour and an interest in varied vistas and textures of bark and leaf inspire us.

Directions: Approximately six miles north of Tighnabruaich towards Kilfinan on the B8000. After turning right at the crossroads at Millhouse, follow the road past the turning to Ardmarnock, over the little bridge at the bottom of the hill. The next track on the left is unpaved and leads to Inveryne.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Cowal Elderly Befrienders SCIO 60%

Tigh-na-Beithe

Birnam Glen, Birnam, Dunkeld PH8 0BW
The Robbs

Sunday 25 May, 11am - 5pm (2025)

079

E:ericarobb555@gmail.com

An informal, shady woodland garden of 1.5 acres with a fine collection of mature shrubs and trees including copper beeches, an enormous flowering prunus and a beautiful Scots pine. Rhododendrons and azaleas are a beautiful sight in spring. The garden is a haven for wildlife with red squirrels and a wide variety of birds. Other features include a rockery, a perimeter pathway, a bluebell walk and seating areas. The ground is hilly, uneven and damp underfoot and sensible footwear is essential.

Directions: There is limited parking at the house. Please park at Birnam Village or Birnam and Dunkeld train station and walk to the garden up Birnam Glen footpath which is a five minute walk.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: The Salvation Army 30% & Guide Dogs 30%

Kilbryde Castle

Dunblane FK15 9NF
Sir James and Lady Campbell

Sunday 25 May, 11am - 5pm (2025)

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T:01786 824897 E:carolaandjames@googlemail.com

W:www.kilbrydecastle.com

Kilbryde Castle gardens cover some 12 acres and are situated above the Ardoch Burn and below the castle. The gardens are split into three parts: informal, woodland and wild. Natural planting (azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias and magnolias) is found in the woodland garden. There are glorious snowdrops, spring bulbs, and autumn colour provided by clematis and acers.

Directions: Three miles from Dunblane and Doune, off the A820 between Dunblane and Doune. On Scotland’s Gardens Scheme open days the garden is signposted from the A820.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Leighton Library Trust 60%

Westerhall

Bentpath, Langholm DG13 0NQ
Mrs Peter Buckley

Sunday 25 May, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

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E:mary.buckley@hotmail.co.uk

An extensive collection of azaleas, rhododendrons, rare shrubs and mature trees set in a landscape of follies, sculpture and stunning vistas. The Walled Garden contains a glasshouse with some exotic plants collected from around the world.

Directions: From Langholm take the B709 towards Eskdalemuir. After approximately five miles, in the village of Bentpath, turn right by white house. Go down through the village, over a bridge and turn right by the church. Continue on this road for approximately one mile. Parking at farm which will be signed.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Westerkirk Parish Trust 60%

Craigellie House Gardens

Alyth PH11 8LA
Liz and Charles Bushby

Sunday 25 May, 1pm - 4pm (2025)

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W:https://www.craigellie.co.uk

Situated on a south-facing , two-acre plot, Craigellie House dates back to around 1918. When Liz and Charles

moved there in 2018 the garden, once open with a grass tennis court but later formalised, had been badly neglected and was overshadowed by enormous conifers. Working with a professional gardener, they have crafted a garden that beautifully complements this historic home. Though still a work in progress, visitors can enjoy vibrant successional planting in the newly-formed herbaceous beds, a small woodland area and a recently-created kitchen garden.

Directions: Take the Bamff Road from Alyth, passing the church and entrance to the Den of Alyth. Continue for about ½ mile and turn right through the white gate opposite the Tullyfergus & St Fink junction. Stagecoach bus 57 or 57A to Alyth & 25 minute walk.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Kirklands

Saline KY12 9TS
Peter and Gill Hart

Sunday 25 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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T:07787 115477 E:peter@kirklandsgarden.co.uk

W:www.kirklandsgarden.co.uk

Kirklands, built in 1832, has been the Hart family home for 48 years. Over the years we have created a garden. The walled garden was reinstated from a paddock to include terracing and raised beds. In 2023 we introduced two bee hives. The woodland garden comes into life in February with snowdrops followed, over the months, by bluebells, hellebores, trilliums, fritillaries, rhododendrons, meconopsis, candelabra primulas and irises. The rockery displays dwarf rhododendrons and azaleas. The herbaceous borders reach their peak in the summer, continuing into early autumn with a display of bright yellow rudbeckia, verbena and echinacea. Down by the Saline Burn there are 30 species of primula in all colours of the rainbow. Over the red or blue bridge there are 20 acres of naturally regenerating woodland with a pathway by the stream. To keep the grandchildren occupied, Peter built a tree house, climbing frame and rope swing, though we hope they will take an interest in gardening too!

Directions: Junction 4, M90, then B914. Parking in the centre of the village, then a short walk to the garden. Limited disabled parking at Kirklands.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Saline & District Heritage Society 60%

Earlshall Castle

Leuchars KY16 0DP
Paul and Josine Veenhuijzen

Sunday 25 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

6d7

T:01334 839205

Extensive, historically important and Quixotic topiary gardens designed by Sir Robert Lorimer in the 1890s to complement the Castle. The grounds also include a rose garden, croquet lawn, vegetable garden, orchard, park and wooded area.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00168

Directions: On Earlshall Road, three-quarters of a mile east of Leuchars Village (off A919).

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Leuchars St Athernase and Tayport Church of Scotland 60%

Lindores House

by Newburgh KY14 6JD
Robert and Elizabeth Turcan & John and Eugenia Turcan

Sunday 25 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c467

T:01337 840369

Situated between Lindores House and Lindores Loch, and with stunning views over the loch, the garden has been developed by the current owners over the last 45 years. It now includes extensive lochside and woodland walks with banks of snowdrops, leucojum, hostas, gunnera manicata, primula, astilbes, crocuses, fritillaria, spring and autumn cyclamen, hellebores and a notably impressive collection of trilliums. As well as the much older established trees - and in particular the splendid 17th century yew (believed to be the largest in Fife which you can actually walk inside) there are more recent plantings of interesting specimen trees and shrubs. The herbaceous beds are mainly laid out formally around the old tennis court overlooking the loch. There is a one-acre walled garden, mainly used for growing fruit and vegetables, and a new garden in front of the recently converted stable building is under construction.

Directions: Off A913 two miles east of Newburgh. Bus from Cupar.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: RC Diocese Of Dunkeld: St Columba's RC Church, Cupar 60%

Gardens House

Houston Renfrewshire PA6 7AU
Mark and Melanie Crichton Maitland

Sunday 25 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c79

This new garden covers 10 acres including a Victorian arboretum. Work began in 2013 with the conversion of a spruce plantation, once the Houston House kitchen garden, into a structured landscape now showing impressive displays. A former banana house has been repurposed as a fernery. Beech hedging forms areas containing a collection of rhododendrons - 240 plants, 67 varieties - alongside magnolias, sorbus, acers, and bamboos on either side of an avenue of Dawn Redwoods. The old garden gates lead to a secret garden, home to a magnificent katsura, ancient azaleas and enkianthus, ten newly planted species of fir and a partially restored lily pond. The tree canopy has been selectively opened up and planted with large leaved rhododendron. South of the house, the landscape opens up into an informal park where a pond, created in 2018, adds a peaceful water element.

Directions: Satnav with postcode PA6 7AU takes you to the house. Signed off the B789 to Langbank 300 yards north of the end of Houston.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support 60%

Old Allangrange

Munlochy IV8 8NZ
J J Gladwin

Sunday 25 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

e

T:01463 811304 E:office@blackislegardendesign.com

We have an ornamental garden surrounding the house (new information discovered dates it from the 17th rather than 18th Century), and a three acre productive garden with two Keder greenhouses, designed using agroforestry and permaculture principles and gardened bio-dynamically using no-dig technique. The ornamental garden has different areas with distinctive characters. There is a parterre in front of the house with informal planting, a lower garden, an ornamental propagation garden, a mound and orchard. Hedges, (pleached lime, yew, beech, box, holly and mixed species field hedges) clipped in various styles connect the different areas of the garden. We have started to remove perimeter wire fences replacing them with log hedges and brash bunds. With a keen interest in gardening for biodiversity from the soil upwards, no chemicals have been used since our arrival in 1995. The development and improvement of the garden is ongoing.
Champion Trees: Yew and sweet chestnut.

Directions: From Inverness head four miles north on the A9, and follow the directions for Black Isle Brewery. Park up at the Brewery and walk down to the garden. Directions will be given in the shop.

Admission: £7.50, children free

Charities: Flourish 60%

Swallows Rest

Lindores KY14 6JD
Stuart & Elaine Ingram

Sunday 25 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

47

T:07703 435055 E:elaine.ingram@icloud.com

The current owners moved in at the beginning of 2011 to a garden of grass and weeds. Since then, beds have been hand-dug, a slope filled with dwarf conifers and heathers, a pond and small stream made, and step-over fruit trees planted. The garden also hosts many perennials, shrubs, trees and acid-loving plants. Over 50 varieties of narcissus prolong spring interest, along with many hellebores and rhododendrons.

Directions: Two miles east of Newburgh on the A913 past Den of Lindores, on the left, house with a white door with a stained glass panel of a swallow scene. The garden is opening on 25 May in conjunction with Lindores House - see above listing. As there is limited parking at Swallows Rest, visitors are advised to park at, and walk from, Lindores House.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Corsock House

Corsock, Castle Douglas DG7 3DJ
The Ingall family

Sunday 25 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c67

T:01644 440250 E:jingall@hotmail.com

Corsock House garden, renowned for its substantial collection of rhododendrons, includes an amazing variety of designed landscape, from a strictly formal walled garden, through richly planted woodlands full of different vistas, artfully designed water features and surprises to extensive lawns showing off the Bryce baronial mansion. This is an Arcadian garden with pools and temples, described by Ken Cox as ‘perhaps my favourite of Scotland’s many woodland gardens’.

Directions: Off the A75, Dumfries is 14 miles, Castle Douglas is 10 miles, Corsock Village is half-mile on the A712.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Corsock & Kirkpatrick Durham Church Of Scotland 60%

Laidlawstiel House

Clovenfords, Galashiels TD1 1TJ
Mr and Mrs P Litherland

Wednesday/Thursday, 28/29 May, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

2c

Walled garden containing herbaceous border, fruit and vegetables in raised beds. There are colourful rhododendrons and azaleas as well as splendid views down to the River Tweed.

Directions: On the A72 between Clovenfords and Walkerburn turn up the hill signposted for Thornielee. The house is on the right at the top of the hill.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Horse Time SCIO 60%

Silverburn Walled Garden

Fife Employment Access Team, No. 3 Silverburn Cottages Largo Road, Leven KY8 5PU
Martin McDonald

Saturday 31 May, 10am - 4pm. The plant sale and cafe will run during those hours, the garden is open 24 hours. (2025)

2c457k9

T:01333 278775 E:info@silverburnpark.co.uk

W:www.silverburnpark.co.uk

The Walled Garden was created by the Russell family in the late 1800s, showcasing their love of horticulture. In 2013, local mental health charity Fife Employment Access Trust took ownership of the park. Since then the garden has been regenerated by volunteers and clients. There is a sensory area, attractive herbaceous borders, specimen trees and plenty of ornithological interest. Benches and picnic tables, perfect for day trips or quiet reflection. Visitors can enjoy The Cottage Window Café, the real earth wildlife hide designed by Becky Little overlooking a pond with dipping platform, and a Giant Redwood Trail. In 2026 FEAT will open the renovated, B-listed Flax Mill as a multi-purpose visitor centre.

Directions: Accessible from the A915 heading east of Leven to St Andrews. Turn opposite Blacketyside Farm Shop, follow the road to the car park. Garden entrance is just beyond the cottages. Accessible on foot/bicycle along the Fife Coastal Path. Buses operate a hail and ride service at the main entrance on the A915.

Admission: by donation

Charities: FOSP 60%

Bonhard House

Perth PH2 7PQ
Stephen and Charlotte Hay

Also weekends 31 May-1 June and 5-6 July, 10am – 4pm. Homemade teas will be available on these weekends. (2025)

267

T:07990 574570 E:stephenjohnhay@me.com

Traditional 19th-century garden of five acres approached through an avenue of magnificent oaks. Mature trees, six classified by the National Tree Register as 'remarkable', including a monkey puzzle (1852, one of the first 12 brought to Scotland), sequoias, Douglas fir and a variety of hollies. Reinstated and new herbaceous borders. Rhododendron and azalea beds. Recently planted spring and summer flowering meadow areas with a variety of fruit and nut trees. Beehive and a productive vegetable garden. A new larch arbour with climbing roses and clematis. Grass paths meander through a pond area with shrubs and mature trees. A pinetum with 25 different varieties. Garden emphasis on wildlife habitat as well as aesthetics. Resident red squirrels. Plentiful and varied birdlife.

Directions: On the A94 just under a mile north of Perth take the right turn, signed Murrayshall Country Estate. After approximately one mile take the entrance right marked Bonhard House, at a sharp left turn. From Balbeggie turn left, signposted for Bonhard, one mile north of Scone. Turn right in a half-a-mile, pass any sign for Bonhard Nursery, and enter the drive at sharp right turn.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Freedom from Fistula Foundation 60%

Hospitalfield Gardens

Hospitalfield House, Westway, Arbroath DD11 2NH
Hospitalfield Trust

Saturday 31 May, 11am - 4pm (2025)

3467

E:info@hospitalfield.org.uk

W:www.hospitalfield.org.uk

In 2021 the walled garden at Hospitalfield was comprehensively redeveloped to a design by celebrated garden designer and plantsman, Nigel Dunnett. The new garden tells the 800-year horticultural story of this extraordinary site from its monastic origins in the 13th century through to the Victorian passion for ferns. You will be able to explore the garden in its first few years after planting as it continues to grow into its inspirational design; full of diverse textures and striking colours. The house that overlooks the garden was remodelled in the 19th century by Elizabeth Allan-Fraser and her husband, the artist Patrick Allan-Fraser, who designed their home in the Arts and Crafts style. Their fernery, which sits within the walled garden, has been restored and re-planted with ferns from all over the world and will also be open for visitors. Hospitalfield celebrated the opening of its Physic Garden in June of 2023, a project which introduced over 30 new medicinal plants to the garden along with an illustrated guided walk exploring Hospitalfield’s herbal history and the garden’s themes. For more information about Hospitalfield and its international cultural programme rooted in contemporary visual arts, please visit the website.

Directions: Comprehensive directions can be found on the website at hospitalfield.org.uk/visit/location/.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Mellerstain

Mellerstain House and Gardens, Gordon TD3 6LG
Gill Harrop, Administrator

Saturday 31 May 11am-5pm, admission £6, children free, light refreshments available outwith cafè opening. (2025)

3c67

T:01573 410225 E:enquiries@mellerstain.com

W:www.mellerstain.com

Mellerstain will be hosting three special open days to celebrate the garden and grounds at their finest. In February carpets of snowdrops spread throughout the grounds, followed by the glorious colour of rhododendrons and azaleas at the end of May, and finishing with stunning autumn colours in late October. 100 acres of mature parkland, formal gardens and lakeside walks set off this Robert Adam masterpiece. The formal gardens to the south of the house were designed in 1910 by Sir Reginald Blomfield in an Italianate style sympathetic to the earlier 18th century layout. These beautiful terraces with herbaceous borders and yew trees lead to lower terraces via a cryptoporticus, and then a sweeping expanse of lawn descends to the lake. Among the sturdy oaks and majestic beeches in the north parkland, you’ll find an enchanting tiny thatched cottage discreetly tucked away with its own parterre garden. A map is available of the woodland and lakeside walks, picnic spots are available and the cafe is open during the summer season. Look out for the Highland cattle and Hebridean sheep too!

Directions: The house is signposted on the A6089 Kelso-Gordon road. The approach from the A68 Jedburgh-Edinburgh road is through Earlston on the A6105, then via the B6397 towards Smailholm.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Mellerstain Trust 60%

Beechwood

Broughton, Peeblesshire ML12 6HH
Susheila and James Gordon

Saturday 31 May & Sunday 1 June, 11am - 5pm (2025)

267

T:07810 837068 or 01899 830443 E:susheilarachan@gmail.com

W:www.rachan.co.uk

An informal sculptor's garden adjacent to a mature woodland and pond. A well-planted stream runs through the garden. There are varied perennial meadows to encourage wildlife and provide forage for the resident bees, it also features many examples of the owners' artworks which are inspired by the natural world.

Directions: Approximately one mile south of Broughton take the B712 off the A701. Then first left turn onto unmade road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: MND Scotland 60%

Struanbridge

Essich Road, Inverness IV2 6AH
Marcus and Catriona Jenks

Saturday 31 May, 12pm - 5pm (2025)

247

E:mjenks@greenx.co.uk

A small, well-stocked garden approximately three miles from Inverness city centre, set on three levels each with its own distinct character. The entrance to the garden includes a decking area with a small fruit garden and raised beds. The small mid-tier area consists of mainly hydrangeas and rhododendrons and the very informal, hidden lower garden includes a wildlife pond, raised beds, and shaded garden area with a greenhouse, all framed by an old stone bridge and a small burn. Due to its layout, the garden is not suitable for wheelchairs and requires the ability to climb a number of steps to view.

Directions: From the Inverness Southern Distributor road (A8082) exit the Essich roundabout onto Essich Road. Struanbridge is located exactly a ½ mile from the roundabout, on the left. Parking is restricted.,

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Mikeysline 60%

River Garden, The Restoration of Auchincruive

The Bothy Office, Auchincruive KA6 5AE
Head Gardener

Saturday 31 May & Sunday 1 June & Saturday/Sunday, 7/8 June, 12:30pm - 3:30pm (2025)

3467

E:enquiries@ifdas.net

The gardens date back to the 1900s, Auchincruive is steeped in horticultural history as the site used to be the West of Scotland Agricultural College. The gardens are going through major redevelopment to bring it back to its former glory, including restoring the secret garden, walled garden, herbaceous borders and ponds that are within the gardens. Our main focus is to produce vegetables for the Bothy Cafe, we have two large vegetable growing areas, one plot is no dig and the other is dig. We also have an arboretum that contains rare and endangered trees, including Sorbus arranensis, Sequoia sempervirens, Sequoiadendron giganteum and Cryptomeria japonica. The gardens also contain fruit, orchid and greenhouses and the grounds has a total of 48 acres that consist of woodlands, cafe and gardens. Our gardens are used therapeutically to help residents overcome addiction and improve their mental well being.

Directions: River Garden is located two minutes by car from the main Whitletts roundabout at the junction of the A77/B743. At the roundabout, take the B743 turn signposted Mossblown. At the bend in the road turn right into the Nellie’s Gate entrance at bus stop KA65.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: IFDAS 60%

Muckhart Open Gardens

Coronation Hall, Pool of Muckhart, Dollar FK14 7JF
The Gardeners of Muckhart Village

Saturday 31 May & Sunday 1 June, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

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A collection of gardens in and around the Pool o’Muckhart and Yetts o’Muckhart, some of which have not opened previously. For a small village Muckhart boasts an enchanting variety of cottage and informal gardens displaying some of the best and most thoughtfully considered aspects of amateur gardening in this part of Scotland. From wildlife-friendly gardens and magnificent trees, to beautiful and constantly-evolving gardens where paths meander through terraced beds and ponds, and pocket-sized cottage gardens. Visitors cannot fail to be inspired by the variety of gardens, and the commitment of our gardeners.

Directions: On the A91, four miles east of Dollar. Parking at Muckhart Coronation Hall, Pool of Muckhart FK14 7JF.

Admission: £7.00, children free

Charities: Muckhart Kirk Session 20%, Coronation Hall, Muckhart 20% & Muckhart Primary School 20%

Dundonnell House

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QW
Dundonnell Estates

Saturday 31 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c6e7

T:07789 390028 E:sueandwill@icloud.com

Camellias, magnolias and bulbs in spring, rhododendrons and laburnum walk in this ancient walled garden. Exciting planting gives all year round interest, centred around one of the oldest yew trees in Scotland. A water sculpture, unique Victorian glass house, riverside walk, arboretum - all in the valley below the peaks of An Teallach.
Champion Trees: Yew and Holly

Directions: Turn off the A835 at Braemore on to the A832. After 11 miles take the Badralloch turn for a ½ mile.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 30% & Environmental Investigation Agency 30%

Westgate

12 Glamis Drive, Dundee DD2 1QL
John and Frances Dent

Saturday 31 May & Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c846

This established garden, with many mature trees, occupies a south-facing site overlooking the River Tay and Fife hills. The tennis court lawn is surrounded by herbaceous plants and shrubs. A short woodland walk reveals a miniature knot garden, a bower and other surprise features. There are also rose beds and two oriental-themed water gardens. At the summer opening there will be a chance to relax with tea, cake and music . In October, all the areas will be displaying their autumn colours and, as darkness falls, they will be further enlivened by a variety of lighting techniques (torches recommended).

Directions: Buses 5, 22 or 73 from Dundee city centre. Please note there is no roadside parking on Glamis Drive. Limited disabled parking is available at the house.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Maggie Keswick Jencks Cancer Caring Centres Trust (Dundee) 60%

Elvanrock

Watson Street, Banchory AB31 5TR
Margaret Owen

Saturday 31 May & Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

249

E:margaret.owen@gmail.com

A town garden on a south-facing slope, redesigned over five years to manage the slopes. Planned for year round colour and ease of care. The garden offers five peaceful seating areas to enjoy the cottage garden borders, surrounded by a selection of rhododendron, Cornus kousa and flowering cherries with views across the Dee Valley.

Directions: By bus, alight at either Banchory Primary school (3 minute walk along Ramsay Road) or at Banchory High Street (10 minute walk uphill via Arbeadie Terrace and Elms Rise). On street parking is available.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Blood Cancer UK 60%

Quercus Garden Plants

Whitmuir Farm, West Linton EH46 7BB
Rona Dodds

Sunday 1 June, 10am - 5pm (2025)

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T:01968 660708 E:quercusgardenplants@gmail.com

W:www.quercusgardenplants.co.uk

We are a small, independent nursery growing and selling a wide range of happy, healthy plants propagated from our nursery gardens. At just under two acres, these gardens were started in 2015 to show visitors and customers what can be grown in our conditions here on a north-west-facing hill at 850 feet above sea level. Explore our herb garden, scented garden, wildlife garden, prairie-style garden, winter garden and all the other inspirational smaller borders. Our new woodland garden opened in Spring 2023. Many of the plants seen in the gardens are available to buy in the nursery.

Directions: On the A701, four miles south of the Leadburn junction or two miles north of West Linton.

Admission: by donation

Charities: Breast Cancer Now 60%

Damnaglaur House

Drummore, Stranraer DG9 9QN
Frances Collins

Sunday 1 June, 1pm - 5pm. Homemade teas will be available at additional cost. (2025)

2c67

T:01776 840636/ 07884 435353 E:chunky.collins@btinternet.com

Since moving into Damnaglaur House in 1991, its owners have totally transformed the garden, putting in a series of ‘semi-terraces’ and, following the planting of wind-defeating shrubs, they were able to introduce many special herbaceous plants and trees. Just short of half-an-acre, the garden has slowly evolved into one which feels substantially larger because of its design; the gravel paths weave their way through many hidden corners to come upon countless gems. The views from the garden are stunning, down to Drummore, across Luce Bay and in the far distance, to the Galloway Hills. An archway, arbour and pergola give extra height for the planting. Seating around the garden gives visitors a chance to sit and enjoy their surroundings, especially close to the pond with its numerous fish and trickling waterfall. The inevitable removal of a huge and very old but beloved ash tree with ‘die back’ was accomplished in 2023 but the disruption was amazingly short-lived. The young trees and shrubs planted nearby will take many years to compensate for its loss but the wider area now accommodates more rhododendrons and azaleas, surrounded by a surge of foxgloves. Various areas have been replanted over the past few years, with a small ‘seaside’ garden being introduced.

Directions: From Drummore, follow signs to the Mull of Galloway for a mile on the B7041 to junction with B7065; Damnaglaur is on the right.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: British Red Cross: Yemen appeal 60%

Geilston Garden

Main Road, Cardross G82 5HD
The National Trust for Scotland

Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c46

T:01389 849187 E:geilstongarden@nts.org.uk

W:www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/Geilston-Garden/

Geilston Garden has many attractive features including the walled garden with herbaceous border providing summer colour, tranquil woodland walks and a large working kitchen garden. This is the ideal season for viewing the Siberian iris in flower along the Geilston Burn and the Japanese azaleas.

Directions: On the A814, one mile from Cardross towards Helensburgh.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Brooklands

Crocketford DG2 8QH
Mr and Mrs Robert Herries

Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c67

T:Gardener, Matthew Grieve: 07765 491902

Large old walled garden with a wide selection of plants, including some interesting shrubs and climbers and a kitchen garden. Mature woodland with many established rhododendrons and azaleas, and carpeted with snowdrops in February.

Directions: Turn off the A712 Crocketford to New Galloway Road one mile outside Crocketford at the Gothic gatehouse (on the right travelling north).

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

14 East Brighton Crescent

Portobello, Edinburgh EH15 1LR
Jim and Sue Hurford

Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

46

E:sue.hurford@gmail.com

Roughly two thirds of an acre suburban garden, developed over 40 years. People have said the following about it: 'A little bit of countryside in the town', 'Booming with green', 'A bosky bower' and 'There is such a wide range of plant material and every little corner holds a new gem'.

Directions: Buses 21, 12 and 49 to Brighton Place, and 15, 26, 40 and 45 to Portobello High Street. Brighton Place intersects Portobello High Street just east of the bus stops.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: The Trussell Trust 60%

Thorntree

Arnprior FK8 3EY
Mark and Carol Seymour

Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c6

T:01786 870710 E:carolseymour666@gmail.com

W:www.thorntreebarn.co.uk

See the amazing views from Aberfoyle and the hills beyond to Doune. Thorntree is a cottage garden that has evolved from growing dried flowers into triangle beds to meander through with more and more plants filling in gaps! This year's task was pruning trees to make sure the sun gets through. The garden is kept with the aid of WRAGS trainees, now our 6th - they come for a year to be trained two days a week. I am so grateful to them all. I kept the garden as much as possible as the farmer's wife who lived here before had it - 33 years ago! Every year is different. In 2024 the hydrangeas all flowered so well, and roses were still in full first bloom in October. We are also usually here so come and see: just email to make sure we are not out.

Directions: On the A811, to Arnprior, then take the Fintry Road; Thorntree is second on the right.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Forth Driving Group RDA SCIO 60%

Stobo Japanese Water Garden

Stobo Farm, Stobo EH45 8NX

Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

46

E:enquiries@stobofarmestate.com

This is a mature, secluded woodland garden created in the early 1900s. Its most prominent feature is the constant presence of water that adds to the tranquillity of the garden, beginning with the drama of a waterfall at its head through a cascade of ponds, punctuated along the way by stepping stones and bridges. The garden was brought to life when Japanese style was the height of fashion – hence its cherry trees, maples, and iconic Japanese lanterns, ‘tea house’ and humpback bridge. The azaleas and rhododendrons provide a spectacular display in the spring. Limited disabled access due to gravel paths and steps. Visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear.

Directions: Off the B712 (Peebles/Broughton road) via Stobo Castle entrance. Bus 91

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Stobo and Drumelzier Church of Scotland 20%, Firefly 20% & Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 20%

Cowhill Tower

Holywood DG2 0RL
Mr and Mrs P Weatherall

Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c5d7

T:01387 720304 E:clara@cowhill.co.uk

This is an interesting walled garden. There are topiary animals, birds and figures and beautiful woodland and river walks. Splendid views can be seen from the lawn right down the Nith Valley. There is also a variety of statues, including several from the Far East.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00109

Directions: Holywood is one-and-a-half miles off the A76, five miles north of Dumfries.

Admission: by donation

Charities: Maggie's 60%

Ardverikie with Aberarder

Kinloch Laggan, Newtonmore PH20 1BX
The Fielden family, Mrs P Laing and Mrs E T Smyth-Osbourne

Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5:30pm (2025)

167

T:01528 544300 E:amanda@ardverikie.com

Ardverikie

Kinloch Laggan, Newtonmore, PH20 1BX (Mrs P Laing and Mrs E T Smyth-Osbourne):

Lovely setting on Loch Laggan with magnificent trees. Walled garden with large collection of acers, shrubs and herbaceous plants. Architecturally interesting house (not open) featured in Monarch of the Glen and The Crown .

Aberarder

Kinloch Laggan, Newtonmore, PH20 1BX (The Fielden Family):

The garden has been laid out over the last 20 years to create a mixture of spring and autumn plants and trees, including rhododendrons, azaleas and acers. The elevated view down Loch Laggan from the garden is exceptional.

Directions: On the A86 between Newtonmore and Spean Bridge. Ardverikie House entrance is at the east end of Loch Laggan via the bridge by Gatelodge. Aberarder Lodge entrance is about 200 metres west of the Ardverikie entrance, next to the small cottage.

Admission: £8.00, children free

Charities: Laggan Parish Church 30% & Highland Hospice 30%

West Leas

near Bonchester Bridge TD9 8TD
Mr and Mrs Robert Laidlaw

Sunday 1 June & Sunday 3 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

267

T:01450 860711 E:ann@johnlaidlawandson.co.uk

The visitor to West Leas can share in an exciting and dramatic project on a grand scale, one that is constantly growing and evolving. A feat of liquid engineering, with a cascading stream contrasting with slow water pools. At its core is a passion for plants, allied to a love and understanding of the land in which they are set. Collections of perennials and shrubs lighten up the landscape to magical effect. The lily pond and woodland planting was added in 2019 and a courtyard garden links to the humidity controlled garden rooms housing a collection of exotics .

Directions: Signposted off the Jedburgh/Bonchester Bridge Road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support: Borders Appeal 60%

The Potting Shed

Broughton Place, Broughton, Biggar ML12 6HJ
Jane and Graham Buchanan-Dunlop

Wednesday 4 June, Wednesday 11 June, Wednesday 25 June & Wednesday 2 July, 11am - 5pm (2025)

c67

T:01899 830574 E:buchanandunlop@btinternet.com

A one-acre garden begun from scratch in 2008, on an exposed hillside at 900 feet. It contains herbaceous plants, climbers, shrubs and trees - all selected for wind resistance and ability to cope with the poor, stony soil. There are usually fine views to the Southern Uplands.

Directions: Signposted from the main A701 Edinburgh - Moffat Road, immediately north of Broughton village.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Nomad Beat Ltd: Peebles Community Music School 60%

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn

Wednesdays only, 4 - 25 June, 1pm - 4pm. (2025)

7

T:01721 740220 E:rpthorburn@icloud.com

Kirkton Manor House has a delightful, three-acre, informal country garden set in the beautiful Manor Valley. It enjoys spectacular open views and calling curlews from its riverside position. Bluebells flank the impressive entrance leading to a new shrub border. Stone steps continue through to terraced slopes filled with bulbs, roses and hellebores providing height, interest and fragrance. Grass paths meander along the burn where snowdrops, blue and white camassia, meconopsis, and ligularia thrive in this sunny meadow environment. Later, in June, sisyrinchiums, irises, orchids and many flowering shrubs and roses are abundant. The natural woodland includes many interesting trees.

Directions: Turn off the A72 west of Neidpath Castle, signposted to Kirkton Manor. After crossing the River Tweed, enter a garden gate which is a mile downhill, opposite a Beware Horses sign.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Bradystone House

Murthly PH1 4EW
Mrs James Lumsden

Thursdays only from 5 June to 11 September, 11am - 4pm, admission £5, children free. (2025)

c467

T:01738 710308 E:pclumsden@me.com

A sophisticated cottage garden converted from a derelict farm steading. Imaginative and abundant planting with unusual and special perennials, clematis, roses, abutilons and shrubs. There is an interesting and bountiful plant stall. Small vegetable garden and orchard, meandering woodland walks and a duck pond. A tranquil setting with elegant planting. Garden groups welcome by arrangement. Dogs on leads please.

Directions: From south/north follow the A9 to Bankfoot, then signs to Murthly. At the crossroads in Murthly take the private road to Bradystone.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 60%

Mouse Cottage

Strathtay, Pitlochry PH9 0PG
Penny Kennedy

Friday/Saturday, 6/7 June, 10am - 4pm (2025)

3c4k

T:07799 678067 E:mymousecottage@outlook.com

W:www.mymousecottage.co.uk

Mouse Cottage sits on a south-facing hill overlooking Strathtay. Small but packed with interesting features, it is a semi-wild haven of secret places where self-seeders mix with annuals and more formal planting. The owner is an artist who adores her garden space and collects quirky planting containers such as dustbins and dolly tubs. Her Pear Parasol and Holly Brolly are amongst her favourite features. Gravel paths wind through shady places full of joyous surprises such as Crambe cordifolia. Self catering and B & B accommodation is available at: www.mymousecottage.co.uk

Directions: From the A9 take the exit at Ballinluig signposted Aberfeldy. Go through Logierait, after about four miles turn right at T junction. At Grandtully turn right, over the bridge, up the hill to Strathtay Post Office. Turn right passing the golf course up to the red telephone box. Mouse Cottage is next opening on the left, signposted. Please beware of flying golf balls! NB: No parking at Mouse Cottage. On street parking possible at Strathtay. Bus 23 (Aberfeldy to Perth) stops at Grandtully Bridge.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Cloan

by Auchterarder PH3 1PP
Neil Mitchison

Saturday/Sunday, 7/8 June, 10am - 5pm (2025)

267

T:07958 155831 E:niall@fastmail.co.uk

Two acres of wild garden, with a wide variety of rhododendrons and azaleas, and an impressive collection of trees, including metasequoia, cryptomeria, Acer cappadocicum, Sequoia sempervirens, Quercus robur ‘Filicifolia’, liriodendron, several Japanese maples, magnificent beech and Scots pine trees, and extensive yew topiary; also an acre of walled garden with embothriums, Acer griseum, several sorbus varieties, parrotia and a large herbaceous border. Fine views of Strathearn from the front of the house.

Directions: From the A823, just south of the A9, follow the small road heading north east, signposted Duchally. Continue for approximately 2½ miles, turn right at the sign Coulshill. Continue for just under ½ mile. Follow the signs for car parking.

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Tiphereth Limited: Camphill Scotland 60%

Oatridge College Campus - SRUC

Ecclesmachan, Broxburn, West Lothian EH52 6NH
Oatridge College Campus - SRUC

Saturday 7 June, 12pm - 5pm (2025)

0c4679

T:01506 864800 E:gmcgillivray@sruc.ac.uk

W:https://www.sruc.ac.uk

SRUC Oatridge Campus situated within 700 acres of mixed grounds, is a land-based college comprised largely of agricultural with arable areas, but also hosts Horticulture and Landscaping, the Scottish National Equestrian Centre, Engineering and Animal Care departments. Benefitting from formal planted areas with named and labelled specimen plants, the campus presents an inviting and diverse mixture of planting styles to explore. From prairie planting, an alpine rockery, numerous specimen trees, productive allotment areas, a woodland walk and herbaceous borders, the visit is sure to have something for everyone. The student polytunnels and glasshouses offer an additional glimpse of some of the propagation techniques demonstrated by students. Visitors can explore the extensive woodland walks of the National Paths For All demonstration site. This project was developed to show several different materials, design and construction methods to use when creating walking paths.

Directions: The college is well signposted. Turn into Ecclesmachan Village, then immediately left and up the main college drive. The car park is on the left at the top of the drive. Buses 31 and 32 from Linlithgow, Uphall Station and Livingston, then approx a six minute walk.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: SRUC: Student Hardship Fund 60%

Easter Laggan

Dulnain Bridge, Grantown-on-Spey PH26 3NU
Rob and Julie Forrest

Saturday 7 June, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

67

A garden under development, designed by Jens Nielsen. It has stunning views of the River Spey and the Cairngorm mountains and is a haven for wildlife, including red squirrels. Five acres in size, the garden consists of some formal lawns with herbaceous borders, newly-created rockeries and drystone walls and the beginnings of a Japanese garden. A stream enters the garden and flows into a newly restored pond. The stream then winds its way through the garden back in to the surrounding fields. Gravel driveways allow some wheelchair access with assistance.

Directions: From Grantown-on-Spey take the A95 towards Aviemore. Take the first turn signed to Dulnain Bridge, then turn immediately right on to the old road. Turn immediately left up the track signed to Easter Laggan. Parking is available in a paddock by the house.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: The Rotherham Hospice Trust 60%

Redcroft

23 Murrayfield Road, Edinburgh EH12 6EP
James and Anna Buxton

Saturday 7 June, 4pm - 7pm (2025)

3c8467

T:07989 977701 E:annabuxtonb@aol.com

Redcroft is a mature walled garden surrounding an attractive Arts and Crafts house. It is a hidden haven off a busy road with a variety of different features and habitats: old shrubberies and trees, an orchard, a rockery, a pond, and an extensive lawn with contrasting longer grass. It is well maintained with clipped shrubs and some cloud pruning. June is very colourful with many flowering shrubs and wall plants, and there should be a good display in the greenhouse. Children and buggies are very welcome, dogs on leads too. We hope older children will enjoy our treehouse.

Directions: Murrayfield Road runs north from Corstorphine Road to Ravelston Dykes. There is easy free parking. Buses 12, 26, and 31, get off at Murrayfield Stadium. Bus 38 goes along Murrayfield Road.

Admission: £7.00, children free

Charities: The Church of the Good Shepherd, Murrayfield 60%

Castle Kennedy Gardens

Stranraer DG9 8SJ
The Earl and Countess of Stair

Sunday 8 June, 10am - 5pm (2025)

3c46e7

T:01581 400225

W:www.castlekennedygardens.com

Romantically situated, these famous 75 acres of landscaped gardens are located on an isthmus surrounded by two large natural lochs. At one end, the ruined Castle Kennedy overlooks a beautiful herbaceous walled garden with Lochinch Castle at the other end. With over 300 years of planting, there is an impressive collection of rare trees, rhododendrons, exotic shrubs and many spectacular Champion Trees. The stunning snowdrop walks, daffodils, spring flowers, rhododendron and magnolia displays and herbaceous borders make this a ‘must visit’ garden throughout the year.
Champion Trees: 95 in total; including 12 British, 30 Scottish, 44 for Dumfries and Galloway and 9 trees described as ‘otherwise remarkable’.

Directions: On the A75, five miles east of Stranraer. The nearest train station is in Stranraer. The garden is on a local bus route.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Home-Start Wigtownshire 60%

Coul House

Coul House, Maree Way, Glenrothes KY7 6NW
Dean and Clare Ansell

Sunday 8 June & Sunday 17 August, 11am - 3pm (2025)

257

T:07525 791277 E:Clareansell5@gmail.com

A hidden gem, Coul garden lies within the grounds of Coul House, an imposing B-listed Victorian farmhouse which dates back to circa 1875. A mix of hydrangeas, roses, rhododendron and wisteria are contained in this ever-evolving amateur garden. The garden has more recently been redesigned with hard landscaping and includes a small pond. Come and take a walk around and enjoy a cup of tea and home baking.

Directions: From the A92, follow signs for Pitcairn.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Breakthrough T1D 30% & Glenrothes & District Foodbank 30%

Laura's Wood

Hools, St. Margaret's Hope, Orkney KW17 2RH
Arthur and Laura Cromarty

Sunday 8 June, 11am - 4pm (2025)

267k9

E:acrom265@aol.com

W:www.westshaird.co.uk

Tree planting began in March 2010. 1,500 varied species were planted into a half acre of rough ground. Several varieties of willow were planted around the perimeter to provide a wind break for other less hardy trees. There was once a house on this site which is long gone but some of the ground around it remains very stony which has hampered planting in those areas. We used a pick to assist planting here; not everything survived so we have planted annually to fill in any gaps. Half an acre adjacent to the trees is annually sown with bird seed mix. Seeds included kale, mustard, crimson clover, phacelia, rape, buckwheat, borage, corn marigolds, oats and barley to feed the wild birds. We have added various bulbs such as daffodils, crocuses and bluebells. We also planted pampas, New Zealand Flax, gunnera and ferns.

Directions: Follow the A961 past the village of St Margaret's Hope then take the first signed road for Herston (B9042). Follow this road past Kirkhouse Mill and Farm then turn right over the brig. Follow this road until you come to a forked junction. Take the left hand branch up the hill (not the Herston turn off) and Hools is second left on this road (signposted at the end of Farm Road). Parking will be available in the field below the house.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Parkinsons UK 60%

Westlea

Cromarty Square, St. Margaret's Hope, Orkney KW17 2SN
Shaun Hourston-Wells

Sunday 8 June, 11am - 4pm (2025)

4

This relatively sheltered garden (by Orkney standards!), centrally placed within the village of St. Margaret’s Hope, has a wonderful, established tree backdrop. The garden demonstrates that a relatively small space can be transformed into a plant-packed paradise! Plants that are usually difficult to grow in Orkney thrive here and the lush green paths give wonderful access to a rich range of plants.

Directions: Westlea is at the top of Cromarty Square, furthest from the sea, and sits adjacent to the Cromarty Hall, in St. Margaret’s Hope (known locally as “The Hup”). Parking is available in Cromarty Square. The X1 bus (Stromness and Kirkwall, to St. Margaret’s Hope) stops right outside Westlea.

Admission: by donation

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Ilha de Deus

Tiroran, Isle of Mull PA69 6ET
John Innes

Sunday 8 June, Sunday 6 July & Sunday 3 August, 12pm - 5pm (2025)

2c79

T:01681705022 E:johninnes2009@hotmail.com

Half-acre garden with stunning views of Loch Scridain, the Ross of Mull, and surrounded by mountains and community forest. The current owner has been developing the garden over the last four years with a collection of rhododendrons, camellias, fruit trees, roses, ferns, peonies, lilies and a few exotics from the southern hemisphere, together with three small ponds. Dogs welcome on leads. Small selection of plants for sale. Kindly walk on gravel paths and grassy areas only.

Directions: From A849 (Craignure to Fionnphort) turn right at Kinloch junction onto B8035 'Scenic route to Salen'. The Garden is on the left after 4.5 miles immediately opposite Balevulin. The Saltire is flying when the wind is below 30mph.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Open Doors with Brother Andrew 60%

Ardchattan Priory

North Connel PA37 1RQ
Mrs Sarah Troughton

Sunday 8 June, 12pm - 4pm (2025)

2c85d7

E:admin@ardchattan.co.uk

W:www.ardchattan.co.uk

Overlooking Loch Etive, Ardchattan Priory Garden has a mature rockery and extensive herbaceous and rose borders to the front of the house. On either side of the drive, shrub borders, numerous roses and ornamental trees, together with bulbs, give colour throughout the season. The Priory, founded in 1230, is now a private house. The ruins of the chapel and graveyard are in the care of Historic Environment Scotland and open with the garden.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00019

Directions: Oban 10 miles. From north, turn left off the A828 at Barcaldine onto the B845 for six miles. From east or from Oban on the A85, cross Connel Bridge and turn first right, proceed east on Bonawe Road.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Norton House

1 North Deeside Road, Kincardine O'Neil, Aboyne, Aberdeenshire AB34 5AA
Andrew and Nicola Bradford

Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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Norton House, on the edge of the historic village of Kincardine O’Neil, dates from 1840. In the main this is a mature garden with large trees, shrubs, herbaceous borders, rockeries and a small orchard. An area that was neglected for decades has seen much tree-felling and work is in progress to make a woodland garden. Following last year’s hugely successful first SGS opening you are invited to return to see progress and enjoy a scrummy tea and a social event.

Directions: Situated on the A93 at the eastern end of Kincardine O'Neil. Accessible by bus, the Stagecoach 201 service.

Admission: £10.00, children free

Charities: Children 1ST 60%

The Limes

Kirkcudbright DG6 4XD
David and Carolyn McHale

Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

6

E:carolyn.mchale@btinternet.com

This one-and-a-quarter acre plantswoman’s garden has a variety of different plant habitats: woodland, dry sunny gravel beds, rock garden, crevice garden and mixed perennial and shrub borders. There is also a large productive vegetable garden. The McHales like to grow most of their plants from seed obtained through various international seed exchanges. You can expect to see a large number of unusual and exciting plants. The garden is full of colour with an abundance of spring flowers in March, and in late May and early June the meconopsis should be at their best. The gravel garden comes into its own in July and continues through until winter. Hardy cyclamen are a big favourite and one species or another is in flower in almost every month of the year. Winter is a good time to admire their varied leaf forms.

Directions: In Kirkcudbright go straight along St Mary Street towards Dundrennan. The Limes is on the right, about half a mile from the town centre crossroads, on the edge of the town.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Friends Of Kirkcudbright Swimming Pool 60%

Capenoch

Penpont, Thornhill DG3 4LZ
Mr and Mrs John Gladstone

Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2467

E:jbgladstone@gmail.com

There are rare trees throughout the grounds and the main garden is the remnant of that laid out in Victorian times. There is a pretty little raised knot garden called the Italian Garden and a lovely old Victorian conservatory. Parking is available in a field half way up the drive, but you may prefer to park in Penpont Village and walk the whole way to Capenoch. There are lovely wildflowers in the oak woods on either side of the drive.

Directions: Take the A702 west from Thornhill, drive through Penpont and the entrance to the house is at the lodge on the left-hand side, just at the speed restriction sign.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Ronald McDonald House Glasgow 60%

Dean Gardens

Edinburgh EH4 1QE
Dean Gardens Management Committee

Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

28467

Nine acres of semi-woodland garden with spring bulbs on the steep banks of the Water of Leith in central Edinburgh. Founded in the 1860s by local residents, the Dean Gardens contain part of the great structure of the Dean Bridge, a Thomas Telford masterpiece of 1835. Lawns, paths, trees and shrubs with lovely views to the weir in the Dean Village and to St Bernard’s Well. There is also a children’s play area.

Directions: Entrance at Ann Street or Eton Terrace.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Arbuthnott House Gardens

Arbuthnott House, Laurencekirk AB30 1PA
Chris and Emily Arbuthnott

Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

E:arbuthnotthouse@gmail.com

W:www.arbuthnott.co.uk

Arbuthnott House is the seat of the Viscount of Arbuthnott, whose family has lived here since 1190. The five-acre garden was laid out in the 17th century and comprises a walled garden with some 1920s Arts and Crafts planting. Thought to be one of the oldest gardens in Scotland, it runs down a steep, south-facing slope that is divided by three main broadwalks which run horizontally and are intercepted with diagonal pathways. The vegetables and soft fruit are contained within beds which are bound by topiary, herbaceous borders, rose beds and long beds for cut flowers.

Directions: Located at the heart of Arbuthnott Estate, just off the B967 Inverbervie to Fordoun. Three miles off the A90.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: UNICEF UK: Lebanon Appeal 60%

Maggie's Edinburgh

Western General Hospital, Crewe Road, Edinburgh EH4 2XU
Maggie's Centre

Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c45

W:www.maggies.org

At Maggie’s we believe that gardens can have an amazing, positive effect on health and well-being. Each of our centres has a beautiful garden designed alongside the building to ensure a strong connection between the outside and inside. The garden was designed by Emma Keswick and has been adapted to grow and flourish alongside two new extensions. The walled garden and statue gardens create a connection with nature and the ever-changing seasons. Emma’s planting design ensures the garden has year-round colour and creates a calming transition away from the hospital. The garden is fully accessible for all with enclosed spaces cleverly interspersed with more open areas with longer views.

Directions: Maggie’s is located behind Ward 1 at the Western General Hospital. Enter the hospital at the Crewe Road entrance (Hospital Main drive), follow the path under the road bridge and take the first left into Maggie’s. Lothian Buses: 19, 19A, 28, 28B, 29, 37, 37A, 38; First Bus: 129. For vehicle access enter the hospital via the Telford Road entrance, parking is free, follow parking signs on the day.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Maggie's 60%

Belhaven House with Belhaven Hill School

Belhaven Road, Dunbar EH42 1NN
Mr and Mrs Jon Bruneau and Mr Olly Langton

Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

6

Belhaven House has four acres of formal Georgian gardens. It comprises raised herbaceous borders with topiary features for structure, beautiful abundant rose archways and a walled vegetable and fruit garden with box-edged borders. There is also a woodland area with specimen trees dating from the early 20th century and in springtime this area is carpeted with daffodils and bluebells. The garden has been associated with a succession of people interested in plants since the 19th century, most notably Sir George Taylor, a former director of Kew Gardens.

Belhaven Hill School Originally called Winterfield House, the school has retained the garden in front of the walled garden which is accessed through an ornate gate and archway and is laid to lawn with box-edged borders, some containing wildflowers. A gate from the playing field leads to the Belhaven House garden.

Directions: By car, approaching Dunbar from A1 on A1087, Belhaven House is opposite Brewery Lane on the junction with Duke Street and the school entrance is a further 300 yards past a high stone wall. Public transport — bus X7 to Dunbar from Edinburgh.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Can Do 60%

The Bishop's House

Glencairn Road, Kilmacolm PA13 4PD
The Yacoubian family

Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c46

The Bishop’s House is one of six villas in Kilmacolm designed by James Salmon in 1905. It was originally named Miyanoshta but renamed when it became the official residence of the Catholic Bishops of Paisley (1948-1993). The house is now a family home and much care has been taken in preserving the house and garden, both in landscaping and planting, which remain mostly as designed by Salmon. The house sits at the top of the garden and is framed by mature beech trees. There is a burn running down the side of the property (children should be supervised).

Directions: Please access the garden from the Glencairn Road entrance. Turn off the A761 in the centre of Kilmacolm onto Houston Road or Porterfield Road for access to the garden on Glencairn Road. Follow SGS signage. Parking on-road. McGill's buses run through Kilmacolm on the A761.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Glasgow Samaritans 60%

Elsewhere Garden

Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Govan Road, Glasgow G51 4TF
Shiona Blackie

Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

84579

W:www.teapot-trust.org/elsewhere-garden-glasgow

Tucked in a hidden nook of the grounds of Glasgow’s Royal Hospital for Children, the Elsewhere Garden has transformed what was once a purposeless grassed landscape into a playful refuge for patients and staff. The garden was commissioned by Teapot Trust, a charity bringing play and art therapy to chronically sick children, and designed by Semple Begg, who chose a palette of plants to inspire creativity and imagination, for which they won a gold medal at RHS Chelsea 2023. The planting was adapted for the Glasgow location, where you'll meet an array of candy-coloured blooms, whimsical grasses and ferns, and the two characterful Picea abies ‘Inversa’. On the day, scan a QR code to hear the soundscapes designed for the Chelsea installation, and pause at one of the many seating spots to let your imagination roam.

Directions: Follow the signs to QEUH G51 4TF and the SGS yellow signs.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Teapot Trust: Elsewhere Garden 60%

36 Muirfield

Perth PH1 1JJ
Rob Mackay and Amanda Brown

Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

046

T:07704 978348 E:mackaybrownjoint@gmail.com

A small, suburban garden with a Japanese theme. The garden was designed and planted in 2019 with the aim of being low maintenance and offering a fun and safe environment for children. The Japanese features include a stone lantern, a water bowl, the placing of rocks, raked gravel and a timber building. The planting includes prunus, acer, bamboo, hostas, ferns and flowering plants. Foliage and texture are important elements. Views of the distant hills are seen as an extension of the garden in the Japanese tradition.

Directions: Muirfield connects Muirend Road with Burghmuir Road. 36 Muirfield is the white bungalow near the junction with Muirend Road on the left-hand side as you travel up the hill. The number 8 bus from Mill Street in the centre runs every hour, alight at Fairies Road just before the junction with Viewlands Road West. Go straight over the mini roundabout continuing along Fairies Road. At the next mini roundabout turn left into Muirend Road. Muirfield is the first turning on the right with number 36 the second house on the right. If coming by car please park on Muirend Road to avoid blocking neighbours' access.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Amnesty International UK Section Charitable Trust 60%

Oldtown of Leys Garden

Inverness IV2 6AE
David and Anne Sutherland

Open daily (closed Thursday and Friday 1 May - 31 October), 8am - 8pm. (2025)

467

T:01463 238238 E:ams@oldtownofleys.com

Established in 2003, on the outskirts of Inverness, with views over the town, this large garden of three acres has year-round interest. Spring rhododendrons and azaleas, summer herbaceous plantings, autumn trees and shrubs and winter appeal from the conifers, evergreens and structures. Features include a rockery, ponds, musical instruments, a stumpery and a new area of late summer colour.

Directions: Turn off Southern Distributor road (B8082) at Leys roundabout towards Inverarnie (B861). At the T-junction turn right. After 50 metres turn right into Oldtown of Leys.

Admission: by donation

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & Highland Hospice 30%

Burgie Arboretum

Between Forres and Elgin IV36 2QU
Hamish Lochore

Open daily, 8am - 5pm (2025)

b7

T:01343 850231 E:hamish@burgie.org

A rare opportunity to see a sizeable woodland garden/arboretum in its infancy. It has a good collection of rhododendrons, Sorbus, alder, birch and Tilia but also includes many unusual trees from around the world. The arboretum is zoned into geographic areas and species type. It includes a Japanese Garden, bog garden, bog wood, loch and quarry garden. First created in 2005 and is ongoing. Most plants are grown from hand-collected seed and propagated in the Georgian greenhouse.

Directions: A96 between Forres and Elgin. Four miles east of Forres. Six miles west of Elgin. Sign to Burgie Mains along the A96 is set in wrought iron decorated with horses and cattle. South off the main road and one mile to the Woodland Garden car park.

Admission: by donation

Charities: World Horse Welfare 30% & Sandpiper Trust 30%

Glenapp Castle

Ballantrae, Girvan KA26 0NZ
Mr Paul Szkiler

Open daily, dawn - dusk (2025)

6ed7

T:01465 831212 E:info@glenappcastle.com

W:www.glenappcastle.com

The 36-acre grounds at Glenapp Castle are secluded and private. Many rare and unusual plants and shrubs can be found, including magnificent specimen rhododendrons. Paths meander round the azalea pond, through established woodland leading to the wonderful walled garden with a 150-foot Victorian glasshouse. Fresh herbs and fruit from the garden are used every day in the castle kitchen. Much of the gardens were designed by Gertrude Jekyll (1843-1932), the world-famous garden designer, applying the principles of the Arts and Crafts Movement, who worked in collaboration with Edwin Lutyens. A new walk has been created opening up the Glen, where Glenapp’s Champion Trees will be found.
Champion Trees: Abies cilicica, Cercidiphyllum japonicum and Picea likiangensis

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00192

Directions: From the north take the A77 south. Pass through Ballantrae, crossing the River Stinchar as you leave. Take the first turning on the right, 100 yards beyond the river (not signposted). From the south take the A77 north, turn left 100 yards before the bridge over Stinchar at Ballantrae. The castle gates are one mile along this road.

Admission: by donation

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Angus's Garden, Barguillean

Taynuilt PA35 1HY
The Josephine Marshall Trust

Open daily, 9am - dusk (2025)

7k

T:01866 822333 E:info@barguillean.co.uk

W:www.barguillean.co.uk

Created in 1957 as a memorial garden by Betty Macdonald of Barguillean for her son Angus, this picturesque nine-acre woodland garden is set around the tranquil shores of Loch Angus in historic Glen Lonan. Whilst famous for its extensive collection of hybrid rhododendrons and azaleas, this glorious garden cleverly retains the natural atmosphere of the landscape. Visitors can enjoy an informal network of paths, lined with spring flowering shrubs and bulbs, through native woodland and by shoreland whilst surrounded by the magnificent views of Ben Cruachan and the mountains of Glen Etive. This unspoilt natural setting attracts a wide range of wildlife, and the eleven-acre loch is home to swans and ducks. On the north-west side of the garden overlooking the loch stands Betty's bell paying tribute to her 40 years of work creating this magical garden. The garden reaches its full glory between April and the end of June but is a place of special tranquillity and charm at all times of the year. Three marked, circular walks from the car park taking between 30 minutes and 1.5 hours. Not suitable for wheelchairs.

Directions: Off A85 Crianlarich/Oban road at Taynuilt, road marked Glen Lonan, three miles up a single track road, turn right at the sign opposite Barguillean Farm.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: SSAFA Forces Help 60%

King's Park Walled Garden

Kings Park, 325 Carmunnock Road, Glasgow G44 5HL
Friends of King's Park

Open daily, 9am - 4:45pm. Admission is free but donations to Scotland's Gardens Scheme are welcome. (2025)

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E:contactus@friendsofkingsparkglasgow.co.uk

W:friendsofkingsparkglasgow.co.uk

The C-listed walled garden within King's Park would have served as a kitchen garden for the original James Hamilton estate in the 18th century, with colourful beds and borders and fruit trees. In recent years, Friends of King's Park have adopted the garden from Glasgow City Council with the aim of reinstating it to its former glory. The garden is split into quarters, two of which the Friends have planted with trees, shrubs, perennials and spring bulbs between 2022 and 2023. The east-facing bed has been planted with weeping cherry trees, underplanted with a selection of bulbs and a variety of perennials. The north-facing bed has a row of beautiful cherry trees. The south-facing wall will showcase cordons of a range of fruiting trees, which the Friends extended over winter 2023. We aim to further enrich the experience of visiting this garden and as a charitable organisation, will continue to raise funds to fully restore the walled garden.
Champion Trees: Yew trees (in main King's Park)

Directions: Free on-street parking is available in all streets surrounding the park. King's Park is accessible by public transport: buses 5 and 31 for the Carmunnock Road entrances, 34 and 75 for the Menock Road entrance. King's Park train station is a two-minute walk from the Menock Road entrance.

Admission: by donation

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Ardmaddy Castle

by Oban PA34 4QY
Mr and Mrs Archie Struthers

Open daily, 9am - 6pm (2025)

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T:01852 300353 E:minette@ardmaddy.com

W:www.ardmaddy.com

The gardens lie in a truly spectacular setting in the centre of a horseshoe bay, sheltered by mixed mature wooded hills and the castle atop a volcanic mound. The 18th-century walled garden has been much restored and improved over the last 50 years, hence its well-earned reputation as a plantsman's garden for all seasons.

In addition to the magnificent rhododendron collection, it is now also home to many rare and unusual shrubs and plants. These all sit alongside productive fruit and vegetable beds, all given formal structure by dwarf box hedges . The walled garden is flanked by shrub lined avenues bordering the burn, leading to woodland walks and a water garden. Don't miss the 60 foot Hydrangea petiolaris on Lady Murray's Walk and the towering stand of gunnera next to the ponds. The latest additions in an always-evolving garden are new medicinal herb beds and the beginning s of a new arboretum in the old orchard area.

Directions: Take the A816 south of Oban for eight miles. Turn right onto the B844 to Seil Island/Easdale. Four miles on, turn left to Ardmaddy (signposted) and follow for a further two miles.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Ardkinglas Woodland Garden

Cairndow PA26 8BG
Ardkinglas Estate

Open daily, dawn - dusk (2025)

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T:01499 600261

W:www.ardkinglas.com

In a peaceful setting overlooking Loch Fyne, the garden contains one of the finest collections of rhododendrons and conifers in Britain. This includes the mightiest conifer in Europe - a silver fir - as well as many other Champion Trees. There is a gazebo with a unique scriptorium based around a collection of literary quotes. For younger visitors, the garden features a Fairy Trail, Gruffalo Trail and Snakey Slide. It is a VisitScotland 3-star garden.
Champion Trees: The mightiest conifer in Europe and others.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00022

Directions: Entrance through Cairndow village off the A83 Loch Lomond/Inveraray road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Highland Liliums

10 Loaneckheim, Kiltarlity IV4 7JQ
Laura Evans

Open daily, 9am - 5pm. Admission is free but donations to Scotland's Gardens Scheme are welcome. (2025)

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T:01463 741698 E:shop@highlandliliums.co.uk

W:www.highlandliliums.co.uk

Highland Liliums is a working retail nursery with spectacular views over the Beauly valley and Strathfarrar hills. A wide selection of home-grown plants are available including alpines, ferns, grasses, herbaceous, herbs, liliums, primulas and shrubs.

Directions: Signposted from Kiltarlity Village, which is just off the Beauly to Drumnadrochit road (A833), approximately 12 miles from Inverness.

Admission: by donation

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Raasay Walled Garden

Isle of Raasay IV40 8PB
Raasay Community

Open daily, 9am - 7pm (2025)

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T:07939 106426 E:raasaywalledgarden@gmail.com. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram

W:Raasay.com/the-walled-garden-raasay

Accessed from the road behind Raasay House, just a 10 minute walk from the Ferry Terminal, is the Category A listed community owned walled garden. Visited by Boswell and Johnson in 1773, the garden suffered neglect before coming into community ownership. Ongoing restoration began in 2013 and the 1.43 acre garden now supplies vegetables, fruit, salad, herbs and cut flowers to the community and visitors. Features an orchard, rose beds, polytunnels, a fruit cage, wildflowers for pollinators and insects, and plenty of seats. We have a composting toilet for visitors' use. June to August provide the most colourful time and our main produce harvests take place from May to September. We run events during the year - please check our Facebook page for details. The garden isn't always staffed, so please contact us for further details.

Directions: Take the Calmac Ferry to Raasay (20 minute journey) from Sconser, between Broadford and Portree on the Isle of Skye. The garden is an easy walk from the terminal and there is plenty to do and see on Raasay on foot, although cars can also cross.

Admission: by donation

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Achnacloich

Connel, Oban PA37 1PR
Mr T M Nelson

Open daily, 10am - 4pm (2025)

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T:01631 710223 or Gardener David Field 07929 336217 E:davefield6@hotmail.co.uk & cassandhu@gmail.com

The 20-acre woodland garden overlooking Loch Etive has been planted over the last century with a wide range of trees and shrubs from Asia, China, Japan, North America, Chile and New Zealand. Many have grown to considerable size. The light woodland canopy consists of native oaks and a number of magnificent 150-year-old Scots pines and European larch. Amongst these are open glades, carpeted with bluebells and numerous other bulbs. Two ponds and streams are planted with primulas, iris species, lysichitum, and astilbes. The woodland contains innumerable species of rhododendron and azalea, of which the triflorums and yunnanense are outstanding. Amongst these are species of acer, betula, camellia, cercidiphyllum, cornus, crinodendron, drimys, embothrium, enkianthus, eucryphia, hoheria, magnolia, malus, nothofagus, pieris, sorbus, stewartia, telopea and viburnum. Beside the house is a giant Douglas fir from Douglas' original introduction. One of the first Dawyck beeches stands beside the drive. Fine autumn colours.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00007

Directions: On the A85 two miles east of Connel. The car park is at the bottom of the drive.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support 60%

Cambo Gardens

Kingsbarns KY16 8QD
Trustees of Cambo Heritage Trust

Open all year round. Cafe, gift shop and plants for sale throughout the year. Check our website for events throughout the year. (2025)

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T:01333 451040 E:hello@cambogardens.org.uk

W:https://www.cambogardens.org.uk/

Best known for snowdrops (mail order February), but exciting throughout the year, this Victorian walled garden features constantly evolving, magnificent herbaceous borders featuring rare and unusual plants, many of which are propagated for sale at Cambo. The garden is renowned too for its tulips and a stunning rose collection. Outside the main garden an inspiring Winter Garden and North American Prairie continue to be developed. Woodland walks to the sea.
National Plant Collection: Galanthus
Champion Trees: Bundle Beech

Directions: A917 between Crail and St Andrews.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Ardtornish

by Lochaline, Morvern PA80 5UZ
Mrs John Raven

Open daily, 10am - 6pm (2025)

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W:www.ardtornish.co.uk

Ardtornish Estate spreads out around Loch Aline, a huge, wooded, U-shaped bay, a natural haven. Wonderful gardens of interesting mature conifers, rhododendrons, deciduous trees, shrubs and herbaceous plantings, set amid magnificent scenery. Much of the garden is covered by native birch, alongside extensive planting of exotic species, under mature groups of larch, firs and pine, whose strong form and colour complement the pink sandstone towers and gables of Ardtornish House.

Directions: Three miles from Lochaline along the A884.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

The Hidden Gardens

25a Albert Drive, Glasgow G41 2PE
The Hidden Gardens Trust

Please check the garden's website for up-to-date opening details and events. (2025)

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T:0141 433 2722 E:info@thehiddengardens.org.uk

W:thehiddengardens.org.uk

The multi-award winning gardens have been designed to reflect the legacy of this historic site as well as the ever-changing character and needs of the local area. The north to south borders echo the layout of the site when it was a nursery in the 1800s, supplying trees and shrubs to major gardens in Scotland, whilst the retained tramlines and the chimney reflect its industrial past. A number of artworks are integrated into the overall design, for example Alec Finlay’s Xylotheque, a library of wooden books detailing 17 native Scottish trees. The Hidden Gardens is an independent charity offering learning and social activities and opportunities for the whole community to participate in its development. It is a calm, green space where you can relax away from the busy city streets: take a meditative walk along the square route path around the formal lawn; brush past the aromatic herb border; admire the white wall border with its herbaceous plantings and espalier fruit trees; stroll through the wildlife area; connect with nature in the woodland glade; and enjoy the naturalistic planting of the grassy or wild flower meadows or buy some young plants propagated here. Volunteer-led guided tours are available to book during most of the year, for free.

Directions: Travel directions are available on the garden's website thehiddengardens.org.uk/explore/visit/

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

The Japanese Garden at Cowden

Dollar, Clackmannanshire FK14 7PL
Cowden SCIO

Mainly open throughout the year from 10:30am - 5pm but you should check the garden website for winter closures and changes to opening times. (2025)

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E:sales@cowdengarden.com

W:www.cowdengarden.com

Created in 1908, The Japanese Garden at Cowden is listed as an important example of its type in Western Europe. Nestled beneath the Ochil Hills the seven-acre garden wraps around a large pond. Enjoy the meandering walk by the water, taking in the changing scenes created by sculpted landforms, carefully placed stones, clipped shrubs and original stone lanterns. Picnic area, woodland, shop and cafe. Please check the garden's website for all admission information.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00402

Directions: The entrance to the garden is from the Upper Hillfoots Road, about half a mile west from the junction with the A91.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Mellerstain

Mellerstain House and Gardens, Gordon TD3 6LG
Gill Harrop, Administrator

Open daily, 11am - 5pm (2025)

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T:01573 410225 E:enquiries@mellerstain.com

W:www.mellerstain.com

Mellerstain will be hosting three special open days to celebrate the garden and grounds at their finest. In February carpets of snowdrops spread throughout the grounds, followed by the glorious colour of rhododendrons and azaleas at the end of May, and finishing with stunning autumn colours in late October. 100 acres of mature parkland, formal gardens and lakeside walks set off this Robert Adam masterpiece. The formal gardens to the south of the house were designed in 1910 by Sir Reginald Blomfield in an Italianate style sympathetic to the earlier 18th century layout. These beautiful terraces with herbaceous borders and yew trees lead to lower terraces via a cryptoporticus, and then a sweeping expanse of lawn descends to the lake. Among the sturdy oaks and majestic beeches in the north parkland, you’ll find an enchanting tiny thatched cottage discreetly tucked away with its own parterre garden. A map is available of the woodland and lakeside walks, picnic spots are available and the cafe is open during the summer season. Look out for the Highland cattle and Hebridean sheep too!

Directions: The house is signposted on the A6089 Kelso-Gordon road. The approach from the A68 Jedburgh-Edinburgh road is through Earlston on the A6105, then via the B6397 towards Smailholm.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Glenwhan Gardens & Arboretum

Dunragit, by Stranraer DG9 8PH
Tessa and Ian Knott Sinclair

Open daily, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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T:07787 990702

W:www.glenwhangardens.co.uk

Described as one of the most beautiful gardens in Scotland, Glenwhan Gardens is situated at 300 feet and overlooks Luce Bay and the Mull of Galloway, with clear views to the Isle of Man. Forty-five years ago there was wild moorland, but now, following considerable dedication and vision, you can see glorious collections of plants from around the world. There is colour in all seasons and the winding paths, well-placed seats and varied sculptures, set around small lochans, add to the tranquil atmosphere. There is a 17-acre moorland wildflower walk, the chance to see red squirrels and well-marked garden and tree trails. Glenwhan has now been added to the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes, a record of nationally important gardens and designed landscapes and a major resource for enhancing appreciation and understanding of these sites, as well as promoting education and stimulating further research. Dara Parsons, Head of Designations at HES, said: 'Glenwhan Gardens is an excellent addition to, the inventory.'

Designed Landscape: https://portal.historicenvironment.scot/decision/500003587

Directions: Seven miles east of Stranraer, one mile off the A75 at Dunragit (follow brown VisitScotland and yellow SGS arrows).

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Inverness Botanic Gardens

Bught Lane, Inverness IV3 5SS
Pamela Sutherland

3 January - 21 December, 9:30am - 4pm (2025)

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T:01463 701019 E:inverness.botanics@highlifehighland.com

W:highlifehighland.com/inverness-botanicgardens/

We are the most northerly botanic gardens in the UK and host a wide variety of plants, shrubs and trees with year-round interest. There is a large Tropical House and a Cactus House with plants from around the globe. In spring come to see our bulb displays, in summer our herbaceous borders and specimen trees, in autumn for late herbaceous and leaf colour and in winter for evergreens, specimen trees in flower and those with wonderful bark. The GROW Project is also housed within our gardens which is run by a special needs group, it has an allotment, herbaceous borders, wildflower areas, ponds, children's play areas and much, much more! There is a lovely cafe onsite serving soups, sandwiches and cakes alongside local artworks and plants. We are a charity and so the entry is free with donation boxes to be found inside the cafe.

Directions: From Inverness city centre follow signs to Drumnadrochit. Then follow the brown signs to the Leisure Centre (turn left at the Cemetery before the canal).

Admission: by donation

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Gordon Castle Walled Garden

Fochabers, Moray IV32 7PQ
Angus and Zara Gordon Lennox

Please check the garden's website for seasonal opening details (2025)

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T:01343 612317 E:info@gordoncastlescotland.com

W:www.gordoncastle.co.uk

At almost eight acres in size, Gordon Castle has one of the oldest and largest walled gardens in Britain. Lovingly restored to its former glory with a modern design by award-winning designer Arne Maynard, this beautiful garden is overflowing with vegetables, fruit, herbs, and cut flowers. The onsite cafe has a ‘Plant, Pick, Plate’ ethos using wonderful fresh produce grown in the garden. There is a children's natural play area and shop.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00198

Directions: The main entrance is at the western end of the village of Fochabers, just off the A96, nine miles east of Elgin and 12 miles west of Keith.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Abriachan Garden Nursery

Loch Ness Side IV3 8LA
Mr and Mrs Davidson

1 February - 30 November, 9am - 7pm (2025)

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T:01463 861232 E:info@lochnessgarden.com

W:www.lochnessgarden.com

This is an outstanding garden with over four acres of exciting plantings with winding paths through native woodlands. Seasonal highlights include snowdrops, hellebores, primulas, meconopsis, hardy geraniums and colour-themed summer beds. Views over Loch Ness.

Directions: On the A82 Inverness/Drumnadrochit road, about nine miles south of Inverness.

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Highland Hospice 60%

Logan Botanic Garden

Port Logan, by Stranraer DG9 9ND
A Regional Garden of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Open daily 1 March - 15 November, 10am - 5pm (4pm in November). Admission details can be found on the garden's website. (2025)

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T:01776 860231 E:logan@rbge.org.uk

W:www.rbge.org.uk/logan

Logan Botanic Garden lies at the south-western tip of Scotland, unrivalled as ‘Scotland’s Most Exotic Garden’. Warmed by the Gulf Stream, a remarkable collection of southern hemisphere plants flourish, making this a plantsman’s paradise. Logan enjoys an almost subtropical climate where the garden's avenues and borders feature a spectacular and colourful array of half-hardy perennials. The garden is warmed by the Gulf Stream which enables plants from Australia, New Zealand, South and Central America and Southern Africa to thrive. Voted ‘Best Garden in the UK’ 2021, Logan promises a delightful day out for all.
National Plant Collection: Gunnera, Leptospermum, Griselinia, Clianthus and Sutherlandia
Champion Trees: Polylepis and Eucalyptus

Directions: Ten miles south of Stranraer on the A716 then 2½ miles from Ardwell Village.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Board Of Trustees Of The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh 60%

Abbotsford

Melrose TD6 9BQ
The Abbotsford Trust

1 March - 31 December, March, November and December 10am - 4pm, 1 April - 31 October 10am - 5pm. (2025)

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T:01896 752043 E:enquiries@scottsabbotsford.co.uk

W:www.scottsabbotsford.com

The garden was designed by Sir Walter Scott with advice from artists, architects and friends. It is a rare surviving example of a Regency garden layout and completely different from the English landscape garden style of Capability Brown. Scott’s garden aims to provide a harmonious transition between the luxury and comfort of the interiors of the house with wonders of nature in the wider estate through a series of secluded, richly detailed and sheltered ‘rooms’. In its day it would have showcased the latest plants discovered from around the globe, both in its borders and ‘stove houses’. Regular tours are held exploring Scott’s vision for the garden and the hidden meanings of its design. Check the Abbotsford website for details.

Directions: Off the A6091 near Melrose. Buses X62 and 72 from Edinburgh and Peebles. Train from Waverley to Tweedbank. Minibus or one-mile walk from train station.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Kinlochlaich Walled Garden

Appin PA38 4BD
Miss F M M Hutchison

3 March - 31 October, 10am - 4pm (2025)

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T:07881 525754 E:fionakinlochlaich@gmail.com

W:www.kinlochlaichgardencentre.co.uk

Octagonal walled garden incorporating a large Nursery Garden Centre with a huge variety of plants growing and for sale. Bluebell woodland walk and spring garden. Many rhododendrons, azaleas, trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants, including many unusual ones such as embothrium, davidia, stewartia, magnolia, eucryphia and tropaeolum. A quarter of the interior of the walled garden is borders packed with many unusual and interesting plants, espaliered fruit trees, and with an ancient yew in the centre, and another quarter is vegetable growing.

Directions: On the A828 in Appin between Oban, 18 miles to the south, and Fort William, 27 miles to the north. The entrance is next to the police station. Infrequent bus Oban to Fort William - request stop.

Admission: by donation

Charities: The Appin Village Hall 30% & Down's Syndrome Scotland: West of Scotland Branch 30%

Braco Castle

Braco FK15 9LA
Mr and Mrs M van Ballegooijen

12 March - 31 October, 10am - 5pm (2025)

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T:01786 880437

A 19th-century landscaped garden with a plethora of wonderful and interesting trees, shrubs, bulbs and plants. An old garden for all seasons that has been extensively expanded over the last 35 years. The partly-walled garden is approached on a rhododendron and tree-lined path featuring an ornamental pond. Spectacular spring bulbs, exuberant shrub and herbaceous borders and many ornamental trees are all enhanced by the spectacular views across the park to the Ochils. From snowdrops through to vibrant autumn colour, this garden is a gem. Look out for the embothrium in June, hoheria in August, eucryphia in September and an interesting collection of rhododendrons and azaleas with long flowering season.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00067

Directions: Drive for 1½ miles from the gates at the north end of Braco Village, just west of the bridge on the A822. Parking at the castle is welcome.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: The Woodland Trust Scotland 60%

Knock Newhouse

Lochgair PA31 8RZ
Mrs Hew Service

20 March - 30 September, 10am - 4pm (2025)

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T:01546 886628 E:corranmorhouse@aol.com

Like all good gardens, it has evolved over time. The garden is centred on a 250-foot lochan, a small waterfall and lily pond. The first trees and rhododendrons were planted in the 1960s, with major additions in the 1990s. A variety of cut leaf and flowering trees were added after the storms of 2011/12. As a result, the garden now has a wide range of specimen trees, camellias, hoheria, eucryphia, stewartia to name a few in addition to the azaleas and rhododendrons. January flowering is followed by spring flowers and bluebells and then into the autumn by spectacular colours. I am delighted to welcome visitors at any time.

Directions: On the A83. The house is not visible from the road. From Lochgilphead, a ½ mile south of Lochgair Hotel and on the left-hand side of the road, and from Inveraray on the right-hand side of the road a ½ mile after the Lochgair Hotel; the drive opening is marked and enters the woods. Bus Route - Inveraray to Lochgilphead

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: The Lochgair Association (SCIO): Village Hall Fund 30% & Cancer Research UK 30%

Glenarn

Glenarn Road, Rhu, Helensburgh G84 8LL
Michael and Sue Thornley

21 March - 21 September, dawn - dusk (2025)

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T:01436 820493 E:masthome@btinternet.com

W:www.glenarn.com

Glenarn survives as a complete example of a ten-acre garden which spans from 1850 to the present day. There are winding paths through miniature glens under a canopy of oaks and limes, sunlit open spaces, a vegetable garden with beehives, and a rock garden full of surprise and season-long colour. The famous collections of rare and tender rhododendrons and magnolias give way in midsummer to roses rambling through the trees and climbing hydrangeas, followed by the starry white flowers of hoherias and eucryphias to the end of the season. There is a Silent Space at the top of the garden with views over the Gareloch.
Champion Trees: Notably Magnolia rostrata

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00193

Directions: On the A814, two miles north of Helensburgh, up Pier Road. Cars to be left at the gate unless passengers have limited mobility.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Amma : Birth Companions (SCIO) 50%

Inveraray Castle Gardens

Inveraray PA32 8XF
The Duke and Duchess of Argyll

27 March - 29 September 10am - 5pm & 2 October - 27 October 10am - 4pm (2025)

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T:01499 302203 E:manager@inveraray-castle.com

W:www.inveraray-castle.com

With Inveraray Castle as an imposing backdrop, the sixteen acre garden has formal, meadow, park and woodland areas and is one of the most important designed landscapes in Scotland. The formal gardens consist of vivid green manicured lawn; the Flag Borders, historically laid out in the shape of the St Andrew’s cross; a spectacular rose garden and herbaceous borders. A number of significant trees, including notable specimens of Magnolia acuminata and Oxydendrum arboreum, provide structure and form in this section of the garden. Colour is abundant from April until well into the autumn. The wildflower meadow is managed with native flora and fauna in mind and links the formal and informal parts of the garden. The carpet of fragrant bluebells is a feast for the senses throughout the spring, following straight on from thousands of narcissi. With views over Loch Fyne and the majesty of the West Highlands, the garden holds numerous rhododendrons, hydrangeas and other plants known to flourish in the Argyll climate.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00223

Directions: Inveraray is 60 miles north of Glasgow and 45 miles from Oban. Regular bus services from Glasgow, Oban and Campbeltown. SatNav PA32 8XF.

Admission: £10.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Blair Castle Gardens

Blair Atholl PH18 5TL
Blair Charitable Trust

28 March - 31 October, 9:30am - 5pm (2025)

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T:01796 481207 E:office@blair-castle.co.uk

W:www.blair-castle.co.uk

Blair Castle stands as the focal point in a designed landscape of some 2,500 acres within a Highland estate. Hercules Garden is a walled enclosure of about nine acres recently restored to its original 18th-century design with landscaped ponds, a Chinese bridge, contemporary plantings, and an orchard of more than 100 fruit trees. The glory of this garden in summer is the herbaceous border, which runs along the 275 yard south-facing wall. A delightful sculpture trail incorporates contemporary and 18th-century sculpture as well as eight new works, letter-carving on stone from the Memorial and Commemorative Arts charity’s 'Art and Memory Collection'. Diana’s Grove is a magnificent stand of tall trees including grand fir, Douglas fir, larch and wellingtonia running along the Banvie Burn, with the 12th-century ruins of St Bride’s Church on the far bank.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00059

Directions: Off A9, follow signs to Blair Castle, Blair Atholl.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Crinan Hotel Garden

Crinan PA31 8SR
Mrs N Ryan

29 March - 31 October, dawn - dusk (2025)

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T:01546 830261 E:macdonaldart.crinan@gmail.com

W:www.crinanhotel.com

A small, mature garden behind the Crinan Hotel which has been open with SGS for over 25 years. It is 100 years old and was originally the walled vegetable garden for the Hotel. In 1980 it was cleared and reinstated with azaleas, rhododendrons and herbaceous beds. Approached from a patio under ancient griselinia boughs, the garden catches the afternoon sun and is a peaceful escape!

Also enjoy the gallery on the rooftop of the hotel and a wonderful scone by baker Paul in the coffee shop by the canal basin.

Directions: Take the A83 to Lochgilphead, then the A816 to Oban, then the A841 Cairnbaan to Crinan. Daily bus.

Admission: by donation

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & Guide Dogs 30%

Norby

Burnside, Sandness, Shetland ZE2 9PL
Mrs Gundel Grolimund

1 April - 31 December, dawn - dusk (2025)

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T:01595 870246 E:gundel.g5@btinternet.com

A small but perfectly-formed garden and a prime example of what can be achieved in a very exposed situation. Blue painted wooden pallets provide internal wind breaks and form a background for shrubs, climbers and herbaceous plants, while willows provide a perfect wildlife habitat. There are treasured plants such as Chionochloa rubra, pieris, Chinese tree peonies, a selection of old-fashioned shrub roses, lilies, hellebores and grasses from New Zealand. There is also a lovely selection of interesting art and textiles in the house.

Directions: Head north on the A970 from Lerwick then west on the A971 at Tingwall. At Sandness, follow the road to Norby, turn right at the Methodist Church, Burnside is at the end of the road. Bus 10 Sandness - Walls.

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Survival International 60%

An Cala

Ellenabeich, Isle of Seil PA34 4RF
Mrs Sheila Downie

1 April - 31 October, 10am - 6pm (2025)

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W:www.gardens-of-argyll.co.uk/view-details.php?id=447

A wonderful example of a 1930s designed garden, An Cala sits snugly in its horseshoe shelter of surrounding cliffs. A spectacular and very pretty garden with streams, waterfall, ponds, many herbaceous plants as well as azaleas, rhododendrons and cherry trees in spring. Archive material of Thomas Mawson’s design was found recently and is available to visitors.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00013

Directions: Proceed south from Oban on Campbeltown Road for eight miles, turn right at the Easdale sign, a further eight miles on the B844; the garden is between the school and the village. Bus Oban - Easdale.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 30% & Cancer Research UK 30%

Dunvegan Castle and Gardens

Isle of Skye IV55 8WF
Hugh Macleod of Macleod

1 April - 15 October, 10am - 5:30pm (last entry 5pm) (2025)

3467

T:01470 521206 E:info@dunvegancastle.com

W:www.dunvegancastle.com

Any visit to the Isle of Skye is incomplete without enjoying the wealth of history and horticultural delights at award-winning 5* Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, now an RHS partner garden. The five acres of formal gardens began life in the 18th century. In stark contrast to the barren moorland and mountains which dominate Skye's landscape, the Castle's Water Garden, Round Garden, Walled Garden and woodland walks provide an oasis for an eclectic mix of flowers, exotic plants, shrubs and specimen trees, framed by shimmering pools fed from waterfalls. After visiting the Water Garden with its ornate bridges and islands replete with colourful plants along the riverbanks, wander through the elegant formal Round Garden. The Walled Garden, formerly the Castle's vegetable garden, now has a diverse range of plants and flowers completing the attractive features, including a water lily pond, garden museum, 17th century lectern sundial, glass house and the 'Dunvegan Pebble', a rotating 2.7 ton Carrara marble sculpture. The informal areas of the garden are kept wild to encourage wildlife, creating a more natural aesthetic framed by the coastal scenery. The present Chief, Hugh MacLeod, and his dedicated team of gardeners, continue to build on this unique legacy for future generations to enjoy.

Directions: One mile from Dunvegan village, 23 miles west of Portree. Follow the signs for Dunvegan Castle.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Castle Kennedy Gardens

Stranraer DG9 8SJ
The Earl and Countess of Stair

1 April - 31 October, 10am - 5pm (2025)

3c46e7

T:01581 400225

W:www.castlekennedygardens.com

Romantically situated, these famous 75 acres of landscaped gardens are located on an isthmus surrounded by two large natural lochs. At one end, the ruined Castle Kennedy overlooks a beautiful herbaceous walled garden with Lochinch Castle at the other end. With over 300 years of planting, there is an impressive collection of rare trees, rhododendrons, exotic shrubs and many spectacular Champion Trees. The stunning snowdrop walks, daffodils, spring flowers, rhododendron and magnolia displays and herbaceous borders make this a ‘must visit’ garden throughout the year.
Champion Trees: 95 in total; including 12 British, 30 Scottish, 44 for Dumfries and Galloway and 9 trees described as ‘otherwise remarkable’.

Directions: On the A75, five miles east of Stranraer. The nearest train station is in Stranraer. The garden is on a local bus route.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Tinnisburn Plants

Upper Millsteads, Canonbie DG14 0RY
Helen Knowles

1 April - 31 August (Friday, Saturday & Sunday), 10am - 4pm PLEASE NOTE the garden will not be open Friday 18 April (2025)

a7

T:07544 373815 E:helen@tinnisburn.co.uk

W:tinnisburn.co.uk

Developed over the last 36 years, this one-acre, plantsman's garden is home to an eclectic mix of truly hardy perennials, trees and shrubs. Planted for year-round colour and interest and to provide habitats for wildlife, there is something new to see each month. There is a woodland garden, rockery, bog garden, herbaceous borders and much more. Meconopsis grow well here and more are being planted out every year. In addition to the garden, there is a small orchard, wildlife ponds and mown paths through the wildflower meadows and, if you're lucky, you may spot red squirrels.
National Plant Collection: Scilla (Chionodoxa)

Directions: Take the B6357 north from Canonbie. At Harelaw turn left onto the B6318 and after 1 mile turn right onto our track. It is 1.5 miles long and is untarmacked but suitable for all vehicles. Just drive slowly and carefully.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Fauna & Flora International 30% & Macmillan Cancer Support 30%

Pitmuies Gardens

House of Pitmuies, Guthrie, by Forfar DD8 2SN
Jeanette and Ruaraidh Ogilvie

1 April - 30 September, 10am - 5pm (2025)

6d7

T:01241 828245 E:ogilvie@pitmuies.com

W:www.pitmuies.com

Two renowned, semi-formal walled gardens adjoin an 18th-century house and steading, sheltering long borders of herbaceous perennials, superb old-fashioned delphiniums and roses, together with pavings rich with violas and dianthus. An extensive and diverse collection of plants, interesting kitchen garden, spacious lawns, and river, lochside and woodland walks beneath fine trees. A wide variety of shrubs with good autumn colour and a picturesque turreted doocot and a ‘Gothick’ wash house. Myriad spring bulbs include carpets of crocus following massed snowdrops and daffodils.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00215

Directions: From Forfar take the A932 east for seven miles and gardens are signposted on the right. From Brechin take the A933 south to Friockheim and turn right onto the A932. The gardens are signposted on the left after 1½ miles.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Attadale

Strathcarron IV54 8YX
Joanna Macpherson

1 April - 31 October, 10am - 5pm (2025)

3c67k

T:01520 722217 E:info@attadalegardens.com

W:www.attadalegardens.com

The Gulf Stream, surrounding hills and rocky cliffs create a microclimate for 20 acres of outstanding water gardens, old rhododendrons, unusual trees and a fern collection in a geodesic dome. There is also a sunken fern garden developed on the site of an early 19th-century drain, a waterfall into a pool with dwarf rhododendrons, sunken garden, peace garden and kitchen garden. Other features include a conservatory, Japanese garden, sculpture collection and giant sundial.

Directions: On the A890 between Strathcarron and South Strome.

Admission: £10.00, children free

Charities: Highland Hospice 60%

Monteviot

Jedburgh TD8 6UQ
The Marchioness of Lothian

1 April - 31 October, 12pm - 5pm (2025)

5d

T:01835 830380

W:www.monteviot.com

A series of differing gardens displaying rose and herbaceous plants surrounded by foliage plants. A water feature linked by bridges and falls passes through the Dene Garden and Water Garden. The Garden of Persistent Imagination is planted with rose and clematis beside paths which meander across a bridge and under the Moonstone Gate, past the Dali-style clock.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00288

Directions: Turn off the A68, three miles north of Jedburgh on to the B6400. After one mile turn right.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Craigieburn House

by Moffat DG10 9LF
Janet and Peter McGowan

20 April - 31 October, 10:30am - 5pm (2025)

c7

T:07557 928648 E:bideshi2024@outlook.com

A beautiful and varied six-acre, plant-lovers' garden in a natural location in scenic Moffat Dale. Meconopsis, trilliums, rhododendrons, magnolias, arisaemas, bamboos, hoherias and many more types of plants flourish in the shelter of mature woodland. A Himalayan glen has been recreated with plants from the region where the Craigie Burn tumbles down a gorge with a series of waterfalls. Downstream is a fern garden with over 70 varieties. Candelabra primulas, rodgersias, cardiocrinum, orchids and other rare plants thrive in the bog garden and woodland glades. Double herbaceous borders come into their own later in the summer and keep the display going throughout the season. Other garden areas include a rose garden, formal pond and autumn garden. A nursery sells hardy plants propagated on site, many of them rare or unusual. The garden has been created over the past 30 years by Janet and Peter, with Dawa Sherpa, building on its old setting, and continues to evolve. Its links to Robert Burns – including his song 'Craigieburn Wood' – provide another layer of history.

Directions: Three miles from the A74(M) (junction 15), two miles east of Moffat on the A708 Selkirk Road. Coming from Moffat, there are traffic lights straight ahead at the end of the bend. You can't miss the lodge and prayer flags.

Admission: by donation

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Bughtrig

near Leitholm, Coldstream TD12 4JP
Mr and Mrs William Ramsay

1 May - 30 September, 9am - 4:30pm (2025)

67

E:ramsay@bughtrig.co.uk

A traditional, hedged, Scottish family garden with an interesting combination of sculpture, herbaceous plants, shrubs, annuals and fruit. It is surrounded by fine specimen trees, which provide remarkable shelter. In the grounds of Bughtrig Gardens is the recently opened Admiral Ramsay Museum, which has been created in memory of all who served at D-Day, Dunkirk and during World War II.

Directions: ¼ mile east of Leitholm on the B6461.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Glenkyllachy

Tomatin IV13 7YA
Mr and Mrs Philip Mackenzie

1 May - 31 October (Monday & Tuesday), 10am - 5pm (2025)

7

E:emmaglenkyllachy@gmail.com

In a magnificent Highland glen, 1200 feet above sea level, Glenkyllachy is a beautiful garden of shrubs, herbaceous plants, rhododendrons, trees, and spectacular views down the Findhorn River. There are some rare specimens and a recently planted arboretum. Rhododendrons and bulbs flower in May/June, herbaceous plants bloom through July/August with glorious autumn colours in September and October. There is a very productive vegetable garden, polytunnel, fruit cage and greenhouse as well as original sculptures and a Highgrove-inspired wall which provide year round interest. Featured on TV Beechgrove, in The English Garden Magazine and recently in Scottish Field (November 2023). The garden is constantly evolving with new areas being developed and planting schemes changed.

Directions: Turn off the A9 at Tomatin and take the Coignafearn/Garbole single-track road down the north-side of the River Findhorn, there is a cattle grid and gate on the right 500 yards AFTER the humpback bridge and the sign to Farr.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie 60%

Leathad Ard

Upper Carloway, Isle of Lewis HS2 9AQ
Rowena and Stuart Oakley

1 May - 30 September (not Sunday), 10am - 6pm (2025)

c47

T:01851 643204 E:leathad.ard@gmail.com

W:www.leathadard.org.uk

A one-acre sloping garden with stunning views over East Loch Roag. It has evolved along with the shelter hedges that divide the garden into a number of areas giving a new view at every corner. With shelter and raised beds, the different conditions created permit a wide variety of plants to be grown. Features include herbaceous borders, cutting borders, bog gardens, grass garden, exposed beds, patios, a pond and vegetables and fruit grown both in the open ground and the Keder greenhouse. Some of the vegetables are grown to show standards.

Directions: On the A858 Shawbost-Carloway take the first right after the Carloway football pitch, and it is the first house on the right. By bus take the Westside circular bus, exit Stornoway and head for Carloway football pitch.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: British Red Cross 60%

Floors Castle

Kelso TD5 7SF
The Duke of Roxburghe

1 May - 30 September, 10am - 5pm, admission details can be found on the garden's website. The Walled Garden, Terrace Cafe and Apple Shed are also open all year round and access to those during the winter months is via the B6397 only, NOT via the main entrance to the Castle on Roxburgh Street. (2025)

6d7

T:01573 223333

W:www.floorscastle.com

The gardens are situated within the grounds of Floors Castle. Meander through to the formal Millennium Parterre and soak up the spectacular visions of colour, texture and the most delicious scents around the four herbaceous borders in one of the finest Victorian kitchen gardens in Scotland. Features include perennial gardens, fruit cage, Tapestry Garden and glasshouse access as well as the Terrace Cafe, Apple Shed Gift Shop and Deli and children’s play area. Explore the grounds, which offer woodland and riverside walks from May to the end of September.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00181

Directions: Floors Castle can be reached by following the A6089 from Edinburgh; the B6397 from Earlston; or the A698 from Coldstream. Go through Kelso, up Roxburgh Street to the Golden Gates.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

The Castle and Gardens of Mey

Mey KW14 8XH
The Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust

1 May - 30 May, 10:30am - 4pm (2025)

36k

T:01847 851473 E:enquiries@castleofmey.org.uk

W:www.castleofmey.org.uk

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the late Queen Mother, bought what was then Barrogill Castle in 1952 before renovating and restoring the z-plan castle and creating the beautiful gardens you see today, renaming it The Castle and Gardens of Mey. This romantic and unique garden is a reminder that, however daunting the weather, it is often possible with a little vision and energy to create and maintain a garden in the most unlikely of locations. The castle now includes an animal centre, gift shop and tearoom serving delicious locally sourced food and drinks, often using produce from the castle’s very own gardens.

Directions: On the A836 between Thurso and John O’Groats.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Balmeanach House

Balmeanach, nr Struan, Isle of Skye IV56 8FH
Mrs Arlene Macphie

1 May - 4 October, 11am - 4pm (2025)

2c7

T:01470 572320 E:info@skye-holiday.com

W:www.skye-holiday.com

Very much a plantsman's garden, begun in the early 1990s after a third-of-an-acre of croft land was fenced. A shelter belt now permits a plethora of diverse plants in exuberant herbaceous borders, which give nectar and pollen to keep the buzzing and fluttering going until autumn, plus rockeries and raised beds. Native trees rub shoulders with more exotic ornamental varieties, providing a canopy for shade-loving plants and nesting sites for the many birds who make the garden their home. A small pond in a sunken garden; a larger pond divided in two by a path over a culvert and a bog garden, give scope for marginal and moisture-loving plants. Meandering pathways lead through a small bluebell wood, an arbour garden, shrubbery and small birch wood, full of azaleas and rhododendrons. Plenty of seating throughout provides an invitation to sit, relax and enjoy the garden and stunning scenery beyond.

Directions: A87 to Sligachan, turn left and Balmeanach is five miles north of Struan and five miles south of Dunvegan.

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Scottish SPCA 30% & Redwings 30%

Dunninald Castle

Montrose DD10 9TD
The Stansfeld family

1 May - 31 August (Monday, Tuesday & Sunday), 1pm - 5pm (2025)

6d7

T:01674 672031 E:estateoffice@dunninald.com

W:www.dunninald.com

We welcome our visitors to explore our 100 acres of woods, wild garden, policies and a walled garden. From January to May, the main interest is the wild garden and policies where snowdrops in January are followed by daffodils and finally bluebells in May. In June, the emphasis turns to the walled garden, rich in interest and colour throughout the summer. Situated at the bottom of the beech avenue, the walled garden is planted with rose borders, traditional mixed borders, vegetables, herbs, soft fruits and fruit trees and there is a greenhouse.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00159

Directions: Three miles south of Montrose, ten miles north of Arbroath, signposted from the A92.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Gorthleck House Garden

Stratherrick IV2 6UJ
Steve and Katie Smith

24 May - 1 June, 10am - 6pm (2025)

T:07710 325903 E:gorthleckgarden@gmail.com

Gorthleck is an unusual 20-acre woodland garden built in an unlikely place, on and around an exposed rocky ridge which offers long views of the surrounding countryside in the ‘borrowed landscape’ tradition of Japanese gardens. The layout of the garden works with the natural features of the landscape with numerous paths, hedges and shelter belts creating clearly defined areas where a large collection of trees and shrubs are thriving. The garden includes over 400 different varieties of rhododendrons, half of which are species, and a large variety of bamboos. It is a large garden so allow sufficient time to see it properly.

Directions: From the A9, take the B851 towards Fort Augustus to join the B862. Go through the village of Errogie where there is a sharp left-hand bend on the road. After approximately one mile, there is a small church on the left. The Gorthleck drive is directly opposite the church and the house can be seen on the hill to the left as you follow the drive to the left of the new house. Visitors can park on the verges at the top of the drive.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Maggie's 60%

Nonavaar

Levenwick, Shetland ZE2 9HX
James B Thomason

1 June - 30 September, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

4

T:01950 422447

This is a delightful country garden, sloping within drystone walls and overlooking magnificent coastal views. It contains ponds, terraces, trees, bushes, varied perennials, annuals, vegetable garden and greenhouse.

Directions: Head south from Lerwick. Turn left at the Levenwick sign soon after the Bigton turn-off. Follow the road to the third house on the left after the Midway stores. Park where there is a Garden Open sign. Bus 6 from Lerwick - Sumburgh.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Cancer Research UK 60%

Dougarie

Isle of Arran KA27 8EB
Mrs S C Gibbs

By arrangement (2025)

7

E:laviniawgibbs@gmail.com

Most interesting terraced garden in a castellated folly built in 1905 to celebrate the marriage of the 12th Duke of Hamilton’s only child to the Duke of Montrose. Good selection of tender and rare shrubs and herbaceous border. Small woodland area with trees including azara, abutilon, eucryphia, hoheria and nothofagus.

Directions: Five miles from Blackwaterfoot. Regular ferry sailing from Ardrossan and Claonaig (Argyll). Information from Caledonian MacBrayne, Gourock, T: 01475 650100. Parking is free.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Pirnmill Village Association 60%

Kilchoan Gardens

Kilmelford PA34 4XD
Kilchoan Estate/ Luke Senior - Head Gardener

By arrangement (2025)

679

T:07425 054 743 or 01852 200 500 E:luke@kilchoanestate.co.uk

An eclectic private garden, open on specific dates and year round by appointment.

Since 2016, when Kilchoan Estate was taken into new ownership, the grounds have been developed and expanded; areas that had fallen into ruin and garden spaces reclaimed by nature have been uncovered; surviving plantings and mature trees have been enhanced; the footprint of further expansive garden and policies laid out.

A cosmopolitan collection of plants and artwork are displayed throughout the grounds, featuring a Himalayan garden, walled garden, arboretum with International Conifer Conservation Program collection, formal planting within native woodlands. Planting has been designed with conservation, diversity and beauty in mind, providing year-round interest. There is plenty to see and many places to sit, rest and reflect.

The chapel will be open. Teas available on SGS specific dates.

Directions: 4.5 miles along the road from the A816 turn off south of Kilmelford signed Degnish. Turn left after 1.5 miles at the bridge and Melfort Holiday Village. Follow this for 3 miles and look out for signage.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: The Kilchoan Melfort Trust 30% & Netherlorn (Church of Scotland): Kilmelford Church New Annexe 30%

Laundry Cottage

Culdrain, Gartly, Huntly AB54 4PY
Judith McPhun

By arrangement between Open by arrangement 1 January - 31 December, admission £5.00, children free. Snowdrops during February and March. Groups of up to 12 welcome. (2025)

b046

T:01466 720768 E:judithmcphun@icloud.com

An informal, cottage-style garden of about one-and-a-half acres by the River Bogie. Two contrasting steep slopes make up the wilder parts. The more intensively-gardened area around the cottage includes a wide variety of herbaceous plants, shrubs and trees, an orchard area and fruit and vegetable plots, making a garden of year-round interest.

Directions: Four miles south of Huntly on the A97.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Amnesty International UK Section Charitable Trust 60%

Craichlaw

Kirkcowan, Newton Stewart DG8 0DQ
Mr and Mrs Andrew Gladstone

By arrangement (2025)

b46

T:01671 830208 E:craichlaw@aol.com

Formal garden with herbaceous borders around the house. Set in extensive grounds with lawns, lochs and woodland. A path around the main loch leads to a water garden returning past a recently planted arboretum in the old walled garden. The best times to visit the garden are early February for snowdrops, May to mid-June for the water garden and rhododendrons, and mid-June to August for herbaceous borders.

Directions: Take the B733 for Kirkcowan, off the A75 at the Halfway House eight miles west of Newton Stewart and Craichlaw House is the first turning on the right.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Barholm Castle

Gatehouse of Fleet DG7 2EZ
Drs John and Janet Brennan

By arrangement (2025)

b467

T:01557 840327 E:barholmcastle@gmail.com

Barholm Castle, a 16th-century tower, was restored from a ruin in 2005. The gardens surrounding the tower have been mostly developed from scratch and are now mature. There is a recently-extended walled garden, with a gate designed by the artist blacksmith Adam Booth; a courtyard garden; a wooded ravine with huge hybrid rhododendrons from Benmore; a pond and a large fernery with over 100 varieties of fern, including very large tree ferns; a large Victorian-style greenhouse filled with succulents and tender perennials; and a large open garden with island beds of shrubs and perennials and a pond. Directly around the castle are rockeries and shrub borders. Views over Wigtown Bay are magnificent. The garden is planted for year-round colour, from February, when the castle ravine is a river of snowdrops, to October, when autumn colour is splendid.

Directions: Off the A75 at the Cairn Holy turn off, fork right three times and drive up a steep narrow road for half-a-mile.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Home-Start Wigtownshire 60%

Kevock Garden

16 Kevock Road, Lasswade EH18 1HT
David and Stella Rankin

By arrangement between 1 January - 29 December (2025)

4

E:stella@kevockgarden.co.uk

W:www.kevockgarden.co.uk

This wonderful hillside garden has magnificent views over the North Esk Valley. Its steep slope creates a range of different habitats with a wide diversity of plants, ranging from those that love hot, sunny conditions to those that prefer the cool, damp places near the pond and woodland glades. Mature specimen trees, rhododendrons, azaleas and unusual shrubs are underplanted with many rare woodland plants. Lawns have been relaid, surrounding borders have been planted, and there is a new rock garden. Kevock Garden has featured in many magazine articles and gardening programmes.

Directions: Kevock Road lies to the south of the A678 Loanhead/Lasswade Road. Five minutes from the city bypass Lasswade Junction and on the 31 Lothian Bus route to Polton/Bonnyrigg Road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Fischy Music 60%

The Limes

Kirkcudbright DG6 4XD
David and Carolyn McHale

By arrangement (2025)

6

E:carolyn.mchale@btinternet.com

This one-and-a-quarter acre plantswoman’s garden has a variety of different plant habitats: woodland, dry sunny gravel beds, rock garden, crevice garden and mixed perennial and shrub borders. There is also a large productive vegetable garden. The McHales like to grow most of their plants from seed obtained through various international seed exchanges. You can expect to see a large number of unusual and exciting plants. The garden is full of colour with an abundance of spring flowers in March, and in late May and early June the meconopsis should be at their best. The gravel garden comes into its own in July and continues through until winter. Hardy cyclamen are a big favourite and one species or another is in flower in almost every month of the year. Winter is a good time to admire their varied leaf forms.

Directions: In Kirkcudbright go straight along St Mary Street towards Dundrennan. The Limes is on the right, about half a mile from the town centre crossroads, on the edge of the town.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Friends Of Kirkcudbright Swimming Pool 60%

Charleston Forest Garden

43 Gourdie Terrace, Dundee DD2 4QT
L Wakefield

By arrangement (2025)

47

E:charlestonforestgarden@gmail.com

A young forest garden in Dundee, practising permaculture principles. Perennial vegetables are scattered throughout the garden, along with medicinal herbs, fruit trees, edible hedges and ornamental edible plants. A small flock of chickens contribute to a composting system and there is also a 'chop and drop' approach being used. This garden is home to some Scottish heirloom vegetable varieties, with the intention to save seeds to share. There is a small patch of alpines and a number of roses throughout, along with some purely ornamental herbaceous perennials, mostly grown with pollinators and wildlife in mind.

Directions: In the centre of Charleston, Dundee, with some parking on Gourdie Terrace and Balgarthno Road. The number 28 bus stops around the corner at the community centre.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Dementia UK 60%

Stockarton

Kirkcudbright DG6 4XS
Lt Col and Mrs Richard Cliff

By arrangement (2025)

67

T:01557 330430

This garden was started in 1995 by Carola Cliff, a keen and knowledgeable plantswoman, and contains a collection of unusual shrubs and small trees, which are growing well. Her aim has been to create different informal gardens around a Galloway farm house, leading down to a lochan. Above the lochan there is a sweet cottage, used for holiday retreats, with its own interesting garden. In 1996 a three-acre arboretum was planted as a shelter belt and it now contains some rare oak trees.

Directions: On the B727 Kirkcudbright to Gelston Road. Kirkcudbright three miles, Castle Douglas seven miles.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Loch Arthur 60%

Ruthven House

near Coldstream TD12 4JU
Keith and Karen Fountain

By arrangement between 1 January - 12 September (2025)

067

T:01890 840680 E:ruthvenhouse@btconnect.com

The three acres of Ruthven’s garden have lovely views towards the Cheviots. The garden’s central feature is two ponds joined by a winding stream. The garden is composed of various differing areas - herbaceous borders, woodland areas, a gravel garden, a knot garden, rockeries, an orchard laid to meadow, a kitchen garden, a highland garden, a nuttery, a small lavender field, a shade bed to the back of the house and, adjacent to the house, a formal rose garden. A small fold of Highland cattle in the adjacent field complete the scene. The garden is constantly evolving but this year we will not be having an open garden day to allow for a sustained period of development and renewal. Visitors by arrangement, as ever, will be very welcome.

Directions: Four miles north of Coldstream, and one mile south of Swinton Mill, on the old Duns road.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Scottish Action for Mental Health 60%

Mouse Cottage

Strathtay, Pitlochry PH9 0PG
Penny Kennedy

By arrangement between 1 January - 29 November (2025)

4k

T:07799 678067 E:mymousecottage@outlook.com

W:www.mymousecottage.co.uk

Mouse Cottage sits on a south-facing hill overlooking Strathtay. Small but packed with interesting features, it is a semi-wild haven of secret places where self-seeders mix with annuals and more formal planting. The owner is an artist who adores her garden space and collects quirky planting containers such as dustbins and dolly tubs. Her Pear Parasol and Holly Brolly are amongst her favourite features. Gravel paths wind through shady places full of joyous surprises such as Crambe cordifolia. Self catering and B & B accommodation is available at: www.mymousecottage.co.uk

Directions: From the A9 take the exit at Ballinluig signposted Aberfeldy. Go through Logierait, after about four miles turn right at T junction. At Grandtully turn right, over the bridge, up the hill to Strathtay Post Office. Turn right passing the golf course up to the red telephone box. Mouse Cottage is next opening on the left, signposted. Please beware of flying golf balls! NB: No parking at Mouse Cottage. On street parking possible at Strathtay. Bus 23 (Aberfeldy to Perth) stops at Grandtully Bridge.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Dawson's Garden

The Old Post Office, Kilmany KY15 4PT
Liz Murray

By arrangement between 6 January - 21 December (2025)

45e

T:07531 571045 E:kilmanyartist@gmail.com

A small cottage garden, full of surprises. Developed from a bare rectangle of grass by the late artist Dawson Murray, it was designed to please the senses all year round with colour, form and scent. Stone paths edged with box meander out of sight past 13 apple trees and a plum tree; two varieties of fig; both a red and a green grape vine and roses chosen for scent. There are plenty of areas to sit and relax: by the pond, in a small grassy area through a rose and clematis arch, outside the studio facing the kitchen garden or up on the patio. All are accessible by wheelchair.
Champion Trees: Red Hazel

Directions: The Old Post Office is in the centre of the small hamlet of Kilmany, just off the A92, eight miles from Dundee or 1½ miles after Rathillet coming from the opposite direction. It can also be reached from Cupar via Foodieash.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Overcoming MS 60%

Harthill

Reediehill Farm, Auchtermuchty KY14 7HS
Nichola and John Fletcher

By arrangement between 6 January - 31 October (2025)

2c67

T:01337 828369 E:info@nicholafletcher.com

W:www.nicholafletcher.com

Harthill enjoys a tranquil setting in the hills just above Auchtermuchty with beautiful views and, if you are lucky, sightings of the stunning herd of white deer who also live there. The garden, of approximately one acre, offers a large varied flower garden with vegetable, fruit and nursery areas; two separate wild gardens planted with specimen trees, a lochan and a small woodland. In late May to early June our meconopsis and primula beds, with woodland plants, are at their best. Summer offers herbaceous interest including a pergola dripping with roses and a large mound with grasses, thalictrum and many large plants. Autumn colours are in the trees and shrubs, with grasses and cyclamen through to early winter.

Directions: Find 'Reediehill Deer Farm' on Google maps. Go 50 metres up the concrete drive then turn left at Harthill sign. Continue over the cattle grid up the drive to reach Harthilll house. Directions can be emailed.

Admission: by donation

Charities: TST: The Tim Stead Trust 60%

The Pond Garden

The Pond, Milnathort KY13 0SD
Fay Young and Ray Perman

By arrangement between 1 February - 31 December (2025)

67

T:07767 407396 E:fay@fayyoung.org

W:fayyoung.org/category/pond-cottage/

A wild woodland and wetland garden adapting to climate change. We learn from resilient plants and wildlife. There are flowers, fruits, seeds, and nuts to support birds, bats, bees, butterflies, red squirrels and tiny unknowns! Woodland paths lead through snowdrops, daffodils, bluebells, foxgloves, and ferns. Mature beeches and oaks mark boundaries of former Victorian estate. Mosses and mushrooms grow among log piles, stone shapes, and a stumpery. Since mid 1990s we have rebuilt and retrofitted the derelict farm cottage with external insulation and renewable energy. Now we plan Himalayan and native Scottish plantings overlooking the streams.

Directions: From Milnathort village. At the mini roundabout in the centre of the village take the north exit (signed for Path of Condie) up Wester Loan, then North Street. At the top of the hill, past the church on your left, you will cross the motorway again. Carry straight on for 1/2 mile, the gate to Pond Cottage is on the right after a field opening.

Admission: £5.50, children free

Charities: CHAS: Children's Hospices Across Scotland 60%

Madeira

Grangemuir, Pittenweem KY10 2RB
Tara Macdonald

By arrangement between 1 February - 30 September (Tuesday & Thursday). (2025)

b47k

T:07867 798746 E:tara@madeirainfife.com

W:www.madeirainfife.com

Madeira is a wonderful, ten-acre eco garden with a Victorian walled garden at its centre. We have an orchard and vegetable garden, pretty paths through woodland and plenty of bluebells and snowdrops. We don’t use chemicals and fully support wildlife and the habitat they live in; the bee garden and our wilding areas are just two examples. The garden is a work in progress and we are continually creating spaces and fun things for kids to enjoy e.g. our dragon's den, Viking shelter, rope swings and more. We grow our own vegetables and love turning our fruit into juices, jellies, jams and ice-cream. We’d be delighted to show you round or let you wander and enjoy.

Directions: Take the bus to Pittenween and walk up Charles Street, past the recycling centre and we are 400 metres up on the left.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Delvine

Murthly PH1 4LD
Mr David Gemmell

By arrangement between 1 February - 1 December (2025)

7

T:07748 207647 E:gemmell.david@googlemail.com

The arboretum at Delvine covers more than 10 acres. The arboretum is situated on a flood plain, flanked by oxbow lakes on each side. This is the place to visit for those who seek a remote and peaceful setting. As one proceeds in a westerly direction, one enters an area of great drifts of chimonobambusa and miscanthus grasses with water and wildlife in abundance. The walking is easy, but not suitable for wheelchair users. This garden will appeal to those seeking the unusual.

Directions: On the A984, seven miles east of Dunkeld, four miles south-west of Blairgowrie. Turn through gateway and follow drive to wooden gates with Arboretum sign.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Army Benevolent Fund 60%

Kings Grange House

Castle Douglas DG7 3EU
Christine and Peter Hickman

By arrangement between 1 February - 31 August (2025)

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T:07787 535889

An extensive garden surrounded by mature trees and shrubberies, with views to the south west over the surrounding countryside. Originally Victorian, the garden is being restored by the present owners with a colourful variety of herbaceous mixed borders, beds and rockeries. There are snowdrops in February and banks of daffodils and a carpet of white narcissus in the lawns and around the pergola in springtime.

Directions: Take the B794 north off the A75, two miles east of Castle Douglas. Kings Grange House is approximately one mile on the left.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie 30% & RNLI 30%

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn

By arrangement between 12 February - 16 July (2025)

7

T:01721 740220 E:rpthorburn@icloud.com

Kirkton Manor House has a delightful, three-acre, informal country garden set in the beautiful Manor Valley. It enjoys spectacular open views and calling curlews from its riverside position. Bluebells flank the impressive entrance leading to a new shrub border. Stone steps continue through to terraced slopes filled with bulbs, roses and hellebores providing height, interest and fragrance. Grass paths meander along the burn where snowdrops, blue and white camassia, meconopsis, and ligularia thrive in this sunny meadow environment. Later, in June, sisyrinchiums, irises, orchids and many flowering shrubs and roses are abundant. The natural woodland includes many interesting trees.

Directions: Turn off the A72 west of Neidpath Castle, signposted to Kirkton Manor. After crossing the River Tweed, enter a garden gate which is a mile downhill, opposite a Beware Horses sign.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Chaplains' Court

20 The Chanonry, Old Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 1RQ
Irene Wischik

By arrangement between 1 March - 30 September (2025)

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T:01224 491675 E:irene@wischik.com

This historic walled garden has a long, well-stocked herbaceous border offering a succession of vivid colour from early spring to winter. It is divided by an ornamental pergola, a perfect place to sit and enjoy the garden. Large trees of ash, beech, horse chestnut, oak and sycamore give this garden a mature feel. A specimen Camperdown elm sits in the centre of the lawn, which in spring is covered in a carpet of crocuses, snowdrops and Scilla. Vegetables and herbs produce plentiful crops, together with newly-planted espalier and fan-trained apple and pear trees.

Directions: Bus 1 or 2 from Aberdeen city centre to St Machar Drive, and head towards St Machar Cathedral. Or drive down St Machar Drive, turn into The Chanonry and drive down until the junction with Don Street.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: SSAFA Forces Help 60%

Luckie Harg's

Anwoth, Gatehouse of Fleet, Castle Douglas DG7 2EF
Drs Carole and Ian Bainbridge

By arrangement between 1 March - 30 September (2025)

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T:01557 814141 E:luckiehargs@btinternet.com

A new and developing garden on the outskirts of Gatehouse of Fleet. A rock and spring herbaceous garden of around an acre, with a wide range of alpines, Himalayan and New Zealand plants, shrubs and small trees. There is a rock garden, modern crevice gardens, troughs, a large alpine house and bulb frame. New boulder, scree and stumpery beds, a pond and a woodland area are being developed. Small productive vegetable and fruit garden, plus a bluebell bank in May.

Directions: From Gatehouse High Street, turn north onto Station Road, immediately west at the Fleet Bridge by The Ship Inn. After almost one mile turn left signed to Anwoth Old Church. Luckie Harg’s is the first on the right after 400 yards. The nearest bus stop is on Gatehouse High Street, walk about 15 minutes to Luckie Harg’s.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Scottish Rock Garden Club 60%

3 Millhall

Shore Road, Kirkcudbright DG6 4TQ
Mr Alan Shamash

By arrangement between 1 March - 31 October. PLEASE NOTE: the bridge across the River Dee at Kirkcudbright is currently closed so the B727 is accessed from the A75 via the A755. (2025)

7

E:ashamash3@aol.com

Impressive five-acre garden with a large collection of mature shrubs, including over 200 rhododendron species, many camellias, magnolias including campbellii, embothriums, telopeas, perennials, over 200 hydrangeas and many other rare Southern Hemisphere plants. The garden has several interesting paths and is on a hillside running along the rocky shore of the Dee Estuary in Kirkcudbright Bay.

Directions: On the B727 between Kirkcudbright and Borgue on the west shore of the Dee Estuary. Parking at Dhoon Beach public car park, about three miles south of Kirkcudbright. There is a five-minute walk to the house. Please note there will be no vehicular access to 3 Millhall and all visitors should park at Dhoon Beach and walk up to the property.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer's Research UK 60%

Tal-y-Fan

Laurieston Road, Gatehouse of Fleet, Kirkcudbrightshire DG7 2BE
Janet & Sarah Wood

By arrangement between 1 March - 30 September (2025)

T:01557 815287 E:woodhill2uk@yahoo.co.uk

An over mature one acre plot is being developed into a many faceted garden with a varied mix of interesting plants. The Secret Path leads to Acer Valley and the Won-Kei Parterre, overlooked by the Loch Corbie Monster. A narrow log-lined way leads to West Wood, from where you follow the Burnside Path by the Flame Tree Forest and through the bamboo arch to Dry Wood to find Wood's Henge. Then up through Bluebell Wood to the top of The Rock, where Big Red, the giant squirrel resides, with views across the Fleet Valley. Back down and cross the lawns below the pond before heading up the granite path to the greenhouse, polytunnel, compost bins and the car park, with its collection of pots and troughs. Visit the front lawn and its well-stocked beds on your way out. Light refreshments may be available by arrangement.

Directions: Take the Laurieston Road north from Gatehouse of Fleet. After one mile fork right and then right at postcode sign. Turn left at top of slope. Tal-y-Fan (red roof) is at the very end.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Kilbryde Castle

Dunblane FK15 9NF
Sir James and Lady Campbell

By arrangement between 16 March - 30 September (2025)

67

T:01786 824897 E:carolaandjames@googlemail.com

W:www.kilbrydecastle.com

Kilbryde Castle gardens cover some 12 acres and are situated above the Ardoch Burn and below the castle. The gardens are split into three parts: informal, woodland and wild. Natural planting (azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias and magnolias) is found in the woodland garden. There are glorious snowdrops, spring bulbs, and autumn colour provided by clematis and acers.

Directions: Three miles from Dunblane and Doune, off the A820 between Dunblane and Doune. On Scotland’s Gardens Scheme open days the garden is signposted from the A820.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Leighton Library Trust 60%

Willowhill

Forgan, Newport-on-Tay DD6 8RA
Eric Wright and Sally Lorimore

By arrangement between 17 March - 31 August (2025)

6

T:01382 542890 E:willowhillfife@btinternet.com

W:www.willowhillgarden.weebly.com

An evolving three-acre garden. The house is surrounded by a series of mixed borders designed with different vibrant colour combinations for effect in all seasons. Spectacular mix of roses, herbaceous perennials and annuals planted through the wide borders are a highlight in mid to late summer. A ‘no dig’ 160-foot border in shades of white, blue, purple and pale yellow was created in 2019/2020. The most recent addition to the garden is another ‘no dig’ border in shades of peach, burgundy, yellow, chocolate and acid yellow. Come and see! April and May for late spring bulbs and flowers; June and July for roses and high summer colour; August for late summer colour. The plant stall includes a lovely selection from the garden. Visitors are welcome to bring their own refreshments and picnic in the garden. A season ticket for all these dates, and by arrangement, is £25 plus p&p and admits the ticket holder plus guest. It comes with a limited edition of the Willowhill Garden Guide: 35 pages of beautiful photographs with descriptions of key garden features and plantings. A season ticket with booklet is a perfect gift for garden lovers for a birthday or at Christmas and do treat yourself too! Season tickets are available online at tinyurl.com/yxcj2mzy or by post (cheque for £27.76 payable to Scotland’s Garden Scheme) from Scotland's Gardens Scheme, 23 Castle Street, Edinburgh EH2 3DN.

Directions: 1.5 miles south of Tay Road Bridge. Take the B995 to Newport off the Forgan roundabout. Willowhill is the first house on the left-hand side next to West Friarton Farm Strawberry Shed.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Rio Community Centre 50%

The Carriage House

Blair Estate, Dalry KA24 4ER
Mr and Mrs Luke Borwick

By arrangement between 29 March - 26 October (2025)

57

T:07831 301294 E:lina@blairtrust.co.uk

Set within the historic Blair policies dating back to the 1500s, at the Carriage House the Borwicks have planted a beautiful arboretum. Built on the vision of generations of Blairs of creating a sanctuary of rare species trees, over the past four years a collection of over 160 trees and shrubs has transformed a 10-acre field into a peaceful refuge with year-round variety and colour. Mown pathways offer different vistas and points of interest including mermaids rescuing a girl, carved by a local artist from a Portuguese Laurel stump. View the 24-year old Wellingtonia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) grown from Blair seed, an avenue of eight different lime trees which earned a Queen's Green Canopy Award, a Metasequoia glyptostroboides 'Golden Dawn', and other rare trees. From a bench created from our own wood, enjoy the arboretum’s energy – a special experience. New since 2024 is a beautiful Cumbrian green slate commemorative stone, with superb engraving by the Cordozo Kindersley Workshop: it frames Blair Castle perfectly and honours the three related families who have nurtured this special place since 1105. The Blair crest heads the inscription with the motto “Amo Probos”, and the Royal Scots Greys badge “second to none” recognises the generations of family members serving our country in Scotland’s only cavalry regiment. Wander the Carriage House garden, created from a field since 2002 and planted with many varieties of roses and mature shrubs.

Directions: A737 from Beith. At the roundabout before Dalry take the first left signposted Stewarton. Then go straight on, signposted Bike Route Irvine. Keep going for approximately two miles and keep the estate wall on the right until you come to South Lodge (white building). Turn right down the drive for Blair Estate - The Carriage House is on the right. Public transport to Dalry. Follow SatNav KA24 4ER and enter Blair Estate through the South Lodge.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: The National Trust for Scotland 60%

Bonhard House

Perth PH2 7PQ
Stephen and Charlotte Hay

By arrangement between Groups welcome to enquire (2025)

67

T:07990 574570 E:stephenjohnhay@me.com

Traditional 19th-century garden of five acres approached through an avenue of magnificent oaks. Mature trees, six classified by the National Tree Register as 'remarkable', including a monkey puzzle (1852, one of the first 12 brought to Scotland), sequoias, Douglas fir and a variety of hollies. Reinstated and new herbaceous borders. Rhododendron and azalea beds. Recently planted spring and summer flowering meadow areas with a variety of fruit and nut trees. Beehive and a productive vegetable garden. A new larch arbour with climbing roses and clematis. Grass paths meander through a pond area with shrubs and mature trees. A pinetum with 25 different varieties. Garden emphasis on wildlife habitat as well as aesthetics. Resident red squirrels. Plentiful and varied birdlife.

Directions: On the A94 just under a mile north of Perth take the right turn, signed Murrayshall Country Estate. After approximately one mile take the entrance right marked Bonhard House, at a sharp left turn. From Balbeggie turn left, signposted for Bonhard, one mile north of Scone. Turn right in a half-a-mile, pass any sign for Bonhard Nursery, and enter the drive at sharp right turn.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Freedom from Fistula Foundation 60%

Berandhu

Appin, Argyll PA38 4DD
John and Fiona Landale

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2025)

T:01631 730585 M: 07900 377414 E:johnllandale@gmail.com

A sheltered one-and-a-half acre coastal garden in a scenic setting offering fabulous views over Loch Laich to Loch Linnhe, Castle Stalker and the Morvern hills beyond. Craggy limestone abounds on the undulating site, some of which forms natural rockeries. Native trees mix with introduced firs and conifers. A variety of rhododendrons and azaleas provide spring and early summer colour. A mix of limestone overlaid with peat gives an unusual mix of wild flowers. This well-tended garden also has lovely wild areas of bog garden and woodland.

Directions: In Appin turn off the A828 Connel to Ballachulish road at Gunn's Garage signposted for Port Appin. After one mile when the road turns uphill, it's the first entrance on the right, half way up the hill.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & The Appin Village Hall 30%

Grandhome

Danestone, Aberdeen AB22 8AR
Mrs WJB Paton

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2025)

26

T:01224 722202 E:admin@grandhome.co.uk

Eighteenth-century walled garden incorporating a rose garden and policies with daffodils, tulips, rhododendrons, azaleas, mature trees and shrubs.

Directions: From the north end of North Anderson Drive, continue on the A92 over Persley Bridge, turning left at the Tesco roundabout. After 1¾ miles, turn left through the pillars on a left-hand bend.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

The Tower

1 Northview Terrace, Wormit DD6 8PP
Peter and Angela Davey

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)

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T:07768 406946 E:adavey541@btinternet.com

Situated four miles south of Dundee, this one-acre Edwardian landscaped garden has panoramic views over the River Tay. Set on a hill, a series of paths meander around ponds and a small stream, rockeries featuring hellebores and low-level planting, a curved lawn and larger borders. Original woodland paths lead to a granite grotto with a waterfall pool. At the rear of the house the vegetable garden features raised beds made from granite sets. The garden is colourful throughout the summer, with many architectural plants accentuating the clever hard landscape design.

Directions: From B946 park on Naughton Road outside Spar shop. Walk up the unmade path outside and to the left of the shop. The garden enrance is the second gate on the right.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Brain Tumour Research 60%

Berryfield House

Lentran, Inverness IV3 8RJ
Lynda Perch-Nielsen

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 July (2025)

6

T:01463 831346 M: 07547 960341 E:lyndazpn@gmail.com

An open garden of trees and bushes with views across the Beauly Firth to Ben Wyvis. There are large swathes of bulbs: crocus, dogtooth violets and heritage daffodils. A three-acre wildflower meadow with meandering paths adjoins the garden.

Directions: Halfway between Inverness and Beauly on the A862. From Inverness, four-and-a-quarter miles on the left from crossing over the Clachnaharry railway bridge. From Beauly, one-and-a-quarter miles on the right from The Old North Inn.

Admission: by donation

Charities: Action Medical Research 60%

Rosewells

Baldinnie, Ceres KY15 5LE
Birgitta and Gordon MacDonald

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 August (2025)

67

E:g.macdonald54@hotmail.co.uk

Rosewells, designed by the garden owners, has developed over the last 30 years. It started as a one-and-a-half acre, overgrown paddock. The design is based on the texture and foliage of trees and shrubs to create year-round interest. In spring and summer, colour and scent become increasingly important. In spring, highlights are around 55 magnolias and numerous rhododendrons, many of which are chosen for their foliage. Other highlights include flowering cornus, trillium, fritillaries, erythroniums, peonies, roses, ferns and acers. There have been a number of developments in recent years. More winding paths have been developed creating wildlife friendly areas. There is a new lavender walk which leads to a covered seating area at the bottom of the garden.

Directions: B940 between Pitscottie and Peat Inn, one mile from Pitscottie. Rosewells is the ochre-coloured house.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Save the Children UK 60%

Kirklands

Saline KY12 9TS
Peter and Gill Hart

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)

23c467

T:07787 115477 E:peter@kirklandsgarden.co.uk

W:www.kirklandsgarden.co.uk

Kirklands, built in 1832, has been the Hart family home for 48 years. Over the years we have created a garden. The walled garden was reinstated from a paddock to include terracing and raised beds. In 2023 we introduced two bee hives. The woodland garden comes into life in February with snowdrops followed, over the months, by bluebells, hellebores, trilliums, fritillaries, rhododendrons, meconopsis, candelabra primulas and irises. The rockery displays dwarf rhododendrons and azaleas. The herbaceous borders reach their peak in the summer, continuing into early autumn with a display of bright yellow rudbeckia, verbena and echinacea. Down by the Saline Burn there are 30 species of primula in all colours of the rainbow. Over the red or blue bridge there are 20 acres of naturally regenerating woodland with a pathway by the stream. To keep the grandchildren occupied, Peter built a tree house, climbing frame and rope swing, though we hope they will take an interest in gardening too!

Directions: Junction 4, M90, then B914. Parking in the centre of the village, then a short walk to the garden. Limited disabled parking at Kirklands.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Saline & District Heritage Society 60%

South Flisk

Blebo Craigs, Cupar KY15 5UQ
Mr and Mrs George Young

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 June (2025)

2c46

T:01334 850859 E:southfliskgarden@gmail.com

W:www.standrewspottery.co.uk

The spectacular views to Perthshire and Angus and large flooded quarry full of fish (and occasional otter) planted with impressive marginals, make this garden very special. Flights of old stone steps, cliffs, boulders, exotic ferns and mature trees form a backdrop for carpets of primroses, bluebells, spring bulbs and woodland plants like trilliums, camassia, meconopsis and colourful primulas, with rhododendrons in flower from March to July. In front of the house is a charming, mature walled garden with traditional cottage-garden planting. Next to the house is the St Andrews Pottery where George will demonstrate his pottery skills for those who need a break from the garden! A new water garden with a stream running through was created in 2023.

Directions: Six miles west of St Andrews off B939 between Strathkinness and Pitscottie. There is a small stone bus shelter opposite the road into the village and sign Blebo Craigs. See map on our website - standrewspottery.co.uk. Bus to Blebo Craigs.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 60%

A Blackbird Sings

20 Kings Park, Longniddry EH32 0QL
Graham and Maxine Pettigrew

By arrangement between 1 April - 15 September (2025)

46

T:01875 853003

Situated in the Glassel Park Estate, the planting of this long garden reflects East Lothian habitats including moorland, grassland and woodland, as well as areas of related plant varieties such as rockery, roses, ferns, heucheras and peonies. Together they form a pattern of gardens within a garden accessed by boardwalks and woodland paths. A large water lily pond houses newts and a second pond within a rockery is fed by a waterfall, A cold conservatory contains cacti and insectivorous plants. Vertical structure is provided by a large number of specimen small trees such as Cornus, maples, magnolias, contorted Robinia, Chinese rowan, Davidia and Honey Locust. Animal and bird carvings in wood by Graham reflect local fauna.

Directions: By car: enter Dean Road from A198, right at Kings Avenue, right at Kings Park. House is at the end of the second cul-de-sac. By bus (124, X5): Cunningham Court stop, down Cunningham Court and Old Dean Road to turn right on Kings Avenue and then right at Kings Park.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Leuchie 30% & Scottish Wildlife Trust Ltd 30%

House of Aigas and Field Centre

by Beauly IV4 7AD
Sir John and Lady Lister-Kaye

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2025)

6ek

T:01463 782443 E:info@aigas.co.uk

W:www.aigas.co.uk

The House of Aigas has a small arboretum of named Victorian specimen trees and modern additions. The garden consists of extensive rockeries, herbaceous borders, ponds and shrubs. Aigas Field Centre rangers lead regular guided walks on nature trails through woodland, moorland and around a loch.
Champion Trees: Douglas fir, Atlas cedar and Sequoiadendron giganteum

Directions: Four-and-a-half miles from Beauly on the A831 Cannich/Glen Affric road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Highland Hospice: Aird branch 60%

Glassmount House

by Kirkcaldy KY2 5UT
Peter, James and Irene Thomson

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)

7

T:07834 555728 E:mcmoonter@yahoo.co.uk

Densely planted walled garden with surrounding woodland. An A-listed sundial, Mackenzie & Moncur greenhouse and historical doocot are complemented by a number of newer structures. Daffodils are followed by a mass of candelabra and cowslip primula, meconopsis and Cardiocrinum giganteum. Hedges and topiary form backdrops for an abundance of bulbs, clematis, rambling roses and perennials, creating interest through the summer into September. The garden is now extending beyond the walls, with new areas of naturalistic planting blending the boundary between the surrounding fields and the woodland.

Directions: From Kirkcaldy, head west on the B9157. Turn left immediately after the railway bridge on the edge of town. Follow the single track road for one-and-a-half miles and cross the crossroads. Glassmount House is the first turning on your right.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Parkinsons UK 60%

Fernlea Garden

Corvisel Road, Newton Stewart DG8 6LW
Mrs Jenny Gustafson

By arrangement between Homemade teas on 10th August, teas can be provided with prior arrangement for 'by arrangement' visitors (2025)

c6

T:07909 951885/ 01671 638273 E:floralbasket@proton.me

A secluded town garden of a third-of-an-acre, it was created in 2006 to complement a new house. There are many rare and unusual trees and shrubs. Two herbaceous borders, one with hot colours and the other pastels. A Chinese-inspired corner, small pond, fruit trees including a Galloway pippin apple and soft fruit. The upper part of the garden is hidden behind a tall beech hedge, where there is a summer house and adjacent woodland planting.

Directions: Turn right at the roundabout on the A75 if coming from Dumfries direction. Go left at the cattle market (opposite the Crown Hotel) and it is the first through road on the right.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: GDI: red squirrels, East Wigtownshire 60%

46 South Street

St Andrews KY16 9JT
Mrs June Baxter

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 July (2025)

467

T:01334 474995 E:ejbaxter986@gmail.com

Renowned town garden in medieval long rig, with orchard underplanted with wildflowers and bulbs, and many unusual flowering shrubs. Roses and other climbers clothe the surrounding high walls. Shrub roses planted in a delightful central parterre fill the air with scent. An historic and unique feature in St Andrews, but also a wonderfully planted space where different styles of planting complement the range of plants used. Historic doocot.

Directions: Access and parking information on request.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Friends of Craigtoun 60%

Hunter's Tryst

95 Oxgangs Road, Edinburgh EH10 7BA
Jean Knox

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)

4

T:07708 653584 E:jean.knox@blueyonder.co.uk

Well-stocked and beautifully designed, mature, medium-sized town garden comprising herbaceous and shrub beds, lawn, fruit and some vegetables, water features, seating areas, trees and an example of cloud pruning. This is a wildlife-friendly garden that has been transformed from a wilderness 40 years ago and continues to evolve. In 2017 two raised beds were added to the front garden. This hidden treasure of a garden was featured on Beechgrove in June 2015 and on The Instant Gardener in June 2016.

Directions: From Fairmilehead crossroads head down Oxgangs Road to Hunter’s Tryst roundabout and it's the last house on the left. Buses 4, 5, 27, 400. The bus stop is at Hunter’s Tryst and the garden is opposite.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Lothian Cat Rescue 30% & St.Columba’s Hospice Care 30%

The Croft

Houston Road Langbank PA14 6XT
Oliver Miller

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2025)

49

E:edburd@btinternet.com

This special 1 acre garden is on a steep rocky site facing north overlooking the Clyde just opposite Dumbarton Rock. There were mature elms when we arrived in 1981which have been replaced with several varieties of birch and rowan, a flowering Davidia also Liriodendron (tulip tree) and a Metasequoia (Dawn Redwood). There are some magnolias and a good collection of acers together with rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias. Around the waterfall tree ferns are happy, ferns in general enjoy the shady damp conditions. The Trachycarpus palms from the mountains of China also grow well. Some of the newly introduced bamboos with blue, black, golden and green culms (canes) are now over 25ft tall. In summer the hydrangeas take over, there is a wide selection including the Aspera section with their huge flowers and fuzzy leaves. Autumn brings the reds, oranges and yellows on acers, rowan, Parrotia, Cercidiphyllum. There is a rushing stream (usually) four springs and several ponds. The garden is steep, there are steps/paved paths and it can be wet. Stout footwear and care is essential.

Directions: From Langbank, take the Houston Road out of the village, under railway bridge and The Croft is 100 yards on the left (look out for conical yews).

Admission: £7.50, children free

Charities: Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue 60%

Gledenholm House

Ae Village , Dumfries DG1 1RF
Les Jack

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 August (2025)

c69

T:01387860278 E:les@gledenholm.co.uk

Developed over the past 35 years, this garden of two acres is set in countryside near Ae Village with some original planting of mature trees dating back to the 1870s. April features spring bulbs, anemones, flowering currants and acers opening. May to June has species rhododendrons, azaleas and Japanese maples, with the herbaceous beds showing colour. July and August feature cottage garden favourites, with lilies, clematis, a large rambling rose arch and hydrangea borders. There are always plants for sale. The progress of the making of the garden can be seen on the SGS website at: scotlandsgardens.org/the-creation-of-a-garden/.

Directions: The garden is ten miles north of Dumfries, near Ae Village. Take the A701 from Dumfriesand after seven miles , take a left turn to Ae Village. At the village take a sharp left at the four -way junction and travel for 0.7 miles. Gledenholm House is then the second on the right with black cast iron gates.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Burnside

Littlemill Road, Drongan KA6 7EN
Sue Simpson and George Watt

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)

067

T:01292 592445 E:suesimpson33@btinternet.com

This maturing and constantly changing six-and-a-half acre garden began in 2006. There is a wide range of plants from trees to alpines, giving colour and variability all year. Next to the road flows the Drumbowie Burn, parallel to which is a woodland border with snowdrops, erythroniums, hellebores, trilliums, rhododendrons and acers. Near the house are a raised bed and large collection of troughs, with an interesting range of alpines. The garden boasts herbaceous beds, ericaceous garden, screes, three alpine glasshouses with award-winning plants, an extensive Streptocarpus collection, polytunnel, pond and arboretum - underplanted with daffodils, camassia, fritillaries and crocus. With a view towards matrimonial harmony, there are two sheds which may be of interest. The garden is only 15 minutes from Dumfries House.

Directions: From the A77 Ayr bypass take the A70 Cumnock for 5¼ miles, at Coalhall, turn onto the B730 Drongan (south) for 2½ miles. Burnside entrance is immediately adjacent to a black/white parapeted bridge. Ordnance survey grid ref: NS455162.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer's Research UK 60%

Corsock House

Corsock, Castle Douglas DG7 3DJ
The Ingall family

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 May (2025)

67

T:01644 440250 E:jingall@hotmail.com

Corsock House garden, renowned for its substantial collection of rhododendrons, includes an amazing variety of designed landscape, from a strictly formal walled garden, through richly planted woodlands full of different vistas, artfully designed water features and surprises to extensive lawns showing off the Bryce baronial mansion. This is an Arcadian garden with pools and temples, described by Ken Cox as ‘perhaps my favourite of Scotland’s many woodland gardens’.

Directions: Off the A75, Dumfries is 14 miles, Castle Douglas is 10 miles, Corsock Village is half-mile on the A712.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Corsock & Kirkpatrick Durham Church Of Scotland 60%

Dundonnell House

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QW
Dundonnell Estates

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2025)

6e7

T:07789 390028 E:sueandwill@icloud.com

Camellias, magnolias and bulbs in spring, rhododendrons and laburnum walk in this ancient walled garden. Exciting planting gives all year round interest, centred around one of the oldest yew trees in Scotland. A water sculpture, unique Victorian glass house, riverside walk, arboretum - all in the valley below the peaks of An Teallach.
Champion Trees: Yew and Holly

Directions: Turn off the A835 at Braemore on to the A832. After 11 miles take the Badralloch turn for a ½ mile.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 30% & Environmental Investigation Agency 30%

Ruthven Cottage Hardy Plant Nursery

Delnies, Nairn IV12 5NT
Mari and Kevin Reid

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)

5

T:07874 779705 E:kevin.mari@gmail.com

The garden has exciting interest all year round. It features several large colourful herbaceous borders and many of the plants are sold at the nursery. The naturalistic style of planting with grasses and perennials looks good from late spring to late summer. There is also a pond, greenhouse and chickens.

Directions: From Inverness take the A96 to Nairn, Ruthven Cottage is on your left just before the Sandown Road Crossroads. From Nairn the entrance is on your right off the A96. Ruthven Cottage is at the end of the lane.

Admission: by donation

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Broomhill Villa

4 Edinburgh Road, Greenlaw TD10 6XF
Tatyana Aplin

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 June (2025)

67

T:07957 288557 E:aplin848@btinternet.com

The garden at Broomhill is on the northern side of Greenlaw, comprising half-an-acre of spring colour nestled between village and farmland. The garden is maintained by a passionate plant collector featuring narcissi, tulips, meconopses and hundreds of other flowers. The collection has been developed along informal lines with treats at every turn. A radiant display of blooms that changes through the year is intended not only for the visual pleasure of the garden but also for the house with cut flower arrangements as well as produce for the table and larder.

Directions: On the A697 at the northern end of Greenlaw.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Cancer Research UK 60%

Pitcurran House

Abernethy PH2 9LH
The Hon Ranald and Mrs Noel-Paton

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 August (2025)

3c467

T:01738 850933 / 07760 420485 E:patricianp@pitcurran.com

This end-of-village garden was created 21 years ago. It includes an interesting combination of trees, rare shrubs and herbaceous plants including azaleas, rhododendrons, tree peonies, trillium and veratrum. Also a rose pergola, eucryphias and a large west-facing hydrangea border for the later summer. Above the pond there is a good collection of pink and white-barked birch and a young arboretum, from which there are fine views over the Earn and Tay valleys.

Directions: South-east of Perth. From the M90 (exit nine) take the A912 towards Glenfarg, go left at the roundabout onto the A913 to Abernethy. Pitcurran House is at the far eastern end of the village. Buses run through Abernethy from Perth and the surrounding districts.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Breakthrough T1D: (formerly Juvenile Diabetes RF) 60%

Thirlestane

Kelso TD5 8PD
Catherine Ross and John Wylie

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2025)

67

T:01573 420487 E:catherineaross37@gmail.com

Thirlestane is a large informal garden. There is a walled garden with colour-themed borders and an orchard with many old varieties of fruit trees. In front of the house prairie planting is surrounded by high beech hedges. The young nine-acre wood has trees and shrubs selected for autumn colour and for decorative bark and fruit. These include Persian Ironwood, Golden Rain Tree, Scarlet Oak, Monarch Birch, Himalayan Birch, Tibetan Cherry, Chinese Hawthorn and various maples.

Directions: Thirlestane is near Yetholm, not to be confused with Thirlestane Castle, Lauder. Do not follow SatNav, it will try to take you to Lochside. From Kelso, take the B6352 towards Yetholm for about six miles. Continue past a cottage on the edge of the road. Thirlestane is next on the left, opposite the road to Lochside. From Yetholm, take the road to Kelso for about two miles. After a very sharp corner, Thirlestane is on the right.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 60%

Elvanrock

Watson Street, Banchory AB31 5TR
Margaret Owen

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)

49

E:margaret.owen@gmail.com

A town garden on a south-facing slope, redesigned over five years to manage the slopes. Planned for year round colour and ease of care. The garden offers five peaceful seating areas to enjoy the cottage garden borders, surrounded by a selection of rhododendron, Cornus kousa and flowering cherries with views across the Dee Valley.

Directions: By bus, alight at either Banchory Primary school (3 minute walk along Ramsay Road) or at Banchory High Street (10 minute walk uphill via Arbeadie Terrace and Elms Rise). On street parking is available.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Blood Cancer UK 60%

Kirkmuir Cottage

KIlwinning Road, Stewarton KA3 3DZ
Mr and Mrs Brian Macpherson

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 August (2025)

7

E:dhmmacp@gmail.com

This garden was created in 1997 from a small field and includes a large pond which was originally a small quarry. It covers approximately one-and-a-half-acres of mature garden and, using hedging and shrubbery the garden is split into garden 'rooms' including woodland, formal borders, laburnum arch, herbaceous borders, rhododendrons and azaleas. Large lawn area and wildlife pond. The garden also features many interesting and unusual artefacts and sculptures.

Directions: From the M77 take the B778 to Stewarton. At the traffic lights, turn left and continue to the mini-roundabout. Turn right towards the B778 Kilwinning. Continue for 100 yards under the railway bridge, take an immediate left at the war memorial and continue along Kilwinning Road until you reach the countryside. Kirkmuir is the first farm road on the right hand side. The cottage and garden is on the left at the end of the farm road. Please follow these directions not SatNav.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Capability Scotland 60%

16 Mulla

Voe, Shetland ZE2 9XQ
Linda Richardson

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)

47

T:07765 037516 E:linda@lindarichardson.co.uk

A garden on the Clubb of Mulla, a hillside overlooking Olnafirth with views of the sea and Lower Voe. Started in October 2016, the steep overgrown plot looked like a continuation of the moor at the back of the house. This garden shows what can be achieved in a very windy and exposed situation, battling against the extremes of the Shetland weather. Gardening with wildlife in mind, trees were planted in the spring of 2017, now providing shelter for birds. There are herbaceous borders, rockery, vegetable bed, 3.6 x 2.4 metre greenhouse, mini wildflower meadow strips and a natural water feature which is a long drainage ditch planted up with willows and water-loving plants. Always a work in progress, more trees have been planted to increase wildlife habitat. The owner is an artist-printmaker with an open studio that folk are welcome to look around too.

Directions: Eighteen miles north of Lerwick on the A970 is Voe. Pass the North Isles junction and Tagon Stores on your right. Turn right into Mulla and number 16 is up the hill on your left. Bus no. 21 (Hillswick) and 23 (Toft) stop on the main road at the bottom of Mulla.

Admission: by donation

Charities: RSPB: for projects in Shetland 60%

Craigowan

Ballinluig PH9 0NE
Simon Jones

By arrangement between 6 April - 30 June (2025)

67

T:07856 859219 E:simonqjones@mail.com

We welcome you to view our five-acre, family-developed showpiece garden, maturing over the last 35 years. The extensive range of around a thousand species and hybrid rhododendrons flower from January to their peak in April and May depending on frost damage due to our location at 500 feet above sea level. These are backed up by ornamental trees, perennials and an extensive herbaceous border in a diverse mix of woodland, prepared beds and specialist rhododendron planting areas. We are on a hillside but have tried to make the garden as accessible as possible to all. Most visitors require at least an hour for a basic viewing.

Directions: From north or southbound of the A9 to Ballinluig junction. Pass the Ballinluig filling station and motor grill on your right. Turn right at the primary school following the Tulliemet/Dalcapon sign; this is a single track road with passing places. About half-a-mile up the road take a left turning to Dalcapon, a further mile up the road is Craigowan garden. It is surrounded by a deer fence on the left. Please park on paviours adjoining the house.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: LUPUS UK 60%

Auldbyres Farm Garden

Coylton KA6 6HG
Marshall and Sue Veitch

By arrangement between 12 April - 31 August (2025)

67

E:su.pavet@btinternet.com

Surrounded by a working farm, this compact, established garden has mature shrubs, wildlife pond, bog garden and stream, borrowing stunning countryside views towards Ayr and Arran. Well-behaved spring borders give way to a riot of summer perennial favourites. Many 'found objects' of agricultural interest. Extensive containers brighten the farmyard with seasonal displays.

Directions: In Coylton take the road signposted B742, past Coylton Arms Pub in Low Coylton, Auldbyres is signposted on the left after ½ mile.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre 60%

Old Farm Cottage

The Ladywell, Nemphlar, Lanark ML11 9GX
Ian and Anne Sinclair

By arrangement between 18 April - 30 September (2025)

467

T:01555 663345 M: 07833 204180 E:anniesinclair58@gmail.com

Ian and Anne have been developing this delightful one acre garden for twenty five years and it now has something to interest visitors from springtime through until autumn. In April and May daffodils, narcissi, camassias, hellebores, trilliums, spring flowering shrubs and trees light up the garden. A large array of colourful trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plantings, many of them scented, can be enjoyed throughout the rest of the year. Prunus Amanogawa, Amelanchiers, Katsura trees and the spectacular fruit of Cornus kousas are just a few of the plants that you can expect to see. The garden will be of interest not only for gardeners but bird watchers, walkers and photographers.

Directions: Leave the A73 at Cartland Bridge (Lanark to Carluke Road) or the A72 (Clyde Valley Road) at Crossford. Both routes are well signposted. The garden is on the Nemphlar spur of the Clyde Walkway, just off the West Nemphlar Road on Ladywell Lane. One mile walk from Cartland Bridge bus stop.

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Dogs Trust 60%

Ardno

Cairndow PA26 8BE
Denzil How

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)

7

T:Rob Backhouse Gardener 01499 302304 E:denzil.how@btconnect.com

From the rich, varied landscape, a romantic garden has been created from scratch over the past 25 years. Visitors can stroll in the walled garden near the house, or explore the old oak wood planted with many interesting shrubs. These are growing up fast, adding shape and colour. Across the burn is the gorge and a wonderful waterfall. The woodland garden ends in the meadow, planted with irises and a collection of unusual trees, which continues down to the beach and a magnificent huge rock. My garden is a place to be peaceful in. Come and enjoy, but be prepared as some of the paths are steep with lots of steps and are unfortunately not suitable for wheelchairs.

Directions: Situated at the top end of Loch Fyne between Cairndow and St Catherines, off the A815.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Rediweld Foundation 60%

Thorntree

Arnprior FK8 3EY
Mark and Carol Seymour

By arrangement between 1 May - 1 September (2025)

6

T:01786 870710 E:carolseymour666@gmail.com

W:www.thorntreebarn.co.uk

See the amazing views from Aberfoyle and the hills beyond to Doune. Thorntree is a cottage garden that has evolved from growing dried flowers into triangle beds to meander through with more and more plants filling in gaps! This year's task was pruning trees to make sure the sun gets through. The garden is kept with the aid of WRAGS trainees, now our 6th - they come for a year to be trained two days a week. I am so grateful to them all. I kept the garden as much as possible as the farmer's wife who lived here before had it - 33 years ago! Every year is different. In 2024 the hydrangeas all flowered so well, and roses were still in full first bloom in October. We are also usually here so come and see: just email to make sure we are not out.

Directions: On the A811, to Arnprior, then take the Fintry Road; Thorntree is second on the right.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Forth Driving Group RDA SCIO 60%

Glenkyllachy

Tomatin IV13 7YA
Mr and Mrs Philip Mackenzie

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)

7

E:emmaglenkyllachy@gmail.com

In a magnificent Highland glen, 1200 feet above sea level, Glenkyllachy is a beautiful garden of shrubs, herbaceous plants, rhododendrons, trees, and spectacular views down the Findhorn River. There are some rare specimens and a recently planted arboretum. Rhododendrons and bulbs flower in May/June, herbaceous plants bloom through July/August with glorious autumn colours in September and October. There is a very productive vegetable garden, polytunnel, fruit cage and greenhouse as well as original sculptures and a Highgrove-inspired wall which provide year round interest. Featured on TV Beechgrove, in The English Garden Magazine and recently in Scottish Field (November 2023). The garden is constantly evolving with new areas being developed and planting schemes changed.

Directions: Turn off the A9 at Tomatin and take the Coignafearn/Garbole single-track road down the north-side of the River Findhorn, there is a cattle grid and gate on the right 500 yards AFTER the humpback bridge and the sign to Farr.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie 60%

Eas Mhor

Cnoc-a-Challtuinn, Clachan Seil, Oban PA34 4TR
Mrs Kimbra Lesley Barrett

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)

2c4

T:01852 300469 E:kimbra1745@gmail.com

All the usual joys of a west coast garden plus some delightful surprises! A small contemporary garden on a sloping site - the emphasis being on scent and exotic plant material. Unusual and rare blue Borinda bamboos (only recently discovered in China) and bananas. The garden is at its best in mid to late summer when shrub roses and sweet peas fill the air with scent. The delightful, sunny deck overlooks stylish white-walled ponds with cascading water blades. Recent additions include a 20-foot citrus house, Chinese pergola walk and peony border.

Directions: After arranging a visit and agreeing a time, you will be met at the Tigh An Truish car park by the Atlantic Bridge, Isle of Seil. Or if travelling by bus, you will be met off the bus and taken to Eas Mhor. Please inform Mrs Barrett the time of your arrival. The bus stops at the bottom of Cnoc-a-Challtuinn Road.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: ABWA: Argyll & Bute Woman's Aid - support for domestic abuse - Oban Branch 60%

Brooklands

Crocketford DG2 8QH
Mr and Mrs Robert Herries

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)

67

T:Gardener, Matthew Grieve: 07765 491902

Large old walled garden with a wide selection of plants, including some interesting shrubs and climbers and a kitchen garden. Mature woodland with many established rhododendrons and azaleas, and carpeted with snowdrops in February.

Directions: Turn off the A712 Crocketford to New Galloway Road one mile outside Crocketford at the Gothic gatehouse (on the right travelling north).

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Drumpark

Irongray DG2 9TX
Mr and Mrs Iain Mitchell

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 August (2025)

e7

T:01387 820323 or 07743 895351 E:iain.liz.mitchell@gmail.com

Well-contoured woodland garden and extensive policies nurture mature azaleas, rhododendrons and rare shrubs among impressive specimen trees. Water garden with primulas and meconopsis. Victorian walled garden with fruit trees and garden produce. There is also a beautiful herbaceous border. All planting is set in a natural bowl providing attractive vistas.
Champion Trees: Abies cephalonica, Abies procera, Chamaecyparis lawsoniana, Cryptomeria japonica.

Directions: Dumfries bypass, head north on the A76 for a half mile, turn left at the signpost to Lochside Industrial Estates and immediately right onto Irongray Road; continue for five miles; the gates are next to a lodge looking like a gingerbread house and set in a sandstone wall on the left (half-mile after Routin’ Brig).

Admission: by donation

Charities: Loch Arthur 60%

101 Greenbank Crescent

Edinburgh EH10 5TA
Jerry and Christine Gregson

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 August (2025)

4

T:0131 447 6492 E:jerry_gregson@yahoo.co.uk

The house is on a busy bus route, but it hides a fascinating garden on a sloping site. There are views over Braidburn Valley Park to the Pentland Hills. Paths wind down from the oval lawn, past a handsome magnolia tree, to a terrace which overlooks a water feature and flowering shrubs. Further steps lead past a scree bed of azalea and rhododendron to a productive area of vegetable beds and a neatly-concealed composting area. We aim to have colour, contrast and interest all year round.

Directions: From the city centre take the A702 through Morningside. Continue uphill and turn right at Greenbank Church on to Greenbank Crescent. Buses 5 and 16; the stop is for Greenbank Row.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: St.Columba’s Hospice Care 60%

The Old Farmhouse

Dunning Road, Auchterarder PH3 1DU
Jane and Nigel Gallier

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 June (2025)

6

T:01764 662471 E:thegalliers@msn.com

A garden of approximately one acre with herbaceous borders, a gravel garden, vegetable garden, trained fruit trees in half-wine barrels, wild areas under-planted with bulbs, and woodland areas, with other areas still being developed. As you approach the house, look out for our kamikaze hens. The garden is not always immaculate; a well-ordered winter garden and a floriferous summer garden.

Directions: From the A9 take the A824 and halfway between Auchterarder and Aberuthven take the B8062 at Grand Eagles and head towards Dunning. We are on the left just before the A9 bridge.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: SSAFA Forces Help 60%

The Potting Shed

Broughton Place, Broughton, Biggar ML12 6HJ
Jane and Graham Buchanan-Dunlop

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)

c67

T:01899 830574 E:buchanandunlop@btinternet.com

A one-acre garden begun from scratch in 2008, on an exposed hillside at 900 feet. It contains herbaceous plants, climbers, shrubs and trees - all selected for wind resistance and ability to cope with the poor, stony soil. There are usually fine views to the Southern Uplands.

Directions: Signposted from the main A701 Edinburgh - Moffat Road, immediately north of Broughton village.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Nomad Beat Ltd: Peebles Community Music School 60%

48 Rumblingwell

48 Rumblingwell, Dunfermline KY12 9AS
Rik Morley

By arrangement between 1 May - 1 July (2025)

0467

T:07733 855794 E:rik.morley@gmail.com

Welcome to our compact city garden! On entering you are welcomed by a small butterfly meadow, planted rockery and a newly-established fernery. A splash of colour from the early May alliums and rhododendrons leads through to an alpine-planted water feature and cascading ponds with a Japanese/cottage garden aesthetic. A key feature of the garden is the many bearded and species irises (over 100) adorning each garden bed. Uncommon ornamental trees and shrubs (many from Asia) add layers of height, shade and fruits in the summer. Come and join us for a cup of tea and take a moment to enjoy our tranquil space.

Directions: The garden is approached via a short path which is opposite Stephens drive-through bakery and by the side of Simpson's Motors. The No.4 bus from Dunfermline bus station runs regularly to a stop very close to the house.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Wader Quest 60%

Carig Dhubh

Bonskeid, Pitlochry PH16 5NP
Jane and Niall Graham-Campbell

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)

7

T:01796 473469 E:niallgc@btinternet.com

'I don’t know how Niall and Jane manage to grow their splendid meconopsis on the sand and rock of their garden but they do, most successfully.' In this stunning situation, when not admiring the views, you will find wonderful primulas, cardiocrinum and meconopsis, all interspersed between beautiful shrubs and other herbaceous plants. Look up and in July you will see roses flowering 40 feet up in the tree. This is a gem of a garden and you will be welcomed by Niall and Jane Graham-Campbell with all their expert knowledge.

Directions: Take the old A9 between Pitlochry and Killiecrankie, turn west on the Tummel Bridge Road B8019, Carig Dhubh is three-quarters of a mile on the north side of the road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Earl Haig Fund Poppy Scotland 60%

Beechwood

Broughton, Peeblesshire ML12 6HH
Susheila and James Gordon

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)

267

T:07810 837068 or 01899 830443 E:susheilarachan@gmail.com

W:www.rachan.co.uk

An informal sculptor's garden adjacent to a mature woodland and pond. A well-planted stream runs through the garden. There are varied perennial meadows to encourage wildlife and provide forage for the resident bees, it also features many examples of the owners' artworks which are inspired by the natural world.

Directions: Approximately one mile south of Broughton take the B712 off the A701. Then first left turn onto unmade road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: MND Scotland 60%

Lennel Bank

Coldstream TD12 4EX
Mrs Honor Brown

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)

07

T:01890 882297 E:honor.b.brown@gmail.com

Lennel Bank is a terraced garden overlooking the River Tweed, consisting of wide borders packed with shrubs and perennial planting, some unusual. The water garden, built in 2008, is surrounded by a rockery and utilises the slope, ending in a pond. There is a small kitchen garden with raised beds in unusual shapes. Different growing conditions throughout the garden from dry, wet, shady and sunny, lend themselves to a variety of plants and enhance interest in the garden.

Directions: On the A6112 Coldstream to Duns road, one mile from Coldstream.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: British Heart Foundation 60%

Old Allangrange

Munlochy IV8 8NZ
J J Gladwin

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)

e

T:01463 811304 E:office@blackislegardendesign.com

We have an ornamental garden surrounding the house (new information discovered dates it from the 17th rather than 18th Century), and a three acre productive garden with two Keder greenhouses, designed using agroforestry and permaculture principles and gardened bio-dynamically using no-dig technique. The ornamental garden has different areas with distinctive characters. There is a parterre in front of the house with informal planting, a lower garden, an ornamental propagation garden, a mound and orchard. Hedges, (pleached lime, yew, beech, box, holly and mixed species field hedges) clipped in various styles connect the different areas of the garden. We have started to remove perimeter wire fences replacing them with log hedges and brash bunds. With a keen interest in gardening for biodiversity from the soil upwards, no chemicals have been used since our arrival in 1995. The development and improvement of the garden is ongoing.
Champion Trees: Yew and sweet chestnut.

Directions: From Inverness head four miles north on the A9, and follow the directions for Black Isle Brewery. Park up at the Brewery and walk down to the garden. Directions will be given in the shop.

Admission: £7.50, children free

Charities: Flourish 60%

Orchard Cottage

Lunan Bay, Inverkeilor, Arbroath DD11 5SS
Carol Evans

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)

2ck9

T:07485 609506

This is a cottage garden 20 years in the making. Lots of art is incorporated and plenty of seating to catch the precious sun. The garden is divided into four main areas: lawned with wall and borders; a pond area with abundant planting and greenhouse; a productive area with raised beds, fruit cage and a converted aviary; and finally a shaded garden spot to look to Red Castle. The garden is about abundance and cultivated plants sit side-by-side with wild flowers, giving colour and interest for as much of the year as possible.

Directions: From Inverkeilor on the A92 north of Arbroath, take the turn off for Lunan Bay. After 1½ miles, you come to a T junction. Ignore the farm track opposite. Take the left turn and after 200 yards approx you start to go downhill. There is a house on the left called the Bears Den. Take the first right turn as you start to go downhill. It's an unmade track with four houses listed. Orchard Cottage is the first on the left with wooden gates.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: LBCP: Lunan Bay Communities Partnership 60%

Barochreal

Kilninver, Oban, Argyll PA34 4UT
Nigel and Antoinette Mitchell

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)

46

T:01852 316151 E:antoinettemitchell1946@gmail.com

W:www.barochreal.co.uk

The garden was started in 2006. Fencing and stone walling define it from the rest of Barochreal land. Every year an area has been added, resulting in the gardens you will see today. There are rhododendron banks, a water feature, waterfalls and burns, a pond, a walled rose garden, active beehives (now housed in a purpose-built bee shelter built in 2021), tiered areas, a greenhouse and wild garden across the burn. Maintained walking tracks in the fields lead to viewpoints. Biodiversity studies revealed that rare butterflies inhabit the small glen by the waterfall. There are forty different species of moths including rare micro moths and over seventy species of wildflowers in the fields, including three types of wild orchid. There is an abundance of wildlife including red squirrels, pine martens and a wide range of birds can be seen. This garden is a haven of tranquillity, as seen in episode 9 of 2022 Beechgrove Garden.

Directions: Fifteen minutes south of Oban. On the main A816 Oban to Lochgilphead road just to the south of the village of Kilninver on the left-hand side of the road. Bus Oban - Lochgilpead stops at Kilninver School, short walk after. Please disregard SatNav and use what3words address instead www.w3w.co/albums.forest.tinned

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Scottish SPCA 60%

Netherbyres

Eyemouth TD14 5SE
Col S J Furness

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 August (2025)

57

T:01890 750337

An unusual, elliptical walled garden, dating from 1740, with a mixture of flowers, fruit and vegetables. A very old pear tree, possibly dating from the 18th century, and the largest rose in Berwickshire, Rosa filipes 'Kiftsgate'. A wide variety of roses and herbaceous borders.

Directions: ½ mile south of Eyemouth on the A1107 to Berwick.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Dal an Eas

Kilmore, Oban PA34 4XU
Mary Lindsay

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)

2c7

T:01631 770246 E:marylindsayargyll@googlemail.com

An informal organic country garden with the aim of increasing the biodiversity of native plants and insects while adding interest and colour with introduced trees, shrubs and naturalised perennials. There is a structured garden round the house and beyond there are extensive flower-filled ‘meadows’ with five different species of native orchid. Grass paths lead to waterfalls, vegetable plot, woodland garden, views and ancient archaeological sites.

Directions: From Oban take the A816 to Kilmore three-and-a-half miles south of Oban. Turn left on the road to Barran and Musdale. Keep left at the junction for Connel. Dal an Eas is approximately one mile on the left before the big hedges.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Amat

Amat Lodge, Ardgay IV24 3BS
Jonny and Sara Shaw

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 July (2025)

6e7

T:07712 266500 E:sara.amat@aol.co.uk

Over the last few years there have been big changes in the garden and there is now much more interest during the summer months. There is a new mini stumpery and many changes to the original borders. The river Carron flows around the edge of the garden and the old Amat Caledonian Forest is close by. Large specimen trees surround the house, plus many new ones planted in the policies in the last few years. There are several herbaceous borders, rhododendrons, trees and shrubs, all set in a large lawn. It is possible to go on a short woodland and river walk and you may see red squirrels which were reintroduced some years ago and are often in and around the garden.
Champion Trees: Abies Procera, Noble Fir

Directions: Take the road from Ardgay to Croick, nine miles. Turn left at the red phone box and the garden is 500 yards on the left.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & Marie Curie 30%

Beech Cottage

The Wynd, Muthill PH5 2AP
Rosalyn Serex

By arrangement between 1 May - 1 September (2025)

34

T:07590 813509 E:rosalyn@serex.me

Nestled at the foot of The Wynd in the conservation village of Muthill, the garden is surrounded by the ancient trees of Lindores. The main attraction of the garden is the collection of 200 roses interspersed with companion perennials. A well planted Koi pond provides a relaxing area to be seated.

Directions: The Wynd is a street perpendicular to Drummond Street. The street name is clearly displayed on the corner house. The cottage is at the bottom of The Wynd approx 80 metres slightly downhill. Please note The Wynd is very narrow and is not suitable for large vehicles and is extremely difficult to turn around. Recommend using Drummond Street to park where there are usually sufficient spaces. Bus routes in Muthill: 18 – Auchterarder/Crieff; 45 - Town Service/Crieff; 15A – Perth/ St Fillans or Stirling; 615 – Perth/ St Fillans or Stirling. Bus stops are on Drummond Street - from here, head east towards the church/old church monuments.

Admission: by donation

Charities: The Dystonia Society 60%

Barlockhart Lodge

Glenluce DG8 0JG
Barlockhart Gardeners

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)

0c6

T:07821 776226 E:neilharper1962@btinternet.com

A newly-created garden, on a domestic scale, which is very much a work in progress. The main part is a reclaimed riding manege, which has been transformed with meandering paths around borders planted with perennials and grasses to reflect the local undulating landscape. A rockery border and greenhouse are to one side of the house and traditional cottage-style borders are to the front and other side. A small vegetable plot with raised beds and a polycarbonate greenhouse is to the rear. The garden is situated about a mile from Luce Bay and has the benefits of the Gulf Stream, but the disadvantages of an exposed, shadeless position.

Directions: Take the A75 to Glenluce. On the hill which links the two Glenluce turnoffs, take the single-track unmarked lane, signposted for Whithorn Way. Property is roughly one mile along the lane, on the left.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: PIRSAC 60%

West Leas

near Bonchester Bridge TD9 8TD
Mr and Mrs Robert Laidlaw

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)

67

T:01450 860711 E:ann@johnlaidlawandson.co.uk

The visitor to West Leas can share in an exciting and dramatic project on a grand scale, one that is constantly growing and evolving. A feat of liquid engineering, with a cascading stream contrasting with slow water pools. At its core is a passion for plants, allied to a love and understanding of the land in which they are set. Collections of perennials and shrubs lighten up the landscape to magical effect. The lily pond and woodland planting was added in 2019 and a courtyard garden links to the humidity controlled garden rooms housing a collection of exotics .

Directions: Signposted off the Jedburgh/Bonchester Bridge Road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support: Borders Appeal 60%

Highlands Garden

East Voe, Scalloway, Shetland ZE1 0UR
Sarah Kay

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (Monday, Wednesday & Friday) (2025)

4

T:01595 880526/ 07818 845385 E:info@easterhoull.co.uk

W:www.selfcatering-shetland.co.uk/the-garden/

The garden is in two parts. The upper garden is mostly a rockery, with a large selection of plants, shallow pond, seating area, polycrub and greenhouse with fruit and vegetables. The lower garden is on a steep slope with a spectacular sea view over the village of Scalloway. There is a path to lead visitors around and the garden features a large collection of plants, vegetable patch, deep pond and pergola. It was awarded a Shetland Environmental Award in 2014 for its strong theme of recycling. The owner also has an art studio which you are most welcome to visit when you view the garden.

Directions: Follow the A970 main road towards the village of Scalloway. Near the top of the hill heading towards Scalloway take a sharp turn to the left, signposted Easterhoull Chalets. Follow the road to chalets (painted blue with red roofs) and you will see the yellow SGS sign for the garden. Bus 4 from Lerwick/Scalloway.

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support 60%

The Secret Garden

Isle of Lismore, Oban, Argyll PA34 5UL
Eva Tombs

By arrangement between 1 May - 1 September (2025)

2c

T:07786 374931 E:eva.tombs@gmail.com

A unique garden at the centre of a biodynamic farm on the Island of Lismore in the Inner Hebrides. The garden created from a field has a strong geometric layout that reflects the ecclesiastical history of the island. It has a vegetable garden, a tree nursery, a physic garden, an orchard and a polytunnel. The garden is a haven for wildflowers, birds, bees and butterflies. Standing stones, meadows, new woodlands, mountains and the sea encompass the whole. There is also a herd of rare breed Shetland cattle, chickens, ducks and friendly cats.

Directions: Please telephone for directions. Approximately two miles from Port Appin ferry.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 30% & Oban Gaelic Choir 30%

Kildalloig

Campbeltown PA28 6RE
Mr and Mrs Joe Turner

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)

7

T:07979 855930 E:kildalloig@gmail.com

Coastal garden with some interesting and unusual shrubs including Australasian shrubs and trees, climbing roses, and herbaceous perennials. There is a woodland walk and a pond garden with aquatic and bog plants.

Directions: Take the A83 to Campbeltown, then three miles south-east of the town past Davaar Island.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support 30% & Marie Curie 30%

Struanbridge

Essich Road, Inverness IV2 6AH
Marcus and Catriona Jenks

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)

247

E:mjenks@greenx.co.uk

A small, well-stocked garden approximately three miles from Inverness city centre, set on three levels each with its own distinct character. The entrance to the garden includes a decking area with a small fruit garden and raised beds. The small mid-tier area consists of mainly hydrangeas and rhododendrons and the very informal, hidden lower garden includes a wildlife pond, raised beds, and shaded garden area with a greenhouse, all framed by an old stone bridge and a small burn. Due to its layout, the garden is not suitable for wheelchairs and requires the ability to climb a number of steps to view.

Directions: From the Inverness Southern Distributor road (A8082) exit the Essich roundabout onto Essich Road. Struanbridge is located exactly a ½ mile from the roundabout, on the left. Parking is restricted.,

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Mikeysline 60%

Arndean

by Dollar FK14 7NH
Johnny and Katie Stewart

By arrangement between 6 May - 7 June (2025)

57

T:07940530499 E:johnny@arndean.co.uk

Opening for more than 40 years, this is a beautiful mature garden extending to 15 acres including the woodland walk. There is a formal herbaceous part, a small vegetable garden and an orchard. In addition, there are flowering shrubs, abundant and striking rhododendrons and azaleas as well as many fine specimen trees. There is a tree house for children.

Directions: Arndean is well signposted off the A977.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie 60%

Ilha de Deus

Tiroran, Isle of Mull PA69 6ET
John Innes

By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2025)

2c79

T:01681705022 E:johninnes2009@hotmail.com

Half-acre garden with stunning views of Loch Scridain, the Ross of Mull, and surrounded by mountains and community forest. The current owner has been developing the garden over the last four years with a collection of rhododendrons, camellias, fruit trees, roses, ferns, peonies, lilies and a few exotics from the southern hemisphere, together with three small ponds. Dogs welcome on leads. Small selection of plants for sale. Kindly walk on gravel paths and grassy areas only.

Directions: From A849 (Craignure to Fionnphort) turn right at Kinloch junction onto B8035 'Scenic route to Salen'. The Garden is on the left after 4.5 miles immediately opposite Balevulin. The Saltire is flying when the wind is below 30mph.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Open Doors with Brother Andrew 60%

Hawk House Gardens

Hawk House, Covington Road, Thankerton, Biggar ML12 6NE
Mr and Mrs A Milner-Brown

By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2025)

9

T:07831645527 E:angela@therathouse.com

We invite you to explore our formal and wild gardens at Hawk House, hidden inside protective mixed hedges, with formal gardens, a wildflower meadow, woodland and far-reaching views to the Scottish Borders and Tinto Hills. Since moving here in 2022, bringing many plants from our extensive collections from the nearby manse, we have developed new garden features. These include herbaceous borders, an alpine garden, and hosta beds; there is also a pond, vegetables and fruit, leading to the established wildflower meadow (80 species in 2024) and a hilltop pavilion nestled into the woodland. The garden has a strong environmental ethic, whilst, we hope, adding touches of humour and colour to this two-plus acre plot. 

Directions: Please contact owner for full directions: location: https://w3w.co/stun.scorched.footsteps

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Buglife - The Invertebrate Conservation Trust 60%

Two Gardens in Banchory Devenick

Banchory Devenick AB12 5XT
Angela and Derek Townsley and Jane and Terry O'Kelly

By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2025)

2

T:text 07712 528450 E:janeokelly868@gmail.com

Pinetrees Cottage Banchory Devenick AB12 5XR (Angela and Derek Townsley): A mature garden set in three-quarters of an acre, filled with a wide range of hardy plants including rhododendrons, azaleas, acers, topiary and roses, with two ponds. An alpine house is fronted by stone troughs filled with rock plants. Set in a backdrop of mature pine trees to the north and open fields to the south.

Whin Cottage Ardoe, Aberdeen AB12 5XT (Jane and Terry O'Kelly): A cottage garden of just under half an acre surrounded by farmland. It features a border of rhododendrons and azaleas, several mixed borders, two formal rose beds, a wildlife pond and four raised beds growing a variety of vegetables and flowers for the house. The garden reflects a love of colour and structure and an interest in wildlife.

Directions: Pinetrees Cottage: Banchory Devenick is four miles from Bridge of Dee. Turn off B9077 at Banchory Devenick church. Follow to T-junction, turn right. Next right is Butterywells Steading. Turn into opening and follow track, go around the back of farmhouse (Lochend) and continue on track to Pinetrees. Whin Cottage: Take the B9077 out of Aberdeen. After approximately two miles turn left immediately after Banchory Devenick Church, signposted Banchory Devenick. (There is parking available along the verge on the left.) Turn right after 100 metres. Whin Cottage is on the right immediately after you have turned. There is limited parking outside the cottage.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Fighting For Sight Aberdeen 60%

The Old Manse

Sandhead, Stranraer DG9 9JT
Geoff and Teri Birch

By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2025)

4

T:01776 830455 E:birchteri@gmail.com

A garden for plant lovers recently designed, landscaped and planted by the current owners. Comprising about half an acre, the garden is surrounded by stone walls and features a natural burn, two bridges, a Japanese inspired slope border, a formal parterre, a rose garden, rockeries and a shady woodland area. The Old Manse is close to Logan Botanic Gardens and enjoys the same temperate climate making a range of unusual and interesting planting possible. The colour themed borders include herbaceous perennials, shrubs, young trees, alpines, roses, grasses and bulbs which ensure continuity of interest throughout the seasons.

Directions: From Stranraer take the A716 south following signs for Drummore; past Sandhead, look for a tourist sign for Kirkmadrine Stones and Clachanmore and turn immediately right. The Old Manse is on the corner on the right (known locally as Doctors’ Corner’. A bus service is available from Stranraer and stops at Doctors’ Corner.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Board Of Trustees Of The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh 60%

Portmore

Eddleston EH45 8QU
Mr and Mrs David Reid

By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2025)

1c45d7

T:07905 776894

W:www.portmoregardens.co.uk

Lovingly created by the current owners over the past 30 years; the gardens surrounding the David Bryce-designed mansion house contain mature trees and offer fine views of the surrounding countryside. Large walled garden with box-edged herbaceous borders is planted in stunning colour harmonies, potager, rose garden, pleached lime walk and ornamental fruit cages. The Victorian glasshouses contain fruit trees, roses, geraniums, pelargoniums and a wide variety of tender plants. There is also an Italianate grotto and water garden with shrubs and Meconopsis. The woodland walks are lined with rhododendrons, azaleas and shrub roses. Starred in Good Gardens Guide and featured in Kenneth Cox’s book Scotland for Gardeners and on Beechgrove.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00318

Directions: Off the A703 one mile north of Eddleston. Bus 62.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website

Charities: Abundant Borders (SCIO) 60%

1 Burnton Road

Dalrymple KA6 6DY
David and Margaret Blatchford

By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2025)

4

T:01292 561988 E:d.blatchford273@btinternet.com

A tiny slice of jungle nestled within a small triangular plot. To the front of the house are two beds planted with nectar-secreting plants and seasonal colour. To the rear, an anonymous door leads to a small patio, home to some bonsai, a collection of potted terrestrial ferns and stone troughs hold tender and hardy succulents. A serpentine path meanders through dense planting of palms, brugmansia, bananas and tree ferns. Of note is the use of hardy and tender bromeliads and a collection of aroids such as Arisaemia, Alocasia, Colocasia and giant Zantedeschia. Flower highlights are provided by lilies (species and cultivars) and later in the season, cannas, and hardy gingers such as Hedychium, Cautleya and Roscoea. Nestling amongst the foliage is the giant leafed Tetrapanax together with the rare, giant terrestrial fern Lophosoria.

Directions: From the north take the A77 Ayr to Stranraer. At the roundabout, turn left onto the A713 and follow the road past the hospital to the junction with B742, turn right into the village. The garden is on the corner of Burnton and Barbieston Roads. From the south take the A77 towards Ayr, turn right onto the B7034. Follow into the village, at Kirkton Inn junction turn left onto Barbieston Road. Bus 52 from Ayr. The 52 leaves Ayr bus Station at 20 minutes to the hour and will drop you at the White Horse Pub in the centre of the village.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Dalrymple, Skeldon and Hollybush Project 60%

Kirkbrae House

Culross KY12 8JD
Sandra Bannister

By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2025)

12c467

E:Sandra.bannister18@gmail.com

An acre of walled garden sitting high in the village of Culross in the shadow of the Abbey. With meandering paths through perennial beds, bright annuals and shrubs and trees from as far as South America and Asia, the garden provides interest from late spring until autumn. The garden aims to provide an environment of joy, surprise and opportunity to sit and enjoy the spectacular garden views of the River Forth.

Directions: The garden is located on Kirk Street. On leaving the lower village start to climb up to the Abbey, the garden gates open directly onto Kirk Street. Car parking is either below the garden or near the Abbey. Buses come into the village from Dunfermline and Kincardine.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Pancreatic Cancer Scotland 30% & Perennial 30%

10 Pilmuir Road West

Forres IV36 2HL
Mrs Lorraine Dingwall

By arrangement between 1 June - 1 September (2025)

c

T:01309 674634 E:fixandig@aol.com

Plantswoman’s small town garden with over 300 cultivars of hostas, an extensive collection of hardy geraniums together with many other unusual plants. Managed entirely without the use of artificial fertilisers or chemicals, the owner encourages hedgehogs, toads and wild birds to control slugs. In early spring there are approximately 150 named snowdrops to be seen, some of which are very rare.

Directions: From Tesco roundabout at Forres continue along Nairn Road. Take the first left onto Ramflat Road, then go right at the bottom and first left onto Pilmuir Road West.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support 60%

5 Knott

Clachamish, Portree, Isle of Skye IV51 9NZ
Brian and Joyce Heggie

By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2025)

6

T:07495 442468 E:jbheggie@hotmail.co.uk

W:www.knottskye.co.uk

An informal, organic garden on a gently-sloping half-acre site. Perimeter hedging has enabled a sheltered and tranquil oasis to be created. Winding paths meander through the densely-planted borders filled with a diverse range of perennials, annuals and shrubs. There is also a vegetable area with raised beds and a large polytunnel. A developing wildflower meadow with sea loch views leads onto a sheltered bay and a shoreside walk to the headland. There are regular sightings of seals, otters, sea eagles and harbour porpoises. There is garden seating in several locations. The garden is situated in an easily-reached, particularly quiet and scenic area of Skye. The garden was featured on Beechgrove in 2023.

Directions: From Portree, take the A87 to Uig/Dunvegan. After approximately three miles, take the A850 towards Dunvegan. Six miles on, pass the Treaslane sign. Turn right on the bend at the signpost for Knott.

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: The Way Forward Group 30% & Crossroads Care Skye & Lochalsh 30%

15 Fairfield Road

Broughty Ferry, Dundee DD5 1NX
Aileen Scoular

By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2025)

4679

E:aileen.scoular@me.com

This sunny, contemporary garden contains many mature trees and shrubs, plus lots of recently planted beds and borders. A shady courtyard contains Japanese acers and spring-flowering bulbs, while colourful perennial planting near the house attracts pollinating insects. A new productive area, with raised beds and a greenhouse, is used to grow fruit and veg, plus dahlias and annual cut flowers. The garden is being developed in a sustainable way, where possible – no herbicides or pesticides are used; rainwater is harvested; and the stone used in the landscaping was found in the garden and re-purposed. The garden has a prolific bird and insect population, despite being in an urban location.

Directions: Fairfield Road is easily reached by car, via Dundee Road (A930) or Arbroath Road (A92); by bus - services 73 and 5 both stop on Strathern Road, a two-minute walk away; and by train - Broughty Ferry train station is a 15-20 minute walk. On street parking available.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: RNLI 60%

2 Strathview

Alcaig, Conon Bridge IV7 8HS
Mike and Babs Crocker

By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2025)

2c9

T:01349 862799 Text 07817 042206 E:mpbecrock@gmail.com

A medium-sized garden with mature apple trees and a shady maze of paths through beds packed with perennials sloping down to sea level where there are plenty of birds on the estuary to view. Featuring a small greenhouse, steam model railway which works if weather allows. There are a couple of water features fed by rainwater, leading to a small deep pond. Stunning panoramic view across the Cromarty Firth seen from a 'food forest', with fruit trees growing on a set of home designed arches, runner beans, strawberries and apple trees. Achilty stone retaining walls and steps have been added over the last 14 years. Many plants have been chosen for their perfume. There are various seating areas.

Directions: From Tore roundabout head north for Ullapool on the A835. Take the right turn for Findon onto the B9163. After about one mile, turn left along a tree-lined lane (just before the wooden sign for Alcaig. Parking is limited to two cars in one party.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Friends of Alcaig Telephone Box (SCIO) 60%

Keldaberg

Cunningsburgh, Shetland ZE2 9HG
Mrs L Johnston

By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2025)

6

T:01950 477331/07774539693 E:linda@cunningsburghhall.com

A ‘secret garden’ divided into four areas. A beach garden of grasses, flowers and driftwood. The main area is a sloping perennial border leading down to a greenhouse and vegetable plot and up to a decked area with containers and exotic plants including agaves, pineapple lilies, cannas and gunneras. There is a small pond with a waterfall and goldfish. The area to the back of the house has retaining walls in which rockery plants can be found and, nestled among trees, an arbour in which to rest. In the newer part of the garden there is a wildlife pond with aquatic plants including water lilies, a gunnera and a few frogs! This is situated below the polycrub, in which I grow vegetables, passion flower and fruit trees such as a peach, pear and plum as well as a grapevine. My other vegetables plots are east of the polycrub.

Directions: On the A970 south of Lerwick is Cunningsburgh, take the Gord junction on the left after passing the village hall. Continue along the road to the second house past the Kenwood sign.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland 60%

Glenrinnes Lodge

Dufftown, Keith, Banffshire AB55 4BS
Mrs Kathleen Locke (please contact Glenrinnes Farms Ltd Estate Office)

By arrangement between 2 June - 30 September (not Saturday & Sunday) (2025)

67

T:01340 820384/073939 28049

W:www.glenrinnes.com

The garden and policies surrounding Glenrinnes Lodge are typical of a Victorian lodge. They are full of exciting colourful borders. Newly-developed areas are now beginning to establish and give year-round seasonal interest in the kitchen garden and glasshouse, the secret garden, labyrinth and bog garden. There are also woodland walks and a flight pond and meadow. If you are lucky, you may spot our red squirrel, otter and pine marten, all caught on our woodland trail camera.

Directions: In the centre of Dufftown at the Clock Tower take the B9009 road to Tomintoul for about one mile. After passing Dufftown Golf Club on your right there is a lane to the left, which leads to two stone pillars to Glenrinnes Lodge.

Admission: £10.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer's Research UK 60%