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Total of 45 openings.
Willowhill

Willowhill

Forgan, Newport-on-Tay DD6 8RA
Eric Wright and Sally Lorimore
**Special event - Hellebore Opening** Sunday/Monday, 15/16 March, 1pm - 4pm (2026)
c6
T:01382 542890 willowhillfife@btinternet.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. 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. Visit in March for over 200 hellebores, May for late spring bulbs and flowers, June and July for roses and high summer colour and August for late summer colour. Visitors are welcome to bring their own refreshments and picnic in the garden. A season ticket for all these dates, and by arrangement (available at the garden or online) is £25 and admits the ticket holder plus guest.

Directions: 1½ 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%
Burgie Arboretum

Burgie Arboretum

Between Forres and Elgin IV36 2QU
Hamish Lochore
Open daily, 8am - 5pm (2026)
b7
T:01343 850231 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%
Oldtown of Leys Garden

Oldtown of Leys Garden

Inverness IV2 6AE
David and Anne Sutherland
1 January - 31 March, 1 April - 31 October (not Thursday & Friday) & 1 November - 31 December, 8am - 8pm (2026)
467
T:01463 238238 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%
Angus's Garden, Barguillean

Angus's Garden, Barguillean

Taynuilt PA35 1HY
The Josephine Marshall Trust
Open daily, 9am - dusk (2026)
7k
T:01866 822333 info@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%
West Kilbride Community Gardens

West Kilbride Community Gardens

c/o The Barony Centre 50 Main Street West Kilbride KA23 9AR
West Kilbride Gardeners
Open daily, dawn to dusk. The village is always open but the best days to visit are Thursday to Saturday and there are 4 cafes serving refreshments. If you wish to donate, please buy a brochure from the Barony Arts Centre (priced at £5). (2026)
234679
WKgreengym@gmail.com
Our green spaces grow from one end of the village to the other. From the range of perennials and bulbs in the Meadowfoot triangle, past the colourful station beds to the stunning wallflowers and dahlias at the Library triangle. In between, we have the sensory Catlinn, the relaxing Old Man's Rest and the Boyd Orr where his work is celebrated in growing food, fruit and flowers. Pass by our flower beds when you go into the Barony Arts Centre to buy your booklet 'The Community Gardens of West Kilbride'. The Centre is open 10am - 4pm Monday to Saturday. Wander through the Kirktonhall Glen and visit our meadow and community orchard. Cross Gilmour's Lane and wind your way back through Starling Woods with its fairy doors amongst the trees.

Directions: All our gardens are within walking distance of the village centre. There is a regular train service from Glasgow Central to Largs, stopping at West Kilbride. The Stagecoach 585 bus runs regularly between Ayr and Largs, stopping in West Kilbride.

Admission: by donation
Charities: The Ayrshire Hospice 60%
Ardkinglas Woodland Garden

Ardkinglas Woodland Garden

Cairndow PA26 8BG
Ardkinglas Estate
Open daily, dawn - dusk (2026)
6ed7k
T:01499 600261
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.
Champion Trees: The mightiest conifer in Europe and others.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Raasay Walled Garden

Raasay Walled Garden

Isle of Raasay IV40 8PB
Raasay Community
Open daily, dawn - dusk (2026)
c67
T:07939 106426 raasaywalledgarden@gmail.com. Also on Facebook and Instagram
Just a short 10-minute walk from the Raasay Ferry Terminal, tucked behind historic Raasay House, lies the beautifully restored Raasay Walled Garden - a Category A listed, community owned treasure with a rich history. Visited by Boswell and Johnson in 1773, the garden fell into disrepair before being brought back to life through community effort. Since restoration began in 2013 the 1.43 acre garden has flourished once again. It now provides fresh vegetables, fruit, salad, herbs and cut flowers for both residents and visitors. Explore its orchard, rose beds, polytunnels, fruit cage, and wildflower areas buzzing with pollinators - or simply relax on one of the many benches and enjoy the peace and views. The summer months (June to August) bring the garden into full colour, while May to September is the peak harvest season and community events take place throughout the year - check our Facebook page for the latest updates. Facilities include a composting toilet for visitors' use and the garden is open and welcoming, though not always staffed - please contact us if you'd like further details.

Directions: Take the Calmac Ferry from Sconser (Isle of Skye) - a scenic 20 minute journey. The garden is an easy stroll from the Raasay terminal and there's much more to discover on foot once you arrive. Cars can also cross.

Admission: by donation
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Ardmaddy Castle

Ardmaddy Castle

by Oban PA34 4QY
Mr and Mrs Archie Struthers
Open daily, 9am - 5pm (2026)
c57k
T:01852 300353 minette@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 restructuring of the kitchen garden.

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: £7.00, children free
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Cambo Gardens

Cambo Gardens

Kingsbarns KY16 8QD
Trustees of Cambo Heritage Trust
Open daily, 10am - 5pm (2026)
b3c5ea7
T:01333 451040 hello@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
Achnacloich

Achnacloich

Connel, Oban PA37 1PR
Mr T M Nelson
Open daily (Saturday only), 10am - 4pm (2026)
6dk
T:01631 710223 or Gardener David Field 07929 336217 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 colour.

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%
The Japanese Garden at Cowden

The Japanese Garden at Cowden

Upper Hillfoot Road, Dollar, Clackmannanshire FK14 7PL
Cowden SCIO
Open daily (Wednesday to Monday, 10:30 - 5pm during summer) and (Wednesday to Sunday 10:30 - 4pm during winter). The garden will be closed for two weeks over Christmas and New Year. Please check the garden's website for details. (2026)
36d
sales@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.

Directions: The entrance to the garden is from the Upper Hillfoot 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

Mellerstain House and Gardens, Gordon TD3 6LG
Gill Harrop, Administrator
Open daily, 11am - 5pm (2026)
b67
T:01573 410225 enquiries@mellerstain.com
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: details can be found on the garden's website
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Floors Castle

Floors Castle

Kelso TD5 7RN
The Duke of Roxburghe
The Walled Garden, Terrace Cafe and Apple Shed Giftshop & Pantry are open 7 days a week, year round. (2026)
36d7
T:01573 223333
Discover some of the finest Victorian style herbaceous borders, designed to reflect the changing seasons. The spring, summer, and hot borders brim with colour and character. Nearby, the kitchen garden and elegant glasshouses provide fresh produce and seasonal fruit and vegetables. The formal millennium parterre, planted with heritage apple trees, showcases traditional pruning techniques, completing a garden experience rich in beauty, history, and inspiration.

Directions: Floors Castle Walled Garden, Kelso, TD5 7RN

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Aldouran Wetland Garden

Aldouran Wetland Garden

Glen Road, Leswalt DG9 0LJ
The Volunteers at Aldouran Wetland Garden
Open daily, 2pm - 5pm (2026)
457
Aldouran Glen, which means 'Glen of the Otter', is a unique blend of colourful community gardens, a natural water area with reed beds and a wild woodland with all-access trails, fairy doors and fantasy artwork including a nine foot Gruffalo. Picnic and toilet facilities. Small groups welcome.

Directions: The garden lies off Glen Road on the outskirts of the village of Leswalt, three miles from Stranraer on the A718. It is well signposted and can also be accessed by bus from Stranraer, being a stop on the Stranraer-Kirkcolm service.

Admission: by donation
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Glenwhan Gardens & Arboretum

Glenwhan Gardens & Arboretum

Dunragit, by Stranraer DG9 8PH
Tessa and Ian Knott Sinclair
Open daily, 2pm - 5pm. Snowdrops and Winter Walks 25 January - 11 March. Admission details can be found on the garden's website, payable at the garden entrance. Tearoom and locally grown plants for sale. (2026)
b3c6d7
T:07787 990702
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.'

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
Delvine

Delvine

Murthly PH1 4LD
Mr David Gemmell
3 January - 21 December, dawn - dusk (2026)
7
T:07748 207647 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. Park at house, pay at yellow Honesty Box and walk down.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Army Benevolent Fund 60%
Inverness Botanic Gardens

Inverness Botanic Gardens

Bught Lane, Inverness IV3 5SS
Pamela Sutherland
3 January - 22 December, 9:30am - 4pm (2026)
b3c846
T:01463 701019 inverness.botanics@highlifehighland.com
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! We are a charity and so 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

Gordon Castle Walled Garden

Fochabers, Moray IV32 7PQ
Angus and Zara Gordon Lennox
3 January - 31 December, please check garden website for seasonal opening times. (2026)
3c5d7
T:01343 612317 info@gordoncastlescotland.com
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 on-site 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.

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

Abriachan Garden Nursery

Loch Ness Side IV3 8LA
Mr and Mrs Davidson
1 February - 30 November, 9am - 7pm (2026)
bc467
T:01463 861232 info@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%
Abbotsford

Abbotsford

Melrose TD6 9BQ
The Abbotsford Trust
1 March - 31 March 10am - 4pm, 1 April - 31 October 10am - 5pm & 1 November - 31 December 10am - 4pm (2026)
3c457k
T:01896 752043 enquiries@scottsabbotsford.co.uk
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
Poyntzfield Herb Nursery

Poyntzfield Herb Nursery

Black Isle, by Dingwall IV7 8LX
Finlay Ross
1 March - 30 September (not Wednesday), 10am - 5pm (2026)
c459
info@poyntzfieldherbs.co.uk
Set in a one-acre Victorian walled garden, the herb garden and nursery grow over 400 varieties of herbs which have culinary, medicinal or aromatic qualities. Managed organically, the herbs range from familiar favourites to rare exotics as well as native plants with herbal properties. 2026 marks 50 years of growing herbs at Poyntzfield. Visit the garden early March to see our snowdrops.

Directions: Located on the north side of the Black Isle, six miles west of Cromarty, off the B9163 between Jemimaville and Balblair. Follow the signage for Poyntzfield and the herb nursery parking is at the top of the drive.

Admission: by donation
Charities: Feis Rois Limited 60%
Kinlochlaich Walled Garden

Kinlochlaich Walled Garden

Appin PA38 4BD
Miss F M M Hutchison
3 March - 31 October, 10am - 4pm (2026)
c45k
T:07881 525754 fionakinlochlaich@gmail.com
Octagonal walled garden incorporating a large Nursery Garden Centre with a huge variety of plants growing and for sale. The bluebell walk and woodland garden are in the process of further development. 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, 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 Castle

Braco FK15 9LA
Mr and Mrs M van Ballegooijen
12 March - 31 October, 10am - 5pm (2026)
5d
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.

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%
Craichlaw

Craichlaw

Kirkcowan, Newton Stewart DG8 0DQ
Mr and Mrs Andrew Gladstone
By arrangement between Open by arrangement 1 January - 31 December. Snowdrops and Winter Walks February - mid-March. Admission £5.00, children free. (2026)
b246
T:01671 830208 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
Glenapp Castle

Glenapp Castle

Ballantrae, Girvan KA26 0NZ
Mr Paul Szkiler
By arrangement (2026)
6ed7
T:01465 831212 info@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

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
Barholm Castle

Barholm Castle

Gatehouse of Fleet DG7 2EZ
Drs John and Janet Brennan
By arrangement (2026)
b467
T:01557 840327 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%
Ruthven House

Ruthven House

near Coldstream TD12 4JU
Keith and Karen Fountain
By arrangement between 1 January - 11 September (2026)
2c67
T:01890 840680 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.

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%
Laundry Cottage

Laundry Cottage

Culdrain, Gartly, Huntly AB54 4PY
Judith McPhun
By arrangement between 1 January - 31 December, admission £5.00, children free. Snowdrops during February and March. Groups of up to 12 welcome. (2026)
b046
T:01466 720768 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%
The Limes

The Limes

Kirkcudbright DG6 4XD
David and Carolyn McHale
By arrangement (2026)
6
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 a large productive vegetable garden. The McHales like to grow most of their plants from seed obtained through various international seed exchanges. 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 a species is in flower in almost every month of the year. The garden has featured on the BBC Beechgrove Garden, in Garden Answers and Scottish Field.

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%
Stockarton

Stockarton

Kirkcudbright DG6 4XS
Lt Col and Mrs Richard Cliff
By arrangement (2026)
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%
Kevock Garden

Kevock Garden

16 Kevock Road, Lasswade EH18 1HT
David and Stella Rankin
By arrangement between 1 January - 29 December (2026)
4
stella@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%
Kilchoan Gardens

Kilchoan Gardens

Kilmelford PA34 4XD
Kilchoan Estate/ Zsolt Fodor (Head Gardener)
By arrangement (2026)
67
T:07588 404238 Zsolt@kilchoanestate.co.uk
An eclectic private garden, open on specific dates and year-round by appointment.
Kilchoan Gardens consist of a mix of ornamental beds with less formal areas for regenerative gardening. The main areas include an old walled garden renovated with a glasshouse for tender species, and traditional vegetable production; a Himalayan garden with many species of Asiatic origin; an arboretum with plants of high conservation value, including trees through the International Conifer Conservation Programme, and new woodland areas designed for flora and fauna. The more formal gardens consist of herbaceous borders, topiary and various artwork dotted around the paths and planting areas.
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: £7.00, children free
Charities: The Kilchoan Melfort Trust 30% & Breast Cancer Now 30%
Dawson's Garden

Dawson's Garden

The Old Post Office, Kilmany KY15 4PT
Liz Murray
By arrangement between 5 January - 20 December (2026)
45e
T:07531 571045 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 grapevine 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: MS Therapy Centre (Tayside) Limited 60%
Harthill

Harthill

Reediehill Farm, Auchtermuchty KY14 7HS
Nichola and John Fletcher
By arrangement between 5 January - 31 October (2026)
67
T:01337 828369 info@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. Find using what3words/meaty.look.storage

Admission: by donation
Charities: TST: The Tim Stead Trust 60%
Kilbryde Castle

Kilbryde Castle

Dunblane FK15 9NF
Sir James and Lady Campbell
By arrangement between 1 February - 15 March (2026)
b67
T:01786 824897 carolaandjames@googlemail.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) are found in the woodland garden. There are glorious snowdrops, spring bulbs, and autumn colour provided by clematis and acers. Within the wildflower meadow the meconopsis are happily spreading.

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: £6.00, children free
Charities: Leighton Library Trust 60%
Pond Cottage Garden

Pond Cottage Garden

The Pond, Milnathort KY13 0SD
Fay Young and Ray Perman
By arrangement between 1 February - 15 December (2026)
67
T:07767 407396 fay@fayyoung.org
Wild woodland and wetland plantings adapting to climate change as we learn from resilient plants and wildlife. Flowers, fruits, seeds and nuts support birds, bats, bees, butterflies, moths, red squirrels and tiny unknowns. Woodland paths wind through snowdrops, daffodils, bluebells, foxgloves and ferns. Mature beeches and oaks mark boundaries of a former Victorian estate. Mosses soften log piles, stone shapes and a developing stumpery. Since the mid-1990s we have rebuilt and retrofitted the old farm cottage with external insulation and renewable energy. Now, working on new Himalayan planting beside native Scottish flowers 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 ½ mile, the gate to Pond Cottage is on the right after a field opening.

Admission: £5.50, children free
Charities: CHAS 60%
Thorntree

Thorntree

Arnprior FK8 3EY
Mark and Carol Seymour
By arrangement between 1 February - 15 March (2026)
b6
T:01786 870710 carolseymour666@gmail.com
This cottage garden has evolved from growing dried flowers into triangle beds to meander through with more and more plants filling in the gaps. There are amazing views from Aberfoyle and the hills beyond to Doune. Last year, 2025, was a year of growth and everything did do exceptionally well, with little frost to impede plants, so lots had to be divided, therefore a good plant stall will be available. The garden is kept with the aid of WRAGs trainees - a new trainee started in November to help with all the compost spreading!

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Forth Driving Group RDA SCIO 30% & WFGA: (WRAGS) 30%
Kirkton Manor House

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn
By arrangement between 11 February - 15 July (2026)
7
T:01721 740220 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
Bruckhills Croft

Bruckhills Croft

Rothienorman, Inverurie AB51 8YB
Paul and Helen Rushton
By arrangement between 14 February - 15 March (2026)
b2c6a
T:01651 821596 helenrushton1@aol.com
An informal country cottage garden extending to three-quarters of an acre with a further acre as wildflower meadow and pond. There are several distinct areas which include a white border, a butterfly alley, kitchen garden with Polycrub, greenhouse and fruit cage, an orchard, and a blue and yellow border. Relax on one of the many seats in the garden and soak up the atmosphere.
National Plant Collection: Galanthus (snowdrops), awarded in 2021.

Directions: From Rothienorman take the B9001 north for two-and-a-half miles. On the S-bend turn left. When you reach the Bruckhills Farm roadend, signs will direct you to our new access road.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: SMG 60%
Luckie Harg's

Luckie Harg's

Anwoth, Gatehouse of Fleet, Castle Douglas DG7 2EF
Drs Carole and Ian Bainbridge
By arrangement between 1 March - 30 September (2026)
467
T:01557 814141 luckiehargs@btinternet.com
A 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, woodland plants and shrubs and small trees. There is a rock garden, several modern crevice gardens, troughs, a large alpine house and bulb frame. There are also boulder, scree and stumpery beds, a pond and a woodland area. Special plants include trilliums, roscoeas and cardiocrinum. 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

3 Millhall

Shore Road, Kirkcudbright DG6 4TQ
Mr Alan Shamash
By arrangement between 1 March - 31 October (2026)
7
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, leptospermums, olearias, myrtles, 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

Tal-y-Fan

Laurieston Road, Gatehouse of Fleet, Kirkcudbrightshire DG7 2BE
Janet & Sarah Wood
By arrangement between 1 March - 30 September (2026)
T:01557 815287 woodhill2uk@yahoo.co.uk
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, renewed compost bins and the car park, with its collection of pots and troughs. Visit the front lawn, with its well-stocked beds and the newly developed area of The Glade 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
Knock Newhouse

Knock Newhouse

Lochgair PA31 8RZ
Mrs Hew Service
By arrangement between 1 March - 30 September, 11am - 4pm. Please pre-book group visits and teas. (2026)
2467
T:01546 886628 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, camellia, 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) 30% & Cancer Research UK 30%
Willowhill

Willowhill

Forgan, Newport-on-Tay DD6 8RA
Eric Wright and Sally Lorimore
By arrangement between 7 March - 31 August (2026)
6
T:01382 542890 willowhillfife@btinternet.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. 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. Visit in March for over 200 hellebores, May for late spring bulbs and flowers, June and July for roses and high summer colour and August for late summer colour. Visitors are welcome to bring their own refreshments and picnic in the garden. A season ticket for all these dates, and by arrangement (available at the garden or online) is £25 and admits the ticket holder plus guest.

Directions: 1½ 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%
Newmill

Newmill

The Steading, Newmill PH10 6SG
Jean and Dave Trudgill
By arrangement between 15 March - 22 March (2026)
067k
T:01250 884263 davetrudgill@googlemail.com
Newmill is a wildflower and wildlife haven. There are secluded paths that extend 800m by ponds and through woodland along the millrace and the north side of the Lunan Burn. In mid-March there are swathes of wild daffodils and by May, banks of bluebells and primroses. There is a half-acre wildflower meadow covered with cowslips and two colourful gardens to visit. If you are lucky and we have had a warm spring, the first of our 17 species of wild orchid may just be coming into flower.

Directions: Three miles west of Blairgowrie on the south side of the A923 in the direction of Dunkeld. We are 600 metres west of the Kinloch Hotel. Take the track on the left, just after a mobile phone mast and a breeze-block wall.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Unicef 60%