Garden Openings

The Secret Garden

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

1 May - 1 September (Wednesday & Saturday), 10am - 4pm (2026)

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: Kilmoluag Liosmor 60%

Ilha de Deus

Tiroran, Isle of Mull PA69 6ET
John Innes

Sunday 3 May, Sunday 7 June, Sunday 5 July & Sunday 2 August, 2pm - 5pm (2026)

2c7

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%

The Sanctuary

25b Bellevue Road, Ayr KA7 2SA
Pattie Kewney

3 - 28 June, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays only, 2 - 5pm. Pre-booking of tickets is essential as spaces are limited to 14 adults per day. (2026)

2469

E:drumkewney@talk21.com

A tranquil and secluded suburban garden created in August 2024. Landscaping features include interlacing circles and curves, archways, arbours, a wildlife pond, a Victorian-style greenhouse, and a lazy fountain. Indian sandstone flagstones, quartz gravel, clay rolltop edging, terracotta pots, sets and tiles offer a warm colour palette. Tulips, magnolias, camellias, cornus and peonies provide early seasonal interest; vibrant mixed borders are planted with fragrant standard, shrub, rambling and climbing roses. On the circular lawn is an ancient olive tree bordered by espalier-trained, dwarf and potted patio fruit trees. Peaches, nectarines, figs, oranges and kumquats are grown in the greenhouse. Eco measures include a rainwater reservoir, a compost tumbler to recycle garden and kitchen waste, and seaweed and manure to fortify the free-draining soil.

Directions: Park on Bellevue Road and follow signage via wrought iron gate to garden at rear, or walk 15 minutes from Ayr train and bus stations.

Admission: £10.00, children free

Charities: Ayrshire & Arran Health Board Endowment Funds: Alzheimer's Unit, Marchburn Ward 60%

Cally Biodiversity Gardens

Cally Avenue, Gatehouse of Fleet DG7 2DJ
Kevin Hughes

Saturday 6 June & Sunday 6 September, 10am - 5pm (2026)

2c57

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: Scottish Wildlife Trust Ltd 60%

Crummieholm and Loans Village Gardens

Loans, Troon KA10 7EX
The Garden Owners of Crummieholm and Loans Village

Saturday 6 June, 12-4pm. (2026)

2c49

Crummieholm and Loans Village Gardens (NEW) Crummieholm, Loans, Troon KA10 7EX (Mr and Mrs Bruce): Crummieholm was originally a farm, dating back to the 18th century. A formal front garden was created in the 1970s. The adjacent farmland was developed for housing apart from one area which was left to nature for over 30 years. Over the past 10 years, the current owners have attempted to transform this neglected and overgrown field into a tranquil haven for trees, shrubs, flowers and wildlife. A network of paths leads round the sloping, south facing site, bounded by a small burn. It continues to be a work in progress.

In addition to Crummieholm, several other village gardens will also be opening, offering a varied range of sizes and styles from cottage gardens to 'exotic pots'. The village of Loans has historical connections with Robert the Bruce and its Main Street is part of the Smugglers' Trail from Troon to Dundonald.

Directions: The village of Loans lies two miles east of Troon and also accessible from the A78. Access to Crummieholm from Main Street will be signposted. Parking is available at the camping site on Troon Road. Stagecoach buses nos 10 and 14 stop in Main Street.

Admission: £8.00, children free

Charities: Loans Community Centre Ltd 60%

Willowhill

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

Saturday 6 June, Monday 8 June, Saturday 13 June & Monday 15 June, 1pm - 5pm (2026)

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. 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%

Arbuthnott House Gardens

Arbuthnott House, Laurencekirk AB30 1PA
Chris and Emily Arbuthnott

Saturday 6 June, 1pm - 4pm (2026)

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 B967 Inverbervie to Fordoun. 3 miles off the A90.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Horatio's Garden 60%

Fowlis Wester Open Gardens

Fowlis Wester Village Hall, Fowlis Wester, Crieff PH7 3NL
The Gardeners of Fowlis Wester, contact Audrey McColl

Saturday 6 June, 1pm - 5pm (2026)

2c469

T:07717220972

An eclectic collection of large and small gardens in this charming village. Fowlis Wester boasts an enchanting variety of cottage and informal gardens with an emphasis on being wildlife friendly. Gardens include herbaceous borders, alpines, roses, mature trees, productive vegetable gardens and scenic views. All gardens are within easy walking distance. The village includes a beautiful 13th century church with Pictish stones and will be open to look round.

Directions: From Perth follow the A85 towards Crieff and turn off to the right signed Fowlis Wester, approximately 5 miles before Crieff. Follow this road and there is ample parking at the village hall or in the square. Bus 15A stops at the road end.

Admission: £8.00, children free

Charities: Trellis 60%

Learmonth Place Garden

9 Learmonth Place EH4 1AX
Libby Webb

Saturday & Sunday, 6 & 7 June, 2pm - 5pm. Please pre-book your timeslot to guarantee your visit to the garden. If you're unable to attend but would like to support the opening by making a donation, you may do so via the Buy Tickets link below. (2026)

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W:https://www.instagram.com/docleaves/?hl=en-gb

A unique reimagining of a city-centre, mid-terrace, walled garden. The garden is only 7 x 14 metres, but contains two ponds, a pergola and is accessed by garden paths through arches. The lawn has been lifted entirely and the space is tightly planted with trees and mainly perennial plants. The effect of the garden is of a city centre woodland/cottage garden, which gives the illusion of being bigger than it is by blurring the sandstone wall boundaries.

Directions: Buses 19, 22, 24, 29, 36, 37, 43, 113 stop nearby. Local on-street parking is likely to be available at weekends.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: CHAS 40% & The Woodland Trust Scotland 20%

Cloan

by Auchterarder PH3 1PP
Neil Mitchison

Sunday 7 June, 10am - 5pm (2026)

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 60%

Quercus Garden Plants

Whitmuir Farm, West Linton EH46 7BB
Rona Dodds

Sunday 7 June, 10am - 5pm (2026)

c7

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 hardy, 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, woodland garden and all the other inspirational smaller borders. 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%

Marcus Walled Garden

Marcus House, Finavon, Forfar DD8 3QH
James and Veronica Baillie

Sunday 7 June, 12pm - 5pm (2026)

2579

A charming walled garden surrounded by mature woodland near to River South Esk. The garden has gravel paths with box hedges and pleached limes on arched frames. Consisting of herbaceous borders, a topiary area with a yew secret square, a pleached hornbeam area, and Japanese area with a bridge next to a giant Wellingtonia. There is a fuchsia border outside the walls with a path and steps leading down to the river, where there is a thatched octagonal folly with bench seating and carved Latin inscriptions. A walk along the river bank brings you to the front of the house where some rowan trees give views of a stone obelisk.

Directions: From Dundee head north on the A90 signposted Forfar and Aberdeen. Continue north past Forfar, past Peggy Scott's diner (approx 7 miles north of Forfar on A90) and past the agricultural machinery depot. At this point you should cross into the right hand lane as the entrance to Marcus is marked by a stone walled entrance and black iron gates on the south side of the A90. From Aberdeen head south on the A90 past Brechin and continue south for approx. 6 miles, where you will reach the stone-walled entrance to Marcus on your left.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 60%

Kirkside of Lochty

Menmuir, by Brechin DD9 6RY
Ed and Fi Troughton

Sunday 7 June, 12pm - 5pm (2026)

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This garden, designed by renowned local plantswoman Irene Mackie over 20 years ago, is now nurtured by the current owners. There are four distinct areas each with their own character. Along the short drive and to the east of the house is a spring woodland full of bulbs, leading to the new gravel garden, a sheltered spot to enjoy late summer sunshine amongst the agapanthus and grasses. The hot, sunny courtyard parterre is full of herbaceous perennials with high summer interest and from there, one is drawn through the beech hedge into a wilder area of three island beds with mixed planting, and a meadow loved by wildlife and bees. More recently the garden has been enhanced by careful reduction in the perimeter tree canopy opening up the westerly views to grazings and allowing the pollarded willow hedge to be backlit by winter sun.

Directions: From the A90, take Careston/Fern/Menmuir turn just south of Brechin. Proceed towards Menmuir for about 2 miles. The garden is on the left behind beech hedge.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Seabeach

West Shore, Pittenweem KY10 2NU
Drs Amanda and Brad Wood

Sunday 7 June, Sunday 14 June, Sunday 21 June, Sunday 28 June, Sunday 5 July, Sunday 12 July, Sunday 19 July & Sunday 26 July, 1pm - 5pm (2026)

79

T:07765 617421 E:amanda@madandbrandy.co.uk

Seabeach’s coastal location offers spectacular views out over the Firth of Forth. Surprisingly sheltered, this one-acre site has been evolving since 2020, as we learn what survives in the wind, sea-spray and poor, stony soil. Formerly Pittenweem’s Gas Works, the garden now features irises, delphiniums, cottage garden borders, raised vegetable beds and formal planting. High stone walls attest to the site’s industrial past and excavated old bricks and stone have been incorporated into the new garden. Meandering hillside beds, planted in blue and white, are designed to mirror the sea and rocky skellies beyond. A large bank of cardoons, towering echiums and expansive hebe bushes are home to a host of birds, butterflies and bees. Although paths can be a little steep, lower areas of the garden are more accessible.

Directions: Pedestrian access is along West Shore. No car parking on site. There is a 3 minute walk from parking on either East Shore or the West Braes car park.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Parkinsons UK 30% & Prostate Cancer UK 30%

Smithycroft House

Pettinain ML11 8SS
Susan Waldron

Sunday 7 June & Sunday 23 August, 1pm - 4:30pm (2026)

1c69

E:swgarden@pm.me

Come visit a garden where the wildlife is given as much space as the glorious mass of nectar-rich perennials, where herbicides and pesticides are banned, a hosepipe has never been used, only homemade compost is used to improve the soil and a small flock of chickens are allowed free-range. The kitchen garden comprises of a large vegetable plot, two greenhouses, fruit bushes and trees. Beech hedging has been planted to create a hidden and sheltered garden within the garden. There is a sizeable pond and a small but very productive orchard which is home to beehives. The front of the house is clothed with a very pleasing ever-changing tapestry of plants, many of which are self-seeded. Susan will be happy to tell you which of these self-seeders to avoid and Fin will talk to you for hours about his collection of chilli plants.

Directions: Upper Pettinain can be found off the A73 South of Hyndford bridge or via Carstairs Junction over the Clyde bridge. what3words/emperor.volunteered.simulates

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 60%

Castle Kennedy Gardens

Stranraer DG9 8SJ
The Earl and Countess of Stair

Sunday 7 June, 2pm - 5pm (2026)

346e7

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

Mill of Forneth

Forneth, Blairgowrie PH10 6SP
Mr and Mrs Graham Wood

Sunday 7 June, 2pm - 4pm (2026)

2c6

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%

Seabank

The Merse, Rockcliffe DG5 4QH
Julian and Theodora Stanning

Sunday 7 June, 2pm - 5pm (2026)

1c6

T:01556 630244

This one-and-a-half-acre garden extends to the high water mark with westerly views across a wildflower meadow to the Urr Estuary, Rough Island and beyond to Screel. The house is flanked by raised beds, and overlooks a cottage-style garden; peripheral plantings of mixed shrubs and perennials are interspersed with spring bulbs and summer annuals for all-year-round interest. There is a greenhouse with a range of succulents and tender plants. To the rear of the property is a new walled garden stocked with top and soft fruit, perennial vegetables (sea kale, asparagus and globe artichokes), a range of annual vegetables and flower borders. A further greenhouse is used for tomatoes and peppers, and apricots growing against the back wall. A plantswoman’s garden with a range of interesting and unusual plants.

Directions: Park in the public car park at Rockcliffe. Walk down the road about 50 yards towards the sea and turn left along The Merse, a private road. Seabank is the sixth house on the left.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie: DG5 Group 60%

Norton House

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

Sunday 7 June, 2pm - 5pm. If you're unable to attend but would like to support the opening, please click on the 'buy tickets' link then follow the steps to make a donation. Thank you. (2026)

2c867

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 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 FIRST 60%

Thorntree

Arnprior FK8 3EY
Mark and Carol Seymour

Sunday 7 June, 2pm - 5pm (2026)

2c6

T:01786 870710 E:carolseymour666@gmail.com

W:www.thorntreebarn.co.uk

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%

Dean Gardens

Edinburgh EH4 1QE
Dean Gardens Management Committee

Sunday 7 June, 2pm - 5pm (2026)

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

Glenernie

Glenernie House, Dunphail, Moray IV36 2QH
Robert and Fiona Laing

Sunday 7 June, 2pm - 5pm (2026)

26

T:01309 611203 E:robert@glenernie.co.uk

A tranquil, landscaped woodland garden set in the Dorbach river valley with garden, woodland and river walks. The garden, which includes some ornamental ponds, has been created over the last forty years and is planted with azaleas, rhododendrons, dogwoods and other shrubs set amongst both mature and younger specimen trees.

Directions: Access is from the A940 Forres to Grantown on Spey road approximately ten miles south of Forres. Half-a-mile south of Edinkillie church on the right. What3words location: ///materials.kindness.inspected

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Prostate Cancer UK 60%

Geilston Garden

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

Sunday 7 June, 2pm - 5pm (2026)

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

Foulis Castle

Foulis Castle Garden, Evanton IV16 9UX

Sunday 7 June, 2pm - 5pm (2026)

24679

Nineteen miles north of Inverness, Foulis Castle lies 230 feet above the Cromarty Firth, overlooking the Black Isle. An arboretum is contained within the old kitchen garden, with giant rhododendrons and azaleas in the large grassed areas. Within the courtyard is a garden planted by Eleanor Munro in the 1980s with colour for all seasons, creating a tranquil atmosphere within this sheltered microclimate. The grounds cover roughly eight acres with ponds, a burn and large swathes of daffodils, on pebbled gravel paths and grass. Foulis Castle, a Grade 1 listed Georgian building, was built on the ruins of a much earlier 14th century castle and is the home to Clan Munro. The old coach road, which passed through the courtyard was diverted in the early 1800s, but still holds some of its ancient charm where it passes through the grounds.

Directions: On the B817, off the A9 to Evanton, before the village turn left into Drummond Road, then left at next T junction. The castle is on the right after approx 1.5 miles. Follow the signage to parking on the day. Take a bus to Evanton, then walk two miles to Foulis Castle.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support 60%

Glenae

Amisfield DG1 3NZ
Victoria and Charlie Rotheroe

Sunday 7 June, 2pm - 5pm (2026)

0c57

E:tottsrotheroe@gmail.com

A beautiful, well-established walled garden, well stocked with interesting plants. Four lawns are surrounded by colourful herbaceous borders and apple trees. There is a lovely sunken garden with a tranquil water feature and the pink poppies (Mrs Perry) featured throughout the garden are a stunning sight in June.

Visitors may also walk through a newly-cleared woodland, enjoying the mature trees and peaceful atmosphere.

Directions: One and-a-half miles north of Amisfield on the A701. Turn left to Duncow and Auldgirth and one mile on right.

Admission: by donation

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Burgie Arboretum

Between Forres and Elgin IV36 2QU
Hamish Lochore

Open daily, 8am - 5pm (2026)

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%

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 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%

Angus's Garden, Barguillean

Taynuilt PA35 1HY
The Josephine Marshall Trust

Open daily, 9am - dusk (2026)

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%

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)

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E:WKgreengym@gmail.com

W:https://crafttownscotland.org

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

Cairndow PA26 8BG
Ardkinglas Estate

Open daily, dawn - dusk (2026)

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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.
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

Raasay Walled Garden

Isle of Raasay IV40 8PB
Raasay Community

Open daily, dawn - dusk (2026)

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T:07939 106426 E:raasaywalledgarden@gmail.com. Also on Facebook and Instagram

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

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

by Oban PA34 4QY
Mr and Mrs Archie Struthers

Open daily, 9am - 5pm (2026)

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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 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

Kingsbarns KY16 8QD
Trustees of Cambo Heritage Trust

Open daily, 10am - 5pm (2026)

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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

Achnacloich

Connel, Oban PA37 1PR
Mr T M Nelson

Open daily (Saturday only), 10am - 4pm (2026)

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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 colour.

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%

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)

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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.

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

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

Open daily, 11am - 5pm (2026)

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T:01573 410225 E:enquiries@mellerstain.com

W:www.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: Mellerstain Trust 60%

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)

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T:01573 223333

W:www.floorscastle.com

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.

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

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

Glen Road, Leswalt DG9 0LJ
The Volunteers at Aldouran Wetland Garden

Open daily, 2pm - 5pm (2026)

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W:aldouran.org

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

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)

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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

Delvine

Murthly PH1 4LD
Mr David Gemmell

3 January - 21 December, dawn - dusk (2026)

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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. Park at house, pay at yellow Honesty Box and walk down. what3words/then.begun.elect

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Army Benevolent Fund 60%

Inverness Botanic Gardens

Bught Lane, Inverness IV3 5SS
Pamela Sutherland

3 January - 22 December, 9:30am - 4pm (2026)

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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! 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

Fochabers, Moray IV32 7PQ
Angus and Zara Gordon Lennox

3 January - 31 December, please check garden website for seasonal opening times. (2026)

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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 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.

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 (2026)

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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%

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)

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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

Poyntzfield Herb Nursery

Black Isle, by Dingwall IV7 8LX
Finlay Ross

1 March - 30 September (not Wednesday), 10am - 5pm (2026)

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E:info@poyntzfieldherbs.co.uk

W:www.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

Appin PA38 4BD
Miss F M M Hutchison

3 March - 31 October, 10am - 4pm (2026)

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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. 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 FK15 9LA
Mr and Mrs M van Ballegooijen

12 March - 31 October, 10am - 5pm (2026)

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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%

Glenarn

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

21 March - 21 September, dawn - dusk (2026)

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T:01436 820493 E:masthome@btinternet.com

W:www.glenarn.com

43 years ago, we first saw Glenarn, when the magnolias were in bloom, and started to restore the 12 acre garden. 99 years ago, the Gibson family arrived and created the West Coast garden that we see today. 175 years ago, Andrew MacGeorge, the first owner, laid out the paths and planted the canopy of trees under which we still walk. It is these layers of history and plantings on a favoured site that give Glenarn its special character. It explains why Glenarn is more than a Spring garden, famous for its collection of rare rhododendrons; why it has such a diverse collection of plants and champion trees (notably Plagianthus regius) that give season-long interest and colour. 87 years ago, Glenarn opened under Scotland's Garden Scheme. We continue to welcome visitors, and volunteers.

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: Rhu & Shandon Community Centre 60%

Inveraray Castle Gardens

Inveraray PA32 8XF
The Duke and Duchess of Argyll

26 March - 30 September 10am - 5pm & 1 October - 26 October 10am - 4pm (2026)

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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: £12.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Crinan Hotel Garden

Crinan PA31 8SR
Mrs N Ryan

29 March - 31 October, dawn - dusk (2026)

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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 30 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 (2026)

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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%

Attadale

Strathcarron IV54 8YX
Joanna Macpherson

1 April - 31 October, 10am - 5pm (2026)

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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: £12.50, children free

Charities: Highland Hospice 60%

Blair Castle Gardens

Blair Atholl PH18 5TL
Blair Charitable Trust

1 April - 30 October, 10am - 5pm (2026)

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T:01796 481207 E:bookings@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

Dunvegan Castle and Gardens

Isle of Skye IV55 8WF
Hugh MacLeod of Macleod

1 April - 15 October, 10am - 5:30pm (2026)

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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 and 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

Pitmuies Gardens

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

1 April - 30 September, 10am - 5pm (2026)

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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 A932 east for 7 miles; gardens signposted on the right. From Brechin take A933 south to Friockheim and turn right onto A932; gardens signposted on the left after 1½ miles.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Tinnisburn Plants

Upper Millsteads, Canonbie DG14 0RY
Helen Knowles

Open regularly 1 April - 30 August (Friday, Saturday & Sunday), 10am - 4pm. Admission £5.00, children free. (2026)

3ca7

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

W:tinnisburn.co.uk

Developed over the last 39 years, this one-acre, plantswoman'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) and Meconopsis (George Sherriff Group & related M.gakyidinia)

Directions: Take the B6357 north from Canonbie. At Harelaw turn left onto the B6318 and after one 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% & Eden Valley Hospice 30%

Monteviot

Jedburgh TD8 6UQ
The Marchioness of Lothian

1 April - 31 October, 12pm - 5pm (2026)

5d

T:01835 862201

W:www.monteviot.com

A series of nine juxtaposing spaces including the Garden of Persistent Imagination: an eclectic mixture of natural stone structures and living art - a tribute to 20th century Art Nouveau and Surrealism. The older gardens include the terraced Rose Garden which is Victorian, and the River Garden redesigned in the 1960s by Percy Cane, this slopes down through mixed borders towards the river Teviot below.

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: £7.50, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Glassmount House

by Kirkcaldy KY2 5UT
Peter, James and Irene Thomson

1 April - 30 September, 2pm - 5pm (2026)

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%

Craigieburn House

by Moffat DG10 9LF
Janet and Peter McGowan

5 April - 31 October, 10:30am - 6pm (2026)

7

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: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Bughtrig

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

1 May - 30 September, 9am - 4:30pm (2026)

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: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Ascog Hall Garden and Fernery

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

1 May - 31 July, 10am - 5pm (2026)

c47

T: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: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Leathad Ard

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

1 May - 30 September (not Sunday), 10am - 6pm (2026)

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%

Dunninald Castle

Montrose DD10 9TD
The Stansfeld family

1 May - 31 August (Monday, Tuesday & Sunday), 1pm - 5pm (2026)

6d7

T:01674 672031 E:estateoffice@dunninald.com

W:www.dunninald.com

We welcome visitors to explore 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 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: 3 miles south of Montrose, 10 miles north of Arbroath, signposted from the A92.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Newliston

Kirkliston EH29 9EB
Mr and Mrs R C Maclachlan

6 May - 7 June (not Monday & Tuesday), 2pm - 6pm (2026)

6d7

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%

Balmeanach House

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

1 June - 12 August & 15 August - 30 September, 2pm - 5pm (2026)

7

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%

Nonavaar

Levenwick, Shetland ZE2 9HX
James B Thomason

1 June - 30 September, 2pm - 5pm (2026)

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%

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 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

Glenapp Castle

Ballantrae, Girvan KA26 0NZ
Mr Paul Szkiler

By arrangement (2026)

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

Barholm Castle

Gatehouse of Fleet DG7 2EZ
Drs John and Janet Brennan

By arrangement (2026)

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%

Ruthven House

near Coldstream TD12 4JU
Keith and Karen Fountain

By arrangement between 1 January - 11 September (2026)

2c67

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.

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

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 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%

The Limes

Kirkcudbright DG6 4XD
David and Carolyn McHale

By arrangement (2026)

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 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

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

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

By arrangement between 1 January - 29 December (2026)

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%

Kilchoan Gardens

Kilmelford PA34 4XD
Kilchoan Estate/ Zsolt Fodor (Head Gardener)

By arrangement (2026)

67

T:07588 404238 E: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

The Old Post Office, Kilmany KY15 4PT
Liz Murray

By arrangement between 5 January - 20 December (2026)

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 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

Reediehill Farm, Auchtermuchty KY14 7HS
Nichola and John Fletcher

By arrangement between 5 January - 31 October (2026)

67

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. Find using what3words/meaty.look.storage

Admission: by donation

Charities: TST: The Tim Stead Trust 60%

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 E:fay@fayyoung.org

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

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%

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn

By arrangement between 11 February - 15 July (2026)

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

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 E: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

Shore Road, Kirkcudbright DG6 4TQ
Mr Alan Shamash

By arrangement between 1 March - 31 October (2026)

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, 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

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

By arrangement between 1 March - 30 September (2026)

T:01557 815287 E: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

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 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, 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

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

By arrangement between 7 March - 31 August (2026)

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. 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%

Kilbryde Castle

Dunblane FK15 9NF
Sir James and Lady Campbell

By arrangement between 16 March - 30 September (2026)

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) 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%

The Carriage House

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

By arrangement between 28 March - 25 October (2026)

57

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

Set within the historic Blair estate 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%

Bay Cottage

Findhorn, Forres IV36 3YY
Margaret Kenley

By arrangement between 31 March - 31 July (Tuesday & Saturday) (2026)

467

E:margaret_kenley@btinternet.com

Bay Cottage is situated on the edge of Findhorn Bay with extensive sea views. The garden, almost one acre, has been developed over six years. The aim is to provide self-sufficiency in growing fruit and vegetables whilst encouraging wildlife. The area around the house has a bog garden, vegetable plots, fruit trees, lawns and flower beds. A second area has a fruit cage and wildflower area sown with seeds 'suitable for a coastal garden'. The third area is woodland and has recently been sown with wildflower seeds. The polytunnel frame has been covered with netting to provide a second fruit cage. There is a small pond. The seven-sided gazebo has recently been fitted with seating and storage made by a local craftsman. Daffodils are in bloom March/April.

Directions: Bay Cottage is on the B9011 from Kinloss to Findhorn and is the first house on the left past the Findhorn sign. There is limited parking at the house. More parking is available at the ‘bird hide’ car park 400m before the house.

Admission: £7.00, children free

Charities: Forres, Nairn and District RDA 60%

Fernlea Garden

Corvisel Road, Newton Stewart DG8 6LW
Mrs Jenny Gustafson

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2026)

2c6

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: East Wigtownshire red squirrels 60%

Hunter's Tryst

95 Oxgangs Road, Edinburgh EH10 7BA
Jean Knox

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2026)

4

T:07708 653584 (and leave a message) E:jean.knox@icloud.com

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, 18, 27. 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%

46 South Street

St Andrews KY16 9JT
Mrs June Baxter

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 July (2026)

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%

South Flisk

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

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 June (2026)

46

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%

Sonas

Hazelmere Road, Kilmacolm PA13 4JW
Sheila and John Hamilton

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2026)

79

E:SheilaSonas@outlook.com

Sonas is a new build within the garden of Netherknockbuckle, one of the 6 James Salmon’s houses in Kilmacolm. Sonas benefits from many mature trees including an 80 year old great white cherry. It also has the original pond, refurbished to prevent leakage. This is now linked to a new smaller pond at the top of the garden by a stream flanked by black and yellow irises and candelabra primula. The beds are planted with peonies and Japanese anemones to emphasise the Japanese theme. In the back garden there is a large greenhouse with a very prolific grape vine, together with raised vegetable beds and some fruit trees. There is also a short woodland walk along the old mill burn which is lined with daffodils and bluebells.

Directions: Hazelmere Road is a private road on the westerly edge of Kilmacolm, off Florence Drive. Limited parking at the house or on-street parking on Florence Dr and then a short walk, turn right at the T junction, Sonas is the 3rd house on the right.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Maggie's 60%

15 Fairfield Road

Broughty Ferry, Dundee DD5 1NX
Aileen Scoular

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2026)

2c467

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: £6.00, children free

Charities: Scottish Action for Mental Health 60%

Burnside

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

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2026)

67

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. Also, there is a potting shed 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. Alternatively, enter Burnside Drongan into Google maps.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer's Research UK 60%

Pitcurran House

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

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 August (2026)

467

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

This end-of-village garden was created 22 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 60%

Kirkmuir Cottage

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

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 August (2026)

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%

The Croft

Houston Road Langbank PA14 6XT
Oliver Miller

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2026)

4

E:edburd@btinternet.com

This special one 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 1981 which 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: MND Scotland 30% & Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue 30%

A Blackbird Sings

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

By arrangement between 1 April - 6 September (2026)

46

T:01875 853003

Situated in Glassel Park Estate, the planting of this long garden reflects East Lothian habitats including moorland, grassland and woodland, and also areas of related plant varieties such as rockery, roses, ferns, heucheras and peonies. Together, they form a pattern of gardens within a garden. A large waterlily 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, Persian acacia 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%

Bonhard House

Perth PH2 7PQ
Stephen and Charlotte Hay

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2026)

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 pergola 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 about ½ mile beyond Perth and before Scone, turn right signed Murrayshall Country Estate. After about a mile pass an electricity substation on the left, then go round a right bend and Bonhard House drive entrance is straight ahead (on a sharp left bend). From Balbeggie turn left just over a mile short of Scone signposted Bonhard. After about ½ mile take the first right turn. Bonhard House is about 1½ miles down this lane, about a mile beyond Murrayshall Country Estate. The drive entrance is on the left on a sharp right bend.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Freedom from Fistula Foundation 60%

House of Aigas and Field Centre

by Beauly IV4 7AD
Sir John and Lady Lister-Kaye, Greg and Hermione Jackson

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2026)

6e

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: 4½ miles from Beauly on the A831 Cannich/Glen Affric road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Highland Hospice: Aird branch 60%

Ruthven Cottage Hardy Plant Nursery

Delnies, Nairn IV12 5NT
Mari and Kevin Reid

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2026)

c5

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: Perennial 60%

Dundonnell House

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QW
Dundonnell Estates

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2026)

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: The Tusk Trust 30% & Parkinsons UK 30%

Grandhome

Danestone, Aberdeen AB22 8AR
Mrs WJB Paton

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October. Please, no dogs. We would prefer three working days' notice of your visit when booking. (2026)

26

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

Eighteenth-century walled garden incorporating a rose garden and further grounds 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

Berryfield House

Lentran, Inverness IV3 8RJ
Lynda Perch-Nielsen

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 July (2026)

6

T: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. View cowslips in May and meadow orchids mid-June to mid-July.

Directions: Halfway between Inverness and Beauly on the A862. From Inverness, 4¼ miles on the left from crossing over the Clachnaharry railway bridge. From Beauly, 1¼ miles on the right from The Old North Inn.

Admission: by donation

Charities: Action Medical Research 60%

Berandhu

Appin, Argyll PA38 4DD
John and Fiona Landale

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2026)

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%

Gledenholm House

Ae Village , Dumfries DG1 1RF
Les Jack

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 August (2026)

c6

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 beginning to open. 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 Dumfries and 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

The Tower

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

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2026)

4

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 entrance is the second gate on the right.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Brain Tumour Research 60%

Auldbyres Farm Garden

Coylton KA6 6HG
Marshall and Sue Veitch

By arrangement between 11 April - 30 August (2026)

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%

Lennel Bank

Coldstream TD12 4EX
Mrs Honor Brown

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2026)

7

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: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Netherbyres

Eyemouth TD14 5SE
Col S J Furness

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 August (2026)

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

Rumblingwell Urban Iris Garden

48 Rumblingwell, Dunfermline KY12 9AS
Rik Morley

By arrangement between 1 May - 1 July (2026)

467

T:07733 855794 E:rik.morley@gmail.com

Welcome to Iris Heaven! Our garden is packed full of bearded, siberian and species irises with over 70 cultivars, most of which are historically and internationally important. Look out for pop-up weekends to see around 50 irises in flower at the same time, many of which are the only examples in Scotland. Join us in the shade of our ornamental trees (many from Asia), relax by the ponds and water features, and see temperate plants from around the world.

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%

Amat

Amat Lodge, Ardgay IV24 3BS
Jonny and Sara Shaw

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 July (2026)

36e7

T:07712 266500 E:sara.amat@aol.co.uk

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: £6.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & Marie Curie 30%

Ardno

Cairndow PA26 8BE
Christopher Egerton-Warburton

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2026)

7

T:Rob Backhouse Gardener 01499 302304

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: Here We Are: Clachan 60%

The Potting Shed

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

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2026)

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%

Brooklands

Crocketford DG2 8QH
Mr and Mrs Archie Herries

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2026)

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

Seabeach

West Shore, Pittenweem KY10 2NU
Drs Amanda and Brad Wood

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 August (2026)

79

T:07765 617421 E:amanda@madandbrandy.co.uk

Seabeach’s coastal location offers spectacular views out over the Firth of Forth. Surprisingly sheltered, this one-acre site has been evolving since 2020, as we learn what survives in the wind, sea-spray and poor, stony soil. Formerly Pittenweem’s Gas Works, the garden now features irises, delphiniums, cottage garden borders, raised vegetable beds and formal planting. High stone walls attest to the site’s industrial past and excavated old bricks and stone have been incorporated into the new garden. Meandering hillside beds, planted in blue and white, are designed to mirror the sea and rocky skellies beyond. A large bank of cardoons, towering echiums and expansive hebe bushes are home to a host of birds, butterflies and bees. Although paths can be a little steep, lower areas of the garden are more accessible.

Directions: Pedestrian access is along West Shore. No car parking on site. There is a 3 minute walk from parking on either East Shore or the West Braes car park.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Parkinsons UK 30% & Prostate Cancer UK 30%

Thorntree

Arnprior FK8 3EY
Mark and Carol Seymour

By arrangement between 1 May - 1 September (2026)

6

T:01786 870710 E:carolseymour666@gmail.com

W:www.thorntreebarn.co.uk

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%

Old Allangrange

Munlochy IV8 8NZ
J J Gladwin

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2026)

e

T:01463 811304 E:office@blackislegardendesign.com

The house sits in the middle of the ornamental garden with several different, distinctive areas. Hedges formal and informal, pleached, cloud-pruned, play an important role within the garden to separate the areas. Particularly of note is the mound which children love to climb up and roll down. We also have a substantial market garden which is designed to be beautiful as well as productive. Increasing biodiversity is a crucial part of how we garden, and are pleased to note that through one of our ecological initiatives, putting in a tree-surrounded pond, we have had the largest number of hawfinches ever caught on camera in Scotland (24 in one photo). We have fun ways of increasing life in the garden and on the farm - replacing fences with log hedges and brash bunds fish whinrows, planting, and letting areas go wild and rough. We use no dig, permaculture and agroforestry techniques. Also open concurrently with our garden is the Go Flourish School Garden at North Kessock, which is the charity supported through our openings.
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. GoFlourish garden in North Kessock is accessed from Drumsmittal Road.

Admission: £8.00, children free

Charities: GO FLOURISH [SCIO] 60%

Dal an Eas

Kilmore, Oban PA34 4XU
Mary Lindsay

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2026)

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: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

2 Strathview

Alcaig, Conon Bridge IV7 8HS
Mike and Babs Crocker

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 July (2026)

2

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. There are various seating areas with a stunning panoramic view. Featuring a small greenhouse, a model steam railway (which will be running) and a water feature fed by rainwater leading to a small deep pond. Achilty stone retaining walls and steps have been added over the years and many plants have been chosen for their perfume. Feel free to ask Babs about her compost!

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: The Mahler Players 60%

Struanbridge

Essich Road, Inverness IV2 6AH
Marcus and Catriona Jenks

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2026)

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: Dementia UK 60%

An Cala

Ellenabeich, Isle of Seil PA34 4RF
Mrs Carolyn Nicholson

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2026)

46d7

E:ancalagarden@gmail.com

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 and 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: CCLG: The Children and Young People's Cancer Association 30% & RNLI: Oban branch 30%

Carig Dhubh

Bonskeid, Pitlochry PH16 5NP
Jane and Niall Graham-Campbell

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2026)

7

T:07778899542 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%

The Secret Garden

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

By arrangement between 1 May - 1 September (2026)

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: Kilmoluag Liosmor 60%

Eas Mhor

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

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2026)

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: support for domestic abuse- Oban Branch 60%

Barochreal

Kilninver, Oban, Argyll PA34 4UT
Nigel and Antoinette Mitchell

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2026)

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%

Drumpark

Irongray DG2 9TX
Mr and Mrs Iain Mitchell

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 August (2026)

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%

Kildalloig

Campbeltown PA28 6RE
Mr and Mrs Joe Turner

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2026)

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: £6.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support 30% & Marie Curie 30%

Amulree

8 Mill Street, Drummore, Stranraer DG9 9PS
Colin Belton and Gabrielle Reynolds

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2026)

4a7

T:07899 092070 E:gabygardeners@btinternet.com

Amulree is home to two complete plantaholics who probably should start taking their own advice and stop collecting quite so many plants! Starting from a blank canvas in 2017 the garden now consists of a sunny terrace with displays of half-hardy and tender plants, exuberantly planted borders separated by serpentine grass patches, a small vegetable patch, a glasshouse and a 'wild' bit. Amulree contains many unusual plants including a National Plant Collection.
National Plant Collection: Nicotiana species

Directions: Follow the A716 signposted Drummore and Mull of Galloway. At the T-junction in Drummore turn right. Amulree is on the left, a few doors up from the shop. Bus route 407 from Stranraer.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Kirkmaiden Old Kirk 60%

Glenkyllachy

Tomatin IV13 7YA
Mr and Mrs Philip Mackenzie

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2026)

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 specimen trees in the 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, articles in The English Garden Magazine, Scottish Field, and most recently in Garden News (August 2025). 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: £8.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie 60%

Whitehills House

Minnigaff, Newton Stewart DG8 6SC
Irma Frend

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2026)

679

E:ilramos5000@gmail.com

Set within over nine acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, Whitehills offers an enchanting retreat. The beautiful and tranquil gardens blend mature woodland, sweeping lawns, and a rich variety of flowering shrubs and specimen trees. A network of winding paths explore distinct garden spaces, from shaded woodland walks to open, sunlit areas ideal for rest and reflection. At the heart of the grounds lies a striking south-facing stone terrace, elevated above the gardens with views across the surrounding landscape. Further features include a tennis court, traditional outbuildings, and a charming greenhouse, all thoughtfully integrated within the natural surroundings. These gardens provide more than visual beauty—they offer a rare sense of escape, quiet inspiration, and connection to nature, creating a truly memorable experience for all who visit.

Directions: From Newton Stewart turn right over Cree Bridge then first left after 50m. Follow the road through Minnigaff for ½ mile. Turn left at the RSPB sign, continue past Minnigaff Church on the right then continue 300m on the main road. Whitehills is first left at the black wrought iron gates.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Moray Reach Out 30% & HOPE for Autism 30%

Arndean

by Dollar FK14 7NH
Johnny and Katie Stewart

By arrangement between 6 May - 7 June (2026)

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: £6.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie 60%

Orchard Cottage

Lunan Bay, Inverkeilor, Arbroath DD11 5SS
Carol Evans

By arrangement between 15 May - 15 July (2026)

1

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 wildflowers, 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 farm track opposite. Take left turn and after approx 200m you start to go downhill. There is a house on the left called the Bears Den. Take first right turn as you start to go downhill. It's an unmade track with four houses listed. Orchard Cottage is first on the left with wooden gates.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Scottish SPCA 60%

House of Gruinard

Laide, by Achnasheen IV22 2NQ
The Hon Mrs A G Maclay

By arrangement between 15 May - 15 September (2026)

T:01445 731235 E:office@houseofgruinard.com

A garden sympathetically created to blend into the surrounding landscape with sweeping vistas out to Gruinard Island. This unexpected garden features a wide variety of interesting herbaceous and shrub borders, a water garden and extended wild planting.

Directions: On the A832, 12 miles north of Inverewe and nine miles south of Dundonnell.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie 30% & Highland Hospice 30%

1 Alvah Terrace

Banff AB45 1BG
Morag Baptie

By arrangement between 16 May - 16 September (2026)

2469

T:07367 287943 E:moragbaptie@hotmail.com

This garden wraps around three sides of an urban bungalow. The front garden, with a mix of rhododendrons, azaleas and acers, leads to a path between a mixed border with seasonal perennials, roses and hydrangeas and raised beds containing vegetables and soft fruits. There is a tiny woodland, a vegetable patch, pond and a fairy garden. The back garden is designed around the washing line, with spring bulbs followed by a white planting of roses, lupins, peonies, anemones and several types of grasses. There is a deck with outdoor seating along with a potting shed, and a summerhouse which sits in the sunniest corner. No space has been wasted in this compact garden.

Directions: Follow the A97 through Banff towards Aberchirder and turn right at the roundabout at entrance to the Fife Lodge Hotel. The 35 Stagecoach bus will drop you at Banff High Street.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Banff & Macduff in Bloom 60%

Lynbrook

Grange by Errol PH2 7TB
Mrs Lynda Crouch

By arrangement between 23 May - 21 June. Best to contact by phone. (2026)

c479

T:07549 160159 E:lyndacrouch@icloud.com

This half-acre, clay soil plot carved from the grounds of a 19th century mansion, proves what can be done with hard work and passion. With the help of many large stones salvaged from the ruined mansion next door, owned by Patrick Matthew (1790 -1874), Lynda created a rock garden from scratch using the stone to create structure and form. Patrick’s son from California sent over the first giant redwood seedlings in 1853, one of which stands next to this garden. The garden is jam-packed with an interesting and colourful mix of alpines and herbaceous plants, including a few unusual plants, and is a haven for bees and butterflies.

Directions: On A90 from Perth, pass Glendoick and Shell garage. Go over the flyover following signs to Errol. Pass Cairn O'Mhor and straight on to reach a T-junction. Turn left and at the Grange sign turn left. Low wooden gate at the bottom of the road. Bus 16. Find using https://what3words.com/tools.flown.alley

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Cardiff University - Blood Cancer Research 60%

Pitlochie House

Gateside KY14 7SQ
George and Fay Orr

By arrangement between 31 May - 31 July (2026)

6

T:07730 135953

This established garden has year-round interest. A restoration project with quirky features, characters and surprises! Comprising lots of different areas, the garden is carpeted in spring with snowdrops, daffodils, camassia and then bluebells. Following on there are over 140 varieties of hosta, plus heuchera, hellebores, roses, clematis, and lilies. There are formal herbaceous borders within two walled gardens, hedges, woodland, shaded planting, glass house, fruit trees, rhododendrons and azaleas. And pots of all description in every available corner.

Directions: On the A912 Gateside to Perth. The garden is on the right hand side, 200 metres from the village main street

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Gateside And District Community Association 60%

1 Burnton Road

Dalrymple KA6 6DY
David and Margaret Blatchford

By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2026)

4

T:07902 854328 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, 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 particular 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%

Barlockhart Lodge

Glenluce DG8 0JG
Barlockhart Gardeners

By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2026)

2c6

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%

Heatherwick Farm

Kintore, Inverurie AB51 0UQ
Lucy and Joe Narducci

By arrangement between 1 June - 30 June & 1 August - 31 August (2026)

25

T:07783 469554 E:milnelucy@hotmail.com

Our two acre farmhouse garden has spacious lawns, densely planted perennial borders, evergreen shrubberies, a vegetable patch, orchard and native wild paddock. With its open nature and many seats, the garden is accessible to all and has space for children to roam.

Directions: From Inverurie centre, take the B9001 southwards. At the corner of St Mary's Place and St James's Place follow signs for Keithhall. Then follow signs for Balbithan. Heatherwick is signposted and on the left after Hogholm. It is three miles from the centre of Inverurie. The address and location map can be found on scotlandsgardens.org.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Myeloma UK 60%

Potters

Stair Park, London Road, Stranraer DG9 8BS
Denys Potter-Smith

By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2026)

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T:01776 700977 E:denys@pottersgarden.org.uk

Potters came into being with the aim of improving the standard and quality of life for people of all

ages living with ASC/ADHD /learning disabilities/difficulties/additional support that vary in complexity. Our talented team of committed and enthusiastic volunteers is central to delivering our service which is based around a person-centred approach meeting individual needs. Since our work on the garden began, we have transformed a once overgrown site in the centre of Stranraer into attractive garden areas, including a rose garden (designed by David Austin), a fruit and vegetable garden and a wildlife area. Whilst our activities are mainly related to gardening, other creative projects are ongoing. We provide a safe working environment for all.

Directions: Potters is just off the A75 approx 1/2 mile from Stranraer town centre.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Potters 60%

5 Knott

Clachamish, Portree, Isle of Skye IV51 9NZ
Brian and Joyce Heggie

By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2026)

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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: £5.00, children free

Charities: The Way Forward Group 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 (2026)

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 the Garden Owner for full directions. what3words/stun.scorched.footsteps

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Buglife - The Invertebrate Conservation Trust 60%

Aldouran Lodge

Aldouran Lodge, Leswalt DG9 OLJ
Gordon Wemyss

By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2026)

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T:07475 710191 E:gwemyss@mac.com

A sheltered SE facing garden set in a stunning landscape comprising about 2 acres of mature planting - mainly shrubs and trees. Access through the borders is via fairly steep narrow paths. There is a large variety of unusual plants including the Sassafras, Polylepsis Australis (Filo Pastry Tree) and Clerodendron (Peanut Butter Bush). There are also many tender rhododendrons which enjoy the uniquely mild climate of this part of SW Scotland.

Directions: Drive straight through Leswalt Village turning right after the graveyard on your right and follow the driveway to the house - about 100 m.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Covington Mill Farmhouse

Covington Road, Thankerton, Biggar ML12 6NE
Sharon Pearson

By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2026)

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T:07827 236771 E:sharon.pearson69@outlook.com

Set amongst 8 acres, the gardens have been transformed since 2019 from pastureland to a landscape of woodlands, wildlife habitats, formal gardens and recently, a prairie-inspired garden. A restored watermill building and lade runs through the whole area, creating a meditative backdrop to the matrix and drift planting schemes surrounding them.

Directions: From the A73 turn off at Tinto Hill into the village of Thankerton and follow the SGS signs. Buses 31 and 91 run to Thankerton village.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: The Linda Norgrove Foundation 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 July (2026)

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T: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: 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. 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 (2026)

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T:01776 830455 E:birchteri@gmail.com

A garden for plant lovers 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, yew hedge, rockery 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 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 brown 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%