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Total of 91 openings.
Humbie Dean

Humbie Dean

Humbie EH36 5PW
Frank Kirwan
Wednesday 20 March, Wednesday 17 April, Wednesday 15 May, Wednesday 12 June, Wednesday 17 July, Wednesday 14 August & Wednesday 2 October, 10:30am - 4pm (2024)
c
frank.kirwan@gmail.com
A two-acre ornamental and wooded garden on a variety of levels, sandwiched between two burns at 600 feet, planted for interest throughout the season. A limited palette of plants with hosta, hellebores, perennial geraniums, primula, meconopsis, martagon lilies, clematis, spring bulbs, ground cover, herbaceous and shrub planting, bluebell meadow, mature and recent azalea and rhododendron planting. The lower sections of the garden are only accessible by a series of steps.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Mamie Martin Fund 60%
Glenarn

Glenarn

Glenarn Road, Rhu, Helensburgh G84 8LL
Michael and Sue Thornley
Saturday 30 March, 2pm sharp. GUIDED WALK - PLEASE BOOK TICKETS There are 11 large tree magnolias in flower representing about 5 different species plus the Gibson big leaf hybrid rhododendrons. The walk will look at the impact of the magnolias in the garden and will also look at all of the big leaf species rhododendrons in flower and show how they were used by the Gibson brothers in their hybridisation experiments. Visitors will be able to see the results and how the different colour combinations and effects were achieved. (2024)
46ed7
T:01436 820493 masthome@btinternet.com
Glenarn survives as a complete example of a ten-acre garden which spans from 1850 to the present day. There are winding paths through miniature glens under a canopy of oaks and limes, sunlit open spaces, a vegetable garden with beehives, and a rock garden full of surprise and season-long colour. The famous collections of rare and tender rhododendrons and magnolias give way in midsummer to roses rambling through the trees and climbing hydrangeas, followed by the starry white flowers of hoherias and eucryphias to the end of the season. There is a Silent Space at the top of the garden with views over the Gareloch.
Champion Trees: Notably Magnolia rostrata

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: £7.50, children free
Charities: Rhu and Shandon Parish Church of Scotland: Tower Appeal 60%
Kirkton Manor House

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn
Wednesday only from 3 - 24 April, 1pm - 4pm (2024)
7
T:01721 740220 rpthorburn@icloud.com
Kirkton Manor House has a delightful, three-acre, informal country garden set in the beautiful Manor Valley. It enjoys spectacular open views and calling curlews from its riverside position. Bluebells flank the impressive entrance leading to a new shrub border. Stone steps continue through to terraced slopes filled with bulbs, roses and hellebores providing height, interest and fragrance. Grass paths meander along the burn where snowdrops, blue and white camassia, meconopsis, and ligularia thrive in this sunny meadow environment. Later, in June, sisyrinchiums, irises, orchids and many flowering shrubs and roses are abundant. The natural woodland includes many interesting trees.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
Dundonnell House

Dundonnell House

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QW
Dundonnell Estates
Thursday 11 April, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
c6e7
T:07789 390028 sueandwill@icloud.com
Camellias, magnolias and bulbs in spring, rhododendrons and laburnum walk in this ancient walled garden. Exciting planting in new borders gives all year colour, centred around one of the oldest yew trees in Scotland. A new water sculpture, midsummer roses, recently restored 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: Fauna & Flora International 30% & Multiple Sclerosis Society 30%
Balmaclellan House

Balmaclellan House

Balmaclellan, Castle Douglas DG7 3PW
Alan and Fiona Smith
Sunday 28 April, 1pm - 4pm (2024)
2c67
T:01644 420227 Mob: 07769680938 alan.smith12345@btinternet.com
The formal garden at Balmaclellan House sits within a six-acre woodland garden with many interesting maturing trees. This formal garden was created in 2011 on the site of a redundant tennis court. The design is based on the Balmaclellan Mirror, a very early iron age mirror made of bronze which was found nearby and is currently in the National Museum of Scotland. The mirror is represented by a raised pond with other decorative features on the original replicated by raised beds and granite setts. While the planting has been designed to give year-round colour the use of daffodils and tulips brings a vibrancy to the garden in early spring. A small wooden building dates back to 1896 and is where the resident Minister is said to have written his sermons. The woodland walks and lawned areas have stone seats at appropriate points to take in the lovely views over the Rhins of Kells.

Directions: On the B7075, just off the A712 approximately 14 miles north of Castle Douglas and two miles from New Galloway.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Glenkens Community And Arts Trust Limited 60%
Kirkton Manor House

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn
Wednesday only from 1 - 29 May, 1pm - 4pm (2024)
7
T:01721 740220 rpthorburn@icloud.com
Kirkton Manor House has a delightful, three-acre, informal country garden set in the beautiful Manor Valley. It enjoys spectacular open views and calling curlews from its riverside position. Bluebells flank the impressive entrance leading to a new shrub border. Stone steps continue through to terraced slopes filled with bulbs, roses and hellebores providing height, interest and fragrance. Grass paths meander along the burn where snowdrops, blue and white camassia, meconopsis, and ligularia thrive in this sunny meadow environment. Later, in June, sisyrinchiums, irises, orchids and many flowering shrubs and roses are abundant. The natural woodland includes many interesting trees.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
Portrack, The Garden of Cosmic Speculation

Portrack, The Garden of Cosmic Speculation

Holywood DG2 0RW
John Jencks
Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th May. Strictly by advance ticket only and tickets will go on sale via the Scotland's Gardens Scheme website on Monday 19 February at 11am. (2024)
Forty major areas, gardens, bridges, landforms, sculpture, terraces, fences and architectural works. Covering 30 acres, The Garden of Cosmic Speculation, designed by the late Charles Jencks, uses nature to celebrate nature, both intellectually and through the senses, including the sense of humour.

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

Admission: £15.00, children free
Charities: Maggie's 60%
South Flisk

South Flisk

Blebo Craigs, Cupar KY15 5UQ
Mr and Mrs George Young
Sunday 5 May, 11am - 5pm (2024)
2c46
T:01334 850859 southfliskgarden@gmail.com
The spectacular views to Perthshire and Angus, and the large flooded quarry full of fish (and occasional otter) and 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 until 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 be demonstrating his pottery skills for those who need a break from the garden! A new water garden with a stream running through it 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 saying Blebo Craigs. See map on our website. Bus to Blebo Craigs.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 60%
Regent, Royal and Carlton Terrace Gardens

Regent, Royal and Carlton Terrace Gardens

17a Royal Terrace Mews, Carlton Terrace Lane Entrance, Edinburgh EH7 5BZ
RRCT Gardens Association
Saturday 11 May, 12pm - 4pm (2024)
3479
The largest of Edinburgh's New Town gardens still in private ownership, it remains largely unchanged since its formation in 1830. The design consists of an upland lawn of seven acres planted with specimen trees. The flanking woodlands of five acres are planted with spring bulbs giving a carpet of colour. Sitting on the lower slope of Calton Hill, the garden has beautiful views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside.

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

Admission: £7.50, children free
Charities: Firefly 60%
Knock Newhouse

Knock Newhouse

Lochgair PA31 8RZ
Mrs Hew Service
Saturday/Sunday, 11/12 May & Sunday 2 June, 1pm - 5pm (2024)
2c467
T:01546 886628 corranmorhouse@aol.com
Like all good gardens, it has evolved over time. The garden is centred on a 250 foot lochan, a small waterfall and lily pond. The first trees and rhododendrons were planted in the 60s, with major additions in the 90s. A variety of cut leaf and flowering trees were added after the storms of 2011/12. As a result, the garden now has a wide range of specimen trees, camellias, hoheria, eucryphia, stewartia to name a few in addition to the azaleas and rhododendrons. January flowering is followed by spring flowers and bluebells and then into the autumn by spectacular colours. I am delighted to welcome visitors at any time, please let me know when you would like to visit.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: The Lochgair Association (SCIO): Village Hall Fund 30% & Cancer Research UK 30%
Braevallich Farm

Braevallich Farm

by Dalmally PA33 1BU
Mr Philip Bowden-Smith
Sunday 12 May & Sunday 2 June, 12:30pm - 5:30pm (2024)
2c7
T:01866 844246 philip@brae.co.uk
Discover two gardens, one at the farm and an upper garden further up the hill. The former is approximately one and a half acres and developed over the last 40 years. Its principal features include dwarf rhododendron, azaleas (evergreen and deciduous), large drifts of various primula and meconopsis and bluebells, and mixed herbaceous perennials/shrubs; there is also quite a serious kitchen garden. The second garden has been developed over the last 30 years out of a birch and sessile oak wood and is a traditional west coast glen garden intersected by two pretty burns with waterfalls. The garden has been extended over the last few years and now covers nearly ten acres with extensive new paths, and a suspension bridge over the ravine. Whilst the plants are important, many say that it is the topography with its differing vistas which make this garden such a peaceful and special place.

Directions: South-east of Loch Awe on the B840, 15 miles from Cladich, seven miles from Ford.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Mary's Meals 60%
Tyninghame House and The Walled Garden

Tyninghame House and The Walled Garden

Tyninghame House, Dunbar EH42 1XW
Mrs C Gwyn, Tyninghame Gardens Ltd
Sunday 12 May, 1pm - 5pm (2024)
3457
The formal walled garden combines the lawn, sculpture and yew hedges, an Apple Walk, extensive herbaceous planting including roses and peonies with an informal arboretum. Splendid 17th century sandstone Scottish baronial house, remodelled in 1829 by William Burn. The gardens include herbaceous border, formal rose garden, Lady Haddington’s Secret Garden with old fashioned roses and an extensive Wilderness spring garden with rhododendrons, azalea, flowering trees and bulbs. Grounds include a one mile beech avenue to the sea. The Romanesque ruin of St Baldred’s Church commands views across the Tyne Estuary and Lammermuir Hills. Tyninghame has been awarded ‘Outstanding’ for every category in the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes of Scotland.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Lynton Day Centre 30%
Arbigland House

Arbigland House

Kirkbean, Dumfries DG2 8BQ
Alistair Alcock and Wayne Whittaker
Sunday 12 May, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
06d7
T:01387 880764 alcockalistair@gmail.com
Arbigland House is an Adam-style 18th-century mansion surrounded by 24 acres of woodland gardens running down to a beach on the Solway Firth. The gardens date from the 18th century but the more formal areas were developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and are currently undergoing a programme of restoration and development. There are 200 year-old trees lining the Broad Walk which runs down to the Solway and a huge variety of rhododendrons and azaleas. Within the woodland are a range of features including a stream-fed lake and a Japanese garden, with a more formal sundial garden and sunken rose garden, all in the process of renewal. Amongst these are a diverse collection of mature trees and shrubs.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Absolute Classics 30% & The Arts Society, Dumfries and Galloway 30%
Highwood

Highwood

off Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm PA13 4TF
Dr Jill Morgan
Sunday 12 May, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
2c7
A beautiful woodland walk around 50 acres of native bluebells, primroses and wild garlic in a delightful setting bordering the Green Water river with tumbling waterfalls. Great outdoor space for children to run and explore and splash in the burn (under supervision). A haven of tranquillity only three miles from the centre of Kilmacolm. This opening is raising funds for Buildher (buildher.org) a social enterprise owned by Orkidstudio.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Orkidstudio 60%
The Garden with the Dragon

The Garden with the Dragon

2, Upper Wellheads, Limekilns KY11 3JQ
Mr and Mrs Duncan Philp
Saturday 18 May, 1pm - 4pm (2024)
045
T:01383 872047 df.philp@btinternet.com
A quirky coastal garden hidden behind a walled plot. Scatterings of California poppies, bluebells and a varied mix of annuals and perennials with a small clear pond. Different themes blend in the garden, all overseen by a majestic dragon sculpture perched on a tree.

Directions: Take the A985 from Rosyth or Kincardine and follow directions for Limekilns and Charlestown. The No.6 bus from Dunfermline bus station on the hour.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: The Five Sisters Zoo Rescue and Conservation SCIO 60%
Ross Priory

Ross Priory

Gartocharn G83 8NL
University of Strathclyde
Sunday 19 May, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
2c467
Mansion house with glorious views over Loch Lomond with adjoining garden. Wonderful rhododendrons and azaleas are the principal plants in the garden, with a varied selection of trees and shrubs throughout. Spectacular spring bulbs, border plantings of herbaceous perennials, shrubs and trees. Extensive walled garden with glasshouses, pergola and ornamental plantings. Children’s play area and putting green beside the house.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Friends Of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs 30% & Loch Lomond Rescue Boat 30%
Gorthleck House Garden

Gorthleck House Garden

Stratherrick IV2 6UJ
Steve and Katie Smith
Friday 24 May - Sunday 2 June, 10am - 6pm, admission £5.00, children free. (2024)
T:07710 325903 gorthleckgarden@gmail.com
Gorthleck is an unusual 20-acre woodland garden built in an unlikely place, on and around an exposed rocky ridge which offers long views of the surrounding countryside in the ‘borrowed landscape’ tradition of Japanese gardens. The layout of the garden works with the natural features of the landscape with numerous paths, hedges and shelter belts creating clearly defined areas where a large collection of trees and shrubs are thriving. The garden includes over 400 different varieties of rhododendrons, half of which are species, and a large variety of bamboos. It is a large garden so allow sufficient time to see it properly.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Maggie's 60%
The Garden with the Dragon

The Garden with the Dragon

2, Upper Wellheads, Limekilns KY11 3JQ
Mr and Mrs Duncan Philp
Saturday 25 May, 1pm - 4pm (2024)
045
T:01383 872047 df.philp@btinternet.com
A quirky coastal garden hidden behind a walled plot. Scatterings of California poppies, bluebells and a varied mix of annuals and perennials with a small clear pond. Different themes blend in the garden, all overseen by a majestic dragon sculpture perched on a tree.

Directions: Take the A985 from Rosyth or Kincardine and follow directions for Limekilns and Charlestown. The No.6 bus from Dunfermline bus station on the hour.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: The Five Sisters Zoo Rescue and Conservation SCIO 60%
Pitlochie House

Pitlochie House

Gateside KY14 7SQ
George & Fay Orr
Sunday 26 May, 10am - 6pm (2024)
269
T:07730135953
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%
Kilsyth Gardens

Kilsyth Gardens

Allanfauld Road G65 9DE
Mr George Murdoch, Mr and Mrs Alan Patrick
Sunday 26 May, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
467
T:07743 110908 alan.patrick3@googlemail.com
Aeolia Allanfauld Road, Kilsyth G65 9DE (Mr George Murdoch): A third-of-an-acre woodland garden developed since 1960 and designed to have something in flower every month of the year. The garden contains a large variety of mature specimen trees and shrubs, maples, primulas, hardy geraniums and herbaceous plants. Spring bulbs provide early colour and lilies and dahlias provide late season interest. There are a couple of small ponds for wildlife, two greenhouses and a fruit production area. The owner is a member of the Scottish Rhododendron Society and has a collection of over 100 specimens, some grown from seed. Areas of the garden are often under development to provide something new to see and provide material for the extensive plant sale, which is all home grown. 
Blackmill Allanfauld Road, Kilsyth G65 9DE (Mr and Mrs A Patrick): Across the road from Aeolia is Blackmill through which the Garrel Burn flows. The garden includes the magnificent seven-metre waterfall with its ever-changing moods throughout the year. On one side of the property, on the site of an old water-powered sickle mill, is an acre of mature specimen trees, rhododendrons and shrubs with an ornamental pond and a rock pool built into the remains of the mill building. Across the burn there is a further two acres of woodland glen with paths along the waterside offering glimpses of the many cascading waterfalls. A large area of wildflowers has been newly introduced alongside the burn. A micro-hydro scheme is on view, along with many different examples of dry stone walls. Visitors remark on the sense of tranquillity and peace they experience in the garden and appreciate the works of art created from repurposed stone and salvaged material.

Directions: Turn off the A803 into Parkburn Road up to the crossroads (parking attendant will advise on parking). The 89 bus Glasgow - Kilsyth has a stop at the crossroads a couple of minutes walk to the gardens. The nearest station is Croy, then take the bus 147 or 344 to Kilsyth. 

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Strathcarron Hospice 60%
Kirklands

Kirklands

Saline KY12 9TS
Peter and Gill Hart
Sunday 26 May, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
2c467
T:07787 115477 peter@kirklandsgarden.co.uk
Kirklands, built in 1832, has been the Hart family home for 46 years. Over the years we have created a garden. The walled garden was reinstated from a paddock including terracing and raised beds. In 2023 we introduced two bee hives. Unfortunately, our box hedges in the walled garden and elsewhere are being removed due to box blight, but it gives us the opportunity to make some changes! The woodland garden starts in February with snowdrops then bluebells, hellebores, trilliums, fritillaries, rhododendrons, meconopsis and candelabra primulas. The rockery displays dwarf rhododendrons and azaleas. The herbaceous borders reach their peak in the summer. Down by the Saline Burn, the bog garden is home to a giant Gunnera manicata. Over the red or blue bridge there are 20 acres of naturally regenerating woodland with a pathway by the stream. To keep the grandchildren occupied, Peter built a tree house, climbing frame and rope swing, though we hope they will take an interest in gardening too!

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
Corsock House

Corsock House

Corsock, Castle Douglas DG7 3DJ
The Ingall family
Sunday 26 May, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
2c67
T:01644 440250 jingall@hotmail.com
Corsock House garden includes an amazing variety of designed landscape, from a strictly formal walled garden, through richly planted woodlands full of different vistas, artfully designed water features and surprises to extensive lawns showing off the Bryce baronial mansion. This is an Arcadian garden with pools and temples, described by Ken Cox as ‘perhaps my favourite of Scotland’s many woodland gardens’. 

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Corsock & Kirkpatrick Durham Church Of Scotland 60%
Dundonnell House

Dundonnell House

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QW
Dundonnell Estates
Thursday 30 May, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
2c6e7
T:07789 390028 sueandwill@icloud.com
Camellias, magnolias and bulbs in spring, rhododendrons and laburnum walk in this ancient walled garden. Exciting planting in new borders gives all year colour, centred around one of the oldest yew trees in Scotland. A new water sculpture, midsummer roses, recently restored 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: Fauna & Flora International 30% & Multiple Sclerosis Society 30%
Swallows Rest

Swallows Rest

Lindores KY14 6JD
Stuart & Elaine Ingram
Sunday 2 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
47
T:07703 435055 elaine.ingram@icloud.com
The current owners moved in at the beginning of 2011 to a garden of grass and weeds. Since then, beds have been hand-dug, a slope filled with dwarf conifers and heathers, a pond and small stream made, and step-over fruit trees planted. The garden also hosts many perennials, shrubs, trees and acid-loving plants. Over 50 varieties of narcissus prolong spring interest, along with many hellebores and rhododendrons.

Directions: Two miles east of Newburgh on the A913 past Den of Lindores, on the left, house with a white door with a stained glass panel of a swallow scene. The garden is opening on 2 June in conjunction with Lindores House - see above listing. As there is limited parking at Swallows Rest, visitors are advised to park at, and walk from, Lindores House.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
Norton House

Norton House

1 North Deeside Road, Kincardine O'Neil, Aboyne, Aberdeenshire AB34 5AA
Andrew and Nicola Bradford
Sunday 2 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
1c8679
Norton House, on the edge of historic Kincardine O'Neil village, is a detached Victorian property dating
back to 1840. The garden is new to Scotland’s Gardens Scheme but the owners are not, as Andrew & Nicky have moved from nearby Kincardine Castle into what was once Andrew's grandmother’s home. Happily the intervening owners were keen gardeners and this is a mature garden with trees, shrubs, herbaceous borders and a small orchard. An area that has been neglected for decades is being chain-sawed into submission as a woodland - work in progress!

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

Admission: £10.00, children free
Charities: Children 1st 60%
Waterside Garden

Waterside Garden

Moffat DG10 9LF
Ronnie Cann
Sunday 2 June, 2pm - 5pm. ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Please visit the SGS website to book. (2024)
6
T:07714230235 rtdcann@gmail.com
Set in beautiful Moffatdale and bounded on one side by the Moffat Water, Waterside Garden is a plantsman's delight, home to woods, riverside walks and three acres of cultivated garden. There are many mature trees including oak, birch, beech and much more. Collections of species and hybrid rhododendrons and azaleas, bamboos, and other flowering shrubs give year-round interest. There are herbaceous beds, giving colour in spring and summer, alpines, mixed plantings, spring bulbs, especially daffodils, and wildflower meadows.

Directions: Three miles north of Moffat on the A708 opposite Craigieburn Forest Car Park. From Selkirk the garden is about 14.5 miles south of St Mary's Loch.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Moffat Water Hall 60%
Kirkton Manor House

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn
Wednesday only from 5 - 26 June, 1pm - 4pm (2024)
7
T:01721 740220 rpthorburn@icloud.com
Kirkton Manor House has a delightful, three-acre, informal country garden set in the beautiful Manor Valley. It enjoys spectacular open views and calling curlews from its riverside position. Bluebells flank the impressive entrance leading to a new shrub border. Stone steps continue through to terraced slopes filled with bulbs, roses and hellebores providing height, interest and fragrance. Grass paths meander along the burn where snowdrops, blue and white camassia, meconopsis, and ligularia thrive in this sunny meadow environment. Later, in June, sisyrinchiums, irises, orchids and many flowering shrubs and roses are abundant. The natural woodland includes many interesting trees.

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

Admission: £5.00
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
Old Allangrange

Old Allangrange

Munlochy IV8 8NZ
J J Gladwin
Sunday 9 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
e
T:01463 811304 office@blackislegardendesign.com
We have an ornamental garden surrounding the house (new information discovered dates it from the 17th rather than 18th Century), and a three acre productive garden with two Keder greenhouses, designed using agroforestry and permaculture principles and gardened bio-dynamically using no-dig technique. The ornamental garden has different areas with distinctive characters. There is a parterre in front of the house with informal planting, a lower garden, an ornamental propagation garden, a mound and orchard. Hedges, (pleached lime, yew, beech, box, holly and mixed species field hedges) clipped in various styles connect the different areas of the garden. We have started to remove perimeter wire fences replacing them with log hedges and brash bunds. With a keen interest in gardening for biodiversity from the soil upwards, no chemicals have been used since our arrival in 1995. The development and improvement of the garden is ongoing.
Champion Trees: Yew and sweet chestnut.

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

Admission: £7.50, children free
Charities: Flourish 60%
14 East Brighton Crescent

14 East Brighton Crescent

Portobello, Edinburgh EH15 1LR
Jim and Sue Hurford
Sunday 16 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
46
sue.hurford@gmail.com
Roughly two thirds of an acre suburban garden, developed over 40 years. People have said the following about it: 'A little bit of countryside in the town', 'Booming with green', 'A bosky bower' and 'There is such a wide range of plant material and every little corner holds a new gem'.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: The Trussell Trust 60%
Glenkyllachy

Glenkyllachy

Tomatin IV13 7YA
Mr and Mrs Philip Mackenzie
Sunday 16 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
0c7
emmaglenkyllachy@gmail.com
In a magnificent Highland glen, 1200 feet above sea level, Glenkyllachy is a beautiful garden of shrubs, herbaceous plants, rhododendrons, trees, and spectacular views down the Findhorn River. There are some rare specimens and a recently planted arboretum. Rhododendrons and bulbs flower in May/June, herbaceous plants bloom through July/August with glorious autumn colours in September and October. There is a very productive vegetable garden, poly tunnel, fruit cage and greenhouse as well as original sculptures and a Highgrove-inspired wall which provide year round interest. Featured on TV Beechgrove, in The English Garden Magazine and recently in Scottish Field (November 2023). The garden is constantly evolving with new areas being developed and planting schemes changed.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Marie Curie 60%
The Gardens of Milton of Campsie

The Gardens of Milton of Campsie

Milton of Campsie G66 8EA
The Gardeners of Milton Campsie
Sunday 23 June, 1pm - 5pm (2024)
2c467
As well as a selection of smaller gardens, all with varying interests, we are delighted that the stunning new garden, Lillyburn will be joining us for the first time in 2024.
18 James Boyle Square G66 8JN (Hugh and Vivien Pritchard): Developed from scratch a few years ago, this peaceful, colourful garden holds a wide variety of perennial plants as well as hanging baskets, a well-stocked greenhouse and summer bedding plants, all of which can be grown by anyone who loves gardening.
56 Lochiel Drive G66 8EU (James and Ann Pert): A small garden with a variety of plants in the north-facing front garden, with herbs and geraniums under the balcony made from recycled scaffold boards by the garden owner.
Lillyburn House (NEW) 21 Campsie Road G66 8EB (Ray McKenzie): A lovely mature garden with lots of interesting features including sculptures and a summer house, gravel walkways meandering through the informal layout of colourful shrubs, flowers and trees, creating a haven for wildlife. Four lawns, one with a California-style summer house with seating areas and two magnificent champion yew trees, make this an unmissable garden to visit.
Marengo Cottage 8 Campsie Road G66 8EA (Angela Welsh): A small garden with many quirky features, it contains fruit trees, a vegetable patch, paths between flower and fauna beds, a small pond and if you can spot him, a topiary rabbit.
Milton of Campsie Community Garden
Campsie Road G66 8EU: The community garden is the creation of one man covering roughly an acre of hillside beside the Glazert water. A small beach where there are otters and kingfishers, memorial gardens and various bespoke seating, make this an unmissable garden.

Directions: From Glasgow, Kirkintilloch, Bishopbriggs bus numbers X85, 89, 88. By road, B757. By SatNav use postcode G66 8EU and follow SGS yellow road signs. There is free parking at the church and at other various signposted sites. Lillyburn House is in the corner of Campsie Road and Cottonmill Drive.

Admission: £8.00, children free
Charities: The Trussell Trust: Food Bank Kirkintilloch 60%
Tyninghame House and The Walled Garden

Tyninghame House and The Walled Garden

Tyninghame House, Dunbar EH42 1XW
Mrs C Gwyn, Tyninghame Gardens Ltd
Sunday 23 June, 1pm - 5pm (2024)
3457
The formal walled garden combines the lawn, sculpture and yew hedges, an Apple Walk, extensive herbaceous planting including roses and peonies with an informal arboretum. Splendid 17th century sandstone Scottish baronial house, remodelled in 1829 by William Burn. The gardens include herbaceous border, formal rose garden, Lady Haddington’s Secret Garden with old fashioned roses and an extensive Wilderness spring garden with rhododendrons, azalea, flowering trees and bulbs. Grounds include a one mile beech avenue to the sea. The Romanesque ruin of St Baldred’s Church commands views across the Tyne Estuary and Lammermuir Hills. Tyninghame has been awarded ‘Outstanding’ for every category in the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes of Scotland.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Tyninghame Village Hall and Community SCIO 60%
House of Aigas and Field Centre

House of Aigas and Field Centre

by Beauly IV4 7AD
Sir John and Lady Lister-Kaye
Sunday 23 June & Sunday 28 July, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
2c6e
T:01463 782443 info@aigas.co.uk
The House of Aigas has a small arboretum of named Victorian specimen trees and modern additions. The garden consists of extensive rockeries, herbaceous borders, ponds and shrubs. Aigas Field Centre rangers lead regular guided walks on nature trails through woodland, moorland and around a loch.
Champion Trees: Douglas fir, Atlas cedar and Sequoiadendron giganteum

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Highland Hospice: Aird branch 60%
Gifford Bank

Gifford Bank

Gifford EH41 4JE
Mr and Mrs Austin
Saturday/Sunday, 29/30 June, 1pm - 5pm (2024)
2457
Gifford Bank is a Georgian house set in four acres on the edge of the village. Lawns to the front and side of the house are edged by woodland whilst a walled garden provides a more formal area. The four quadrants of the walled garden include a circular lawn area, raised beds for soft fruit, a herb and rose garden and an orchard. There are large herbaceous borders on all four sides. Beautiful scented roses grow over six arches that connect the gravel path. The garden to the rear of the house includes water features and a large fire bowl planter.
This year we are supporting Gifford Village Hall (known as Gifford Community Association)

Directions: When leaving Gifford on the B6355 Edinburgh Road, Gifford Bank is the last property on the right before the de-restriction signs. Regular Gifford Circle bus service from Haddington.

Admission: £7.00, children free
Charities: Gifford Community Association 60%
Craigfoodie

Craigfoodie

Dairsie KY15 4RU
Mr and Mrs James Murray
Sunday 30 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
67
T:01334 870291
Unusually, Craigfoodie House sits within its walled garden and the garden itself is on a sloping site, with the view from the upper terraces stretching beyond the garden into the valley below. The walled garden is quartered with its clock lawn, malus lawn, parterre and extensive vegetable garden. There are many individual features - the large herbaceous border, dry rill, mixed borders, espalier fruit, pleached lime hedge and much else. Enjoy the mediterranean-style terraces, informal woodland garden, the grass tennis court and planting of young trees and shrubs (a current development area) and a stroll round the Knoll to its magnificent viewpoint. Craigfoodie has featured on The Beechgrove Garden and in articles in several national magazines.

Directions: On A91 from Cupar to St Andrews turn left at Dairsie School then follow signs.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: The Pitcairn Trust 60%
Kirkton Manor House

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn
Wednesday 3 & 10 July, 1pm - 4pm (2024)
7
T:01721 740220 rpthorburn@icloud.com
Kirkton Manor House has a delightful, three-acre, informal country garden set in the beautiful Manor Valley. It enjoys spectacular open views and calling curlews from its riverside position. Bluebells flank the impressive entrance leading to a new shrub border. Stone steps continue through to terraced slopes filled with bulbs, roses and hellebores providing height, interest and fragrance. Grass paths meander along the burn where snowdrops, blue and white camassia, meconopsis, and ligularia thrive in this sunny meadow environment. Later, in June, sisyrinchiums, irises, orchids and many flowering shrubs and roses are abundant. The natural woodland includes many interesting trees.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
Tomandroighne

Tomandroighne

Edradynate, Aberfeldy PH15 2JS
Ruth Howell
Saturday/Sunday, 27/28 July, 12pm - 4pm (2024)
27
Tomandroighne is a garden of just under two acres located on a steep bank overlooking the River Tay. Quirky sculptures, stonework and salvaged items add interest as this challenging site is gradually improved. The garden hosts a collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, flowering in sequence late spring and early summer. A spring-fed water garden is home to many bog-loving plants including gunnera, rodgersia, candelabra primulas and ligularia. In May a carpet of native Scottish bluebells gives way to herbaceous planting and flowering shrubs which give colour and texture all summer. There are many quiet areas for peaceful contemplation.

Directions: Coming from the A9, take the Ballinluig exit heading for Aberfeldy. At Grandtully turn right, crossing the River Tay via the metal bridge to Strathtay. From there turn left, following the signs to Cluny House Gardens for about three miles alongside the river. At the turning to Cluny House Gardens, turn right and then immediately left up a short steep drive. Tomandroighne is the white house at the top of the steep bank. Please note the SATNAV map location is not correct, we are about a quarter of a mile east of the location given, at the bottom of the road up to Cluny House Gardens.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: The Aberfeldy Dementia-Friendly Collaborative 60%
Pitlochie House

Pitlochie House

Gateside KY14 7SQ
George & Fay Orr
Sunday 28 July, 10am - 6pm (2024)
2c69
T:07730135953
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%
Langwell

Langwell

Berriedale KW7 6HD
Welbeck Estates
Sunday 28 July, 12pm - 4pm (2024)
67
T:01593 751278 / 751237 caithness@welbeck.co.uk
A beautiful and spectacular old walled garden with outstanding borders situated in the secluded Langwell Strath. Charming wooded access drive with a chance to see deer. 

Directions: Turn off the A9 at Berriedale Braes, up the private (tarred) drive signposted Private - Langwell House. It is about 1¼ miles from the A9. 

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: RNLI 60%
Dundonnell House

Dundonnell House

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QW
Dundonnell Estates
Thursday 15 August, 2pm - 5pm (2024)
c6e7
T:07789 390028 sueandwill@icloud.com
Camellias, magnolias and bulbs in spring, rhododendrons and laburnum walk in this ancient walled garden. Exciting planting in new borders gives all year colour, centred around one of the oldest yew trees in Scotland. A new water sculpture, midsummer roses, recently restored 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: Fauna & Flora International 30% & Multiple Sclerosis Society 30%
Old Allangrange

Old Allangrange

Munlochy IV8 8NZ
J J Gladwin
Sunday 18 August, 1:30pm - 5pm (2024)
e
T:01463 811304 office@blackislegardendesign.com
We have an ornamental garden surrounding the house (new information discovered dates it from the 17th rather than 18th Century), and a three acre productive garden with two Keder greenhouses, designed using agroforestry and permaculture principles and gardened bio-dynamically using no-dig technique. The ornamental garden has different areas with distinctive characters. There is a parterre in front of the house with informal planting, a lower garden, an ornamental propagation garden, a mound and orchard. Hedges, (pleached lime, yew, beech, box, holly and mixed species field hedges) clipped in various styles connect the different areas of the garden. We have started to remove perimeter wire fences replacing them with log hedges and brash bunds. With a keen interest in gardening for biodiversity from the soil upwards, no chemicals have been used since our arrival in 1995. The development and improvement of the garden is ongoing.
Champion Trees: Yew and sweet chestnut.

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

Admission: £7.50, children free
Charities: Flourish 60%
Pitlochie House

Pitlochie House

Gateside KY14 7SQ
George & Fay Orr
Sunday 1 September, 10am - 6pm (2024)
2c69
T:07730135953
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%
Burgie Arboretum

Burgie Arboretum

Between Forres and Elgin IV36 2QU
Hamish Lochore
Open daily, 8am - 5pm (2024)
7
T:01343 850231 hamish@burgie.org
A rare opportunity to see a sizeable woodland garden/arboretum in its infancy. It has a good collection of rhododendrons, Sorbus, alder, birch and Tilia but also includes many unusual trees from around the world. The arboretum is zoned into geographic areas and species type. It includes a Japanese Garden, bog garden, bog wood, loch and quarry garden. First created in 2005 and is ongoing. Most plants are grown from hand-collected seed and propagated in the Georgian greenhouse.

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

Admission: by donation
Charities: World Horse Welfare 30% & Sandpiper Trust 30%
Oldtown of Leys Garden

Oldtown of Leys Garden

Inverness IV2 6AE
David and Anne Sutherland
1 January - 30 April, 1 May - 31 October (not Thursday & Friday) & 1 November - 31 December, dawn - dusk (2024)
c467
T:01463 238238 ams@oldtownofleys.com
Established in 2003, on the outskirts of Inverness, with views over the town, this large garden of three acres has year-round interest. Spring rhododendrons and azaleas, summer herbaceous plantings, autumn trees and shrubs and winter appeal from the conifers, evergreens and structures. Features include a rockery, ponds, musical instruments, a stumpery and a new area of late summer colour.

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

Admission: by donation
Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & Highland Hospice 30%
Ardkinglas Woodland Garden

Ardkinglas Woodland Garden

Cairndow PA26 8BG
Ardkinglas Estate
Open daily, dawn - dusk (2024)
86ed7k
T:01499 600261
In a peaceful setting overlooking Loch Fyne, the garden contains one of the finest collections of rhododendrons and conifers in Britain. This includes the mightiest conifer in Europe - a silver fir - as well as many other Champion Trees. There is a gazebo with a unique scriptorium based around a collection of literary quotes. For younger visitors, the garden features a Fairy Trail, Gruffalo Trail and Snakey Slide. It is a VisitScotland 3-star garden.
Champion Trees: The mightiest conifer in Europe and others.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Angus's Garden, Barguillean

Angus's Garden, Barguillean

Taynuilt PA35 1HY
The Josephine Marshall Trust
Open daily, 9am - dusk (2024)
7k
T:01866 822333 info@barguillean.co.uk
Created in 1957 as a memorial garden by Betty Macdonald of Barguillean for her son Angus, this picturesque nine acre woodland garden is set around the tranquil shores of Loch Angus in historic Glen Lonan. Whilst famous for its extensive collection of hybrid rhododendrons and azaleas, this glorious garden cleverly retains the natural atmosphere of the landscape. Visitors can enjoy an informal network of paths, lined with spring flowering shrubs and bulbs, through native woodland and by shoreland whilst surrounded by the magnificent views of Ben Cruachan and the mountains of Glen Etive. This unspoilt natural setting attracts a wide range of wildlife, and the eleven acre loch is home to swans and ducks. On the north-west side of the garden overlooking the loch stands Betty's bell paying tribute to her 40 years of work creating this magical garden. The garden reaches its full glory between April and the end of June but is a place of special tranquillity and charm at all times of the year. Three marked, circular walks from the car park taking between 30 minutes and 1.5 hours. Not suitable for wheelchairs.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: SSAFA Forces Help 60%
Ardmaddy Castle

Ardmaddy Castle

by Oban PA34 4QY
Mr and Mrs Archie Struthers
Open daily, 9am - dusk (2024)
c57k
T:01852 300353 minette@ardmaddy.com
The gardens lie in a most spectacular setting in the centre of a horseshoe valley sheltered by mixed mature woodlands and the elevated castle standing on a volcanic mound to seaward. The walled garden is full of magnificent rhododendrons, a collection of rare and unusual shrubs and plants, the clock garden with its cutting flowers, the crevice garden, a NEW border with grasses and coastal theme, fruit and vegetables grown with labour saving formality, all within dwarf box hedging. Beyond, a woodland walk, with its 60-foot Hydrangea petiolaris, leads to the water garden which in spring has a mantle of bluebells and daffodils and in early summer a riot of Primula candelabra, irises, rodgersias and other damp-loving plants and grasses. Lovely autumn colour. A plantsman’s garden for all seasons.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Ardtornish

Ardtornish

by Lochaline, Morvern PA80 5UZ
Mrs John Raven
Open daily, 10am - 6pm (2024)
867k
Ardtornish Estate spreads out around Loch Aline, a huge, wooded, U-shaped bay, a natural haven. Wonderful gardens of interesting mature conifers, rhododendrons, deciduous trees, shrubs and herbaceous plantings, set amid magnificent scenery. Much of the garden is covered by native birch, alongside extensive planting of exotic species, under mature groups of larch, firs and pine, whose strong form and colour complement the pink sandstone towers and gables of Ardtornish House.

Directions: Three miles from Lochaline along the A884.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Achnacloich

Achnacloich

Connel, Oban PA37 1PR
Mr T M Nelson
Open daily (Saturday only), 10am - 4pm (2024)
6dk
T:01631 710223 or Gardener David Field 07929 336217 davefield6@hotmail.co.uk & cassandhu@gmail.com
The 20-acre woodland garden overlooking Loch Etive has been planted over the last century with a wide range of trees and shrubs from Asia, China, Japan, North America, Chile and New Zealand. Many have grown to considerable size. The light woodland canopy consists of native oaks and a number of magnificent 150-year-old Scots pines and European larch. Amongst these are open glades, carpeted with bluebells and numerous other bulbs. Two ponds and streams are planted with primulas, iris species, lysichitum, and astilbes. The woodland contains innumerable species of rhododendron and azalea, of which the triflorums and yunnanense are outstanding. Amongst these are species of acer, betula, camellia, cercidiphyllum, cornus, crinodendron, drimys, embothrium, enkianthus, eucryphia, hoheria, magnolia, malus, nothofagus, pieris, sorbus, stewartia, telopea and viburnum. Beside the house is a giant Douglas fir from Douglas' original introduction. One of the first Dawyck beeches stands beside the drive. Fine autumn colours.

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%
Abriachan Garden Nursery

Abriachan Garden Nursery

Loch Ness Side IV3 8LA
Mr and Mrs Davidson
1 February - 30 November, 9am - 5pm (2024)
bc467
T:01463 861232 info@lochnessgarden.com
This is an outstanding garden with over four acres of exciting plantings with winding paths through native woodlands. Seasonal highlights include snowdrops, hellebores, primulas, meconopsis, hardy geraniums and colour-themed summer beds. Views over Loch Ness.

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

Admission: £4.00, children free
Charities: Highland Hospice 60%
Kinlochlaich Walled Garden

Kinlochlaich Walled Garden

Appin PA38 4BD
Miss F M M Hutchison
3 March - 31 October, 10am - 4pm (2024)
45k
T:07881 525754 fionakinlochlaich@gmail.com
Octagonal walled garden incorporating a large Nursery Garden Centre with a huge variety of plants growing and for sale. Bluebell woodland walk and spring garden. Many rhododendrons, azaleas, trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants, including many unusual ones such as embothrium, davidia, stewartia, magnolia, eucryphia and tropaeolum. A quarter of the interior of the walled garden is borders packed with many unusual and interesting plants, espaliered fruit trees, and with an ancient yew in the centre, and another quarter is vegetable growing.

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

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

Glenarn

Glenarn Road, Rhu, Helensburgh G84 8LL
Michael and Sue Thornley
21 March - 21 September, dawn - dusk (2024)
46ed7
T:01436 820493 masthome@btinternet.com
Glenarn survives as a complete example of a ten-acre garden which spans from 1850 to the present day. There are winding paths through miniature glens under a canopy of oaks and limes, sunlit open spaces, a vegetable garden with beehives, and a rock garden full of surprise and season-long colour. The famous collections of rare and tender rhododendrons and magnolias give way in midsummer to roses rambling through the trees and climbing hydrangeas, followed by the starry white flowers of hoherias and eucryphias to the end of the season. There is a Silent Space at the top of the garden with views over the Gareloch.
Champion Trees: Notably Magnolia rostrata

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 and Shandon Parish Church of Scotland: Tower Appeal 60%
Inveraray Castle Gardens

Inveraray Castle Gardens

Inveraray PA32 8XF
The Duke and Duchess of Argyll
28 March - 28 October, 10am - 5pm (2024)
146d
T:01499 302203 manager@inveraray-castle.com
With Inverary Castle as an imposing backdrop, the 16 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.

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: £9.00, children free
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
The Secret Garden

The Secret Garden

Isle of Lismore, Oban, Argyll PA34 5UL
Eva Tombs
1 April - 1 October (Wednesday & Saturday), 10am - 4pm (2024)
T:07786 374931 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: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
An Cala

An Cala

Ellenabeich, Isle of Seil PA34 4RF
Mrs Sheila Downie
1 April - 31 October, 10am - 6pm (2024)
46d7
A wonderful example of a 1930s designed garden, An Cala sits snugly in its horseshoe shelter of surrounding cliffs. A spectacular and very pretty garden with streams, waterfall, ponds, many herbaceous plants as well as azaleas, rhododendrons and cherry trees in spring. Archive material of Thomas Mawson’s design was found recently and is available to visitors.

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: Cancer Research UK 60%
Glenkyllachy

Glenkyllachy

Tomatin IV13 7YA
Mr and Mrs Philip Mackenzie
1 April - 31 October (Monday & Tuesday), 10am - dusk (2024)
7
emmaglenkyllachy@gmail.com
In a magnificent Highland glen, 1200 feet above sea level, Glenkyllachy is a beautiful garden of shrubs, herbaceous plants, rhododendrons, trees, and spectacular views down the Findhorn River. There are some rare specimens and a recently planted arboretum. Rhododendrons and bulbs flower in May/June, herbaceous plants bloom through July/August with glorious autumn colours in September and October. There is a very productive vegetable garden, poly tunnel, fruit cage and greenhouse as well as original sculptures and a Highgrove-inspired wall which provide year round interest. Featured on TV Beechgrove, in The English Garden Magazine and recently in Scottish Field (November 2023). The garden is constantly evolving with new areas being developed and planting schemes changed.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Marie Curie 60%
Dunvegan Castle and Gardens

Dunvegan Castle and Gardens

Isle of Skye IV55 8WF
Hugh Macleod of Macleod
1 April - 15 October, 10am - 5:30pm (2024)
38467
T:01470 521206 info@dunvegancastle.com
Any visit to the Isle of Skye is incomplete without enjoying the wealth of history and horticultural delights at award-winning 5* Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, now an RHS partner garden. The five acres of formal gardens began life in the 18th century. In stark contrast to the barren moorland and mountains which dominate Skye's landscape, the Castle's Water Garden, Round Garden, Walled Garden and woodland walks provide an oasis for an eclectic mix of flowers, exotic plants, shrubs and specimen trees, framed by shimmering pools fed from waterfalls. After visiting the Water Garden with its ornate bridges and islands replete with colourful plants along the riverbanks, wander through the elegant formal Round Garden. The Walled Garden, formerly the Castle's vegetable garden, now has a diverse range of plants and flowers completing the attractive features, including a water lily pond, garden museum, 17th century lectern sundial, glass house and the 'Dunvegan Pebble', a rotating 2.7 ton Carrara marble sculpture. The informal areas of the garden are kept wild to encourage wildlife, creating a more natural aesthetic framed by the coastal scenery. The present Chief, Hugh MacLeod, and his dedicated team of gardeners, continue to build on this unique legacy for future generations to enjoy.

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

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Floors Castle

Floors Castle

Kelso TD5 7SF
The Duke of Roxburghe
1 May - 30 September, 10am - 5pm (2024)
36d7
T:01573 223333
The gardens are situated within the grounds of Floors Castle. Meander through to the formal Millennium Parterre and soak up the spectacular visions of colour, texture and the most delicious scents around the four herbaceous borders in one of the finest Victorian kitchen gardens in Scotland. Features include perennial gardens, fruit cage, Tapestry Garden and glasshouse access as well as the Terrace Cafe, Apple Shed Gift Shop and Deli and children’s play area. Explore the grounds, which offer woodland and riverside walks from May to the end of September.

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

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Leathad Ard

Leathad Ard

Upper Carloway, Isle of Lewis HS2 9AQ
Rowena and Stuart Oakley
1 May - 30 September (not Sunday), 10am - 6pm (2024)
c47
T:01851 643204 leathad.ard@gmail.com
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%
The Castle and Gardens of Mey

The Castle and Gardens of Mey

Mey KW14 8XH
The Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust
1 May - 30 September, 10:30am - 4pm (closed late July and early August, please check website for specific dates). (2024)
36k
T:01847 851473 enquiries@castleofmey.org.uk
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, bought what was then Barrogill Castle in 1952 before renovating and restoring the z-plan castle and creating the beautiful gardens you see today; renaming it The Castle and Gardens of Mey. This romantic and unique garden is a reminder that, however daunting the weather, it is often possible with a little vision and energy to create and maintain a garden in the most unlikely of locations. The castle now includes an animal centre, gift shop and tearoom serving delicious locally sourced food and drinks, often using produce from the castle’s very own gardens. 

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

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Balmeanach House

Balmeanach House

Balmeanach, nr Struan, Isle of Skye IV56 8FH
Mrs Arlene Macphie
1 May - 2 October, 11am - 4pm (2024)
2c7k
T:01470 572320 info@skye-holiday.com
Very much a plantsman's garden, begun in the early 1990s after a third-of-an-acre of croft land was fenced. A shelter belt now permits a plethora of diverse plants in exuberant herbaceous borders, which give nectar and pollen to keep the buzzing and fluttering going until autumn, plus rockeries and raised beds. Native trees rub shoulders with more exotic ornamental varieties, providing a canopy for shade-loving plants and nesting sites for the many birds who make the garden their home. A small pond in a sunken garden; a larger pond divided in two by a path over a culvert and a bog garden, give scope for marginal and moisture-loving plants. Meandering pathways lead through a small bluebell wood, an arbour garden, shrubbery and small birch wood, full of azaleas and rhododendrons. Plenty of seating throughout provides an invitation to sit, relax and enjoy the garden and stunning scenery beyond.

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

Admission: £4.00, children free
Charities: Scottish SPCA 30% & Redwings 30%
Dunninald Castle

Dunninald Castle

Montrose DD10 9TD
The Stansfeld family
1 May - 31 August (Monday, Tuesday & Sunday), 1pm - 5pm (2024)
6d7
T:01674 672031 estateoffice@dunninald.com
We welcome our visitors to explore our 100 acres of woods, wild garden, policies and a walled garden. From January to May, the main interest is the wild garden and policies where snowdrops in January are followed by daffodils and finally bluebells in May. In June, the emphasis turns to the walled garden, rich in interest and colour throughout the summer. Situated at the bottom of the beech avenue, the walled garden is planted with rose borders, traditional mixed borders, vegetables, herbs, soft fruits and fruit trees and there is a greenhouse.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Barholm Castle

Barholm Castle

Gatehouse of Fleet DG7 2EZ
Drs John and Janet Brennan
By arrangement (2024)
b467
T:01557 840327 barholmcastle@gmail.com
Barholm Castle, a 16th-century tower, was restored from a ruin in 2006. 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 up a steep narrow road for half-a-mile. 

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Home-Start Wigtownshire 60%
The Secret Garden

The Secret Garden

Isle of Lismore, Oban, Argyll PA34 5UL
Eva Tombs
By arrangement between 1 January - 1 December (2024)
3c
T:07786 374931 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: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
Glenkyllachy

Glenkyllachy

Tomatin IV13 7YA
Mr and Mrs Philip Mackenzie
By arrangement (2024)
7
emmaglenkyllachy@gmail.com
In a magnificent Highland glen, 1200 feet above sea level, Glenkyllachy is a beautiful garden of shrubs, herbaceous plants, rhododendrons, trees, and spectacular views down the Findhorn River. There are some rare specimens and a recently planted arboretum. Rhododendrons and bulbs flower in May/June, herbaceous plants bloom through July/August with glorious autumn colours in September and October. There is a very productive vegetable garden, poly tunnel, fruit cage and greenhouse as well as original sculptures and a Highgrove-inspired wall which provide year round interest. Featured on TV Beechgrove, in The English Garden Magazine and recently in Scottish Field (November 2023). The garden is constantly evolving with new areas being developed and planting schemes changed.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Marie Curie 60%
Delvine

Delvine

Murthly PH1 4LD
Mr and Mrs David Gemmell
By arrangement between 2 January - 29 December (2024)
67
T:07748 207647 gemmell.david@googlemail.com
The gardens and arboretum at Delvine cover about 20 acres. The old gardens are on the Inchtuthil plateau, leading down to the more recent garden and arboretum which 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 departs from the traditional and enters an area of great drifts of chimonobambusa and miscanthus grasses with water and wildlife in abundance. The walking is easy. This garden will appeal to those seeking the unusual and also for those with an adventurous spirit.

Directions: On the A984, seven miles east of Dunkeld, four miles south-west of Blairgowrie.

Admission: by donation
Charities: ABF The Soldiers' Charity 60%
Barhill

Barhill

Borgue, Kirkcudbright DG6 4UE
Guy and Jenny Houlsby
By arrangement between 1 February - 19 May (2024)
b09
T:07743 504981 jenny.houlsby@gmail.com
The garden was laid out around 1900, but had been left untouched for many years. Restoration is a work in progress with many areas still in their natural state. The garden has a lake, woodland and planted areas, including a bog garden, rockery, heather hill, herbaceous and shrub borders. There are extensive areas of snowdrops early in the year; these have been spreading and hybridising for about 100 years. The snowdrops are followed by displays of daffodils, primroses and bluebells. The garden has a healthy wildlife population and attractive views of the Isles of Fleet.

Directions: From the south take the coast road from Borgue. About 500m after “Coo Palace” the road dips into woods. The entrance is on the left 50m after some prominent white iron gates. From the north follow signs towards Carrick. Approaching the coast, with Knockbrex House ahead, stay left at the Y junction, pass Knockbrex and the entrance is next on the right after 200m. Parking is at the house.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Loch Arthur 60%
The Pond Garden

The Pond Garden

Pond Cottage, Middleton, Milnathort KY13 0SD
Fay Young & Ray Perman
By arrangement between 1 February - 31 December (2024)
67
T:07767 407396 fay@fayyoung.org
A wild woodland and wetland garden creatively adapting to challenges of climate change. We learn from resilient plants and thriving communities of birds, bats, bees, butterflies, red squirrels, swans and other wildlife. Woodland paths lead through seasonal highlights: snowdrops, daffodils, bluebells, foxgloves and ferns. Grand old beeches and oaks mark boundaries of former Victorian estate. Since mid 1990s we have rebuilt and recently retrofitted derelict farm cottage with external insulation and renewable energy. New plantings of native trees add spring and autumn colour. There are stone and willow features to discover and benches to rest by the pond.

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

Admission: £5.50, children free
Charities: CHAS: Children's Hospices Across Scotland 60%
Kirkton Manor House

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn
By arrangement between 14 February - 10 July (2024)
7
T:01721 740220 rpthorburn@icloud.com
Kirkton Manor House has a delightful, three-acre, informal country garden set in the beautiful Manor Valley. It enjoys spectacular open views and calling curlews from its riverside position. Bluebells flank the impressive entrance leading to a new shrub border. Stone steps continue through to terraced slopes filled with bulbs, roses and hellebores providing height, interest and fragrance. Grass paths meander along the burn where snowdrops, blue and white camassia, meconopsis, and ligularia thrive in this sunny meadow environment. Later, in June, sisyrinchiums, irises, orchids and many flowering shrubs and roses are abundant. The natural woodland includes many interesting trees.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
Tal-y-Fan

Tal-y-Fan

Laurieston Road, Gatehouse of Fleet, Kirkcudbrightshire DG7 2BE
Janet & Sarah Wood
By arrangement between 1 March - 31 October (2024)
9
T:01557 815287 woodhill2uk@yahoo.co.uk
An over mature one acre plot is being developed into a many faceted garden with a varied mix of interesting plants. The Secret Path leads to Acer Valley and the Won-Kei Parterre, overlooked by the Loch Corbie Monster. A narrow log-lined way leads to West Wood, from where you follow the Burnside Path by the Flame Tree Forest and through the bamboo arch to Dry Wood to find Wood's Henge. Then up through Bluebell Wood to the top of The Rock, where Big Red, the giant squirrel resides, with views across the Fleet Valley. Back down and cross the lawns below the pond before heading up the granite path to the greenhouse, polytunnel, compost bins and the car park, with its collection of pots and troughs. Visit the front lawn and its well-stocked beds on your way out. Light refreshments may be available by arrangement.

Directions: Take the Laurieston Road north from Gatehouse of Fleet. After 1 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
Luckie Harg's

Luckie Harg's

Anwoth, Gatehouse of Fleet, Castle Douglas DG7 2EF
Drs Carole and Ian Bainbridge
By arrangement between 1 March - 30 September (2024)
467
T:01557 814141 luckiehargs@btinternet.com
A new and developing garden on the outskirts of Gatehouse of Fleet. A rock and spring herbaceous garden of around an acre, with a wide range of alpines, Himalayan and New Zealand plants, shrubs and small trees. There is a rock garden, modern crevice gardens, troughs, a large alpine house and bulb frame. New boulder, scree and stumpery beds, a pond and a woodland area are being developed. Small productive vegetable and fruit garden, plus a bluebell bank in May.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Scottish Rock Garden Club 60%
The Steading at Clunie

The Steading at Clunie

The Steading PH10 6SG
Jean and Dave Trudgill
By arrangement between 26 March - 7 July (2024)
67
T:01250 884263 davetrudgill@googlemail.com
The Steading at Newmill is on the north bank of the Lunan Burn midway between Lochs Clunie and Marlee. There are paths that extend for 800yds along the Lunan, a small, colourful cottage garden with a fish pond, and 6 acres of woodland, ponds and a wildflower meadow. There are banks of wild daffodils that are at their best in early April. By early May there are primroses, carpets of cuckoo flower, wood anemones, and cowslips in the meadow. Mid-May sees some of the banks covered with bluebells. In the meadow there are 14 species of wild orchids that come into flower from mid-May until early July. A video of Newmill, lasting 8 minutes, can be seen by going to Youtube and searching for ‘Newmill: creating and managing an orchid meadow’

Directions: Three miles west of Blairgowrie on the A923. About 600 metres west of the Kinloch Hotel take the track on the left, just after a mobile phone mast and a breeze-block wall.

Admission: by donation
Charities: Save the Children UK 60%
Savat

Savat

Meikle Richorn, Dalbeattie DG5 4QT
George Thomas
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (not Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday) (2024)
67
T:01556 612863 Mob. 07866 392150 georgethomas6@icloud.com
A generally informal garden of about two-thirds of an acre with mature trees, exposed Dalbeattie granite and winding paths. The garden houses a unique summerhouse, artist Sue Thomas’s studio and a greenhouse. Planting caters for sun to shade and dry to very moist, with shrubs – including rhododendrons, herbaceous and minimal summer bedding with an eye to keeping maintenance requirements to a minimum! There is a paved area around the house in which there are two water features, and may display potted plants.

Directions: Leave Dalbeattie along the A710 south towards Kippford. After about 1.7 miles pass Gorsebank on the left and 200 yards further on turn right into a large lay-by. Enter the lane marked with cul de sac signs and proceed straight ahead along the paved road for about 500 yards. Limited parking is available at the property entrance. Savat is the sixth house on the left.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
House of Aigas and Field Centre

House of Aigas and Field Centre

by Beauly IV4 7AD
Sir John and Lady Lister-Kaye
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2024)
6e
T:01463 782443 info@aigas.co.uk
The House of Aigas has a small arboretum of named Victorian specimen trees and modern additions. The garden consists of extensive rockeries, herbaceous borders, ponds and shrubs. Aigas Field Centre rangers lead regular guided walks on nature trails through woodland, moorland and around a loch.
Champion Trees: Douglas fir, Atlas cedar and Sequoiadendron giganteum

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Highland Hospice: Aird branch 60%
Kilsyth Gardens

Kilsyth Gardens

Allanfauld Road G65 9DE
Mr George Murdoch, Mr and Mrs Alan Patrick
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 August (2024)
2c8467
T:07743 110908 alan.patrick3@googlemail.com
Aeolia Allanfauld Road, Kilsyth G65 9DE (Mr George Murdoch): A third-of-an-acre woodland garden developed since 1960 and designed to have something in flower every month of the year. The garden contains a large variety of mature specimen trees and shrubs, maples, primulas, hardy geraniums and herbaceous plants. Spring bulbs provide early colour and lilies and dahlias provide late season interest. There are a couple of small ponds for wildlife, two greenhouses and a fruit production area. The owner is a member of the Scottish Rhododendron Society and has a collection of over 100 specimens, some grown from seed. Areas of the garden are often under development to provide something new to see and provide material for the extensive plant sale, which is all home grown. 
Blackmill Allanfauld Road, Kilsyth G65 9DE (Mr and Mrs A Patrick): Across the road from Aeolia is Blackmill through which the Garrel Burn flows. The garden includes the magnificent seven-metre waterfall with its ever-changing moods throughout the year. On one side of the property, on the site of an old water-powered sickle mill, is an acre of mature specimen trees, rhododendrons and shrubs with an ornamental pond and a rock pool built into the remains of the mill building. Across the burn there is a further two acres of woodland glen with paths along the waterside offering glimpses of the many cascading waterfalls. A large area of wildflowers has been newly introduced alongside the burn. A micro-hydro scheme is on view, along with many different examples of dry stone walls. Visitors remark on the sense of tranquillity and peace they experience in the garden and appreciate the works of art created from repurposed stone and salvaged material.

Directions: Turn off the A803 into Parkburn Road up to the crossroads (parking attendant will advise on parking). The 89 bus Glasgow - Kilsyth has a stop at the crossroads a couple of minutes walk to the gardens. The nearest station is Croy, then take the bus 147 or 344 to Kilsyth. 

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Strathcarron Hospice 60%
Corsock House

Corsock House

Corsock, Castle Douglas DG7 3DJ
The Ingall family
By arrangement between 1 April - 30 June (2024)
67
T:01644 440250 jingall@hotmail.com
Corsock House garden includes an amazing variety of designed landscape, from a strictly formal walled garden, through richly planted woodlands full of different vistas, artfully designed water features and surprises to extensive lawns showing off the Bryce baronial mansion. This is an Arcadian garden with pools and temples, described by Ken Cox as ‘perhaps my favourite of Scotland’s many woodland gardens’. 

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Corsock & Kirkpatrick Durham Church Of Scotland 60%
South Flisk

South Flisk

Blebo Craigs, Cupar KY15 5UQ
Mr and Mrs George Young
By arrangement between 1 April - 30 June (2024)
2c46
T:01334 850859 southfliskgarden@gmail.com
The spectacular views to Perthshire and Angus, and the large flooded quarry full of fish (and occasional otter) and 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 until 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 be demonstrating his pottery skills for those who need a break from the garden! A new water garden with a stream running through it 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 saying Blebo Craigs. See map on our website. Bus to Blebo Craigs.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 60%
Leathad Ard

Leathad Ard

Upper Carloway, Isle of Lewis HS2 9AQ
Rowena and Stuart Oakley
By arrangement between 1 April - 30 April (2024)
47
T:01851 643204 leathad.ard@gmail.com
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%
Rosewells

Rosewells

Baldinnie, Ceres KY15 5LE
Birgitta and Gordon MacDonald
By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2024)
67
g.macdonald54@hotmail.co.uk
Rosewells, designed by the garden owners, has developed over the last 25 years. It started as a one-and-a-half acre, overgrown paddock. The design is based on the texture and foliage of trees and shrubs to create year-round interest. In spring and summer, colour and scent become increasingly important. In spring, highlights are around 55 magnolias and rhododendrons, many of which are chosen for their foliage. Other highlights include flowering cornus, trillium, fritillaries, erythroniums, peonies, roses, ferns and acers. There have been a number of developments in recent years. More winding paths have been developed creating wildlife friendly areas. There is a new lavender walk which leads to a covered seating area at the bottom of the garden.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Save the Children UK 60%
Kirklands

Kirklands

Saline KY12 9TS
Peter and Gill Hart
By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2024)
2c8467
T:07787 115477 peter@kirklandsgarden.co.uk
Kirklands, built in 1832, has been the Hart family home for 46 years. Over the years we have created a garden. The walled garden was reinstated from a paddock including terracing and raised beds. In 2023 we introduced two bee hives. Unfortunately, our box hedges in the walled garden and elsewhere are being removed due to box blight, but it gives us the opportunity to make some changes! The woodland garden starts in February with snowdrops then bluebells, hellebores, trilliums, fritillaries, rhododendrons, meconopsis and candelabra primulas. The rockery displays dwarf rhododendrons and azaleas. The herbaceous borders reach their peak in the summer. Down by the Saline Burn, the bog garden is home to a giant Gunnera manicata. Over the red or blue bridge there are 20 acres of naturally regenerating woodland with a pathway by the stream. To keep the grandchildren occupied, Peter built a tree house, climbing frame and rope swing, though we hope they will take an interest in gardening too!

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
Dundonnell House

Dundonnell House

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QW
Dundonnell Estates
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2024)
6e7
T:07789 390028 sueandwill@icloud.com
Camellias, magnolias and bulbs in spring, rhododendrons and laburnum walk in this ancient walled garden. Exciting planting in new borders gives all year colour, centred around one of the oldest yew trees in Scotland. A new water sculpture, midsummer roses, recently restored 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: Fauna & Flora International 30% & Multiple Sclerosis Society 30%
Auldbyres Farm Garden

Auldbyres Farm Garden

Coylton KA6 6HG
Marshall and Sue Veitch
By arrangement between 13 April - 2 September (2024)
67
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%
Wraes

Wraes

Corseliehill Road, nr Houston PA6 7HU
Tim and Jo Mack
By arrangement between 1 May - 1 September (2024)
7k
T:07985 156555 jomack22@gmail.com
Varied seven acre rural garden with far reaching views and a variety of planting areas designed to take advantage of the natural terrain and be actively wildlife friendly. Raised formal herbaceous beds, several wildlife ponds, burnside walks, grass maze, spring garden, woodland with rhododendron collection (100 species). For those interested in growing their own food, there is a large no-dig productive area, with vegetables, fruit cage, orchard and wildflower meadow. There are lots of seating places to relax and enjoy the tranquility while the kids tackle the maze or just have a good run around!

Directions: From Houston follow Barochan Road towards Langbank B789 for about a mile, turn left down Corseliehill Road. From Kilmacolm leave the village on Houston Road, past the golf course, turn left down Corseliehill Road for about a mile.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Breast Cancer Care 60%
Ardno

Ardno

Cairndow PA26 8BE
Denzil How
By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2024)
7
T:Rob Backhouse Gardener 01499 302304 denzil.how@btconnect.com
From the rich, varied landscape, a romantic garden has been created from scratch over the past 25 years. Visitors can stroll in the walled garden near the house, or explore the old oak wood planted with many interesting shrubs. These are growing up fast, adding shape and colour. Across the burn is the gorge and a wonderful waterfall. The woodland garden ends in the meadow, planted with irises and a collection of unusual trees, which continues down to the beach and a magnificent huge rock. My garden is a place to be peaceful in. Come and enjoy, but be prepared as some of the paths are steep with lots of steps and are unfortunately not suitable for wheelchairs.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Rediweld Foundation 60%
Waterside Garden

Waterside Garden

Moffat DG10 9LF
Ronnie Cann
By arrangement between 1 May - 30 August (2024)
6
T:07714230235 rtdcann@gmail.com
Set in beautiful Moffatdale and bounded on one side by the Moffat Water, Waterside Garden is a plantsman's delight, home to woods, riverside walks and three acres of cultivated garden. There are many mature trees including oak, birch, beech and much more. Collections of species and hybrid rhododendrons and azaleas, bamboos, and other flowering shrubs give year-round interest. There are herbaceous beds, giving colour in spring and summer, alpines, mixed plantings, spring bulbs, especially daffodils, and wildflower meadows.

Directions: Three miles north of Moffat on the A708 opposite Craigieburn Forest Car Park. From Selkirk the garden is about 14.5 miles south of St Mary's Loch.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Moffat Water Hall 60%
Braevallich Farm

Braevallich Farm

by Dalmally PA33 1BU
Mr Philip Bowden-Smith
By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2024)
7
T:01866 844246 philip@brae.co.uk
Discover two gardens, one at the farm and an upper garden further up the hill. The former is approximately one and a half acres and developed over the last 40 years. Its principal features include dwarf rhododendron, azaleas (evergreen and deciduous), large drifts of various primula and meconopsis and bluebells, and mixed herbaceous perennials/shrubs; there is also quite a serious kitchen garden. The second garden has been developed over the last 30 years out of a birch and sessile oak wood and is a traditional west coast glen garden intersected by two pretty burns with waterfalls. The garden has been extended over the last few years and now covers nearly ten acres with extensive new paths, and a suspension bridge over the ravine. Whilst the plants are important, many say that it is the topography with its differing vistas which make this garden such a peaceful and special place.

Directions: South-east of Loch Awe on the B840, 15 miles from Cladich, seven miles from Ford.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Mary's Meals 60%
Dal an Eas

Dal an Eas

Kilmore, Oban PA34 4XU
Mary Lindsay
By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2024)
2c7
T:01631 770246 dalaneas@live.com
An informal country garden with the aim of increasing the biodiversity of native plants and insects while adding interest and colour with introduced trees, shrubs and naturalised perennials. There is a structured garden round the house and beyond there are extensive flower-filled ‘meadows’ with five different species of native orchid. Grass paths lead to waterfalls, vegetable plot, woodland garden, views and ancient archaeological sites.

Directions: From Oban take the A816 to Kilmore three-and-a-half miles south of Oban. Turn left on the road to Barran and Musdale. Keep left at the junction for Connel. Dal an Eas is approximately one mile on the left before the big hedges.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
Old Allangrange

Old Allangrange

Munlochy IV8 8NZ
J J Gladwin
By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2024)
e
T:01463 811304 office@blackislegardendesign.com
We have an ornamental garden surrounding the house (new information discovered dates it from the 17th rather than 18th Century), and a three acre productive garden with two Keder greenhouses, designed using agroforestry and permaculture principles and gardened bio-dynamically using no-dig technique. The ornamental garden has different areas with distinctive characters. There is a parterre in front of the house with informal planting, a lower garden, an ornamental propagation garden, a mound and orchard. Hedges, (pleached lime, yew, beech, box, holly and mixed species field hedges) clipped in various styles connect the different areas of the garden. We have started to remove perimeter wire fences replacing them with log hedges and brash bunds. With a keen interest in gardening for biodiversity from the soil upwards, no chemicals have been used since our arrival in 1995. The development and improvement of the garden is ongoing.
Champion Trees: Yew and sweet chestnut.

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

Admission: £7.50, children free
Charities: Flourish 60%
Madeira

Madeira

Grangemuir, Pittenweem KY10 2RB
Tara Macdonald
By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (Tuesday, Thursday & Friday) (2024)
47
T:07867 798746 tara@madeirainfife.com
Madeira is a wonderful, ten-acre eco garden with a Victorian walled garden at its centre. We have an orchard and vegetable garden, pretty paths through woodland and plenty of bluebells and snowdrops. We don’t use chemicals and fully support wildlife and the habitat they live in; the bee garden and our wilding areas are just two examples. The garden is a work in progress and we are continually creating spaces and fun things for kids to enjoy e.g. our dragon's den, Viking shelter, rope swings and more. We grow our own vegetables and love turning our fruit into juices, jellies, jams and ice-cream. We’d be delighted to show you round or let you wander and enjoy.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
Ormsary Gardens

Ormsary Gardens

Ormsary, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8PE
Lady Lithgow
By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2024)
67
T:01880 770738 mclithgow@ormsary.co.uk
Ormsary is on the shore of Loch Caolisport looking across to Islay and Jura. The house policies are resplendent in spring with bluebells and daffodils under fine oak trees. There are woodland gardens with azaleas, rhododendrons and a collection of trees and shrubs. The walled garden, which has evolved over a couple of centuries, is on two levels. The top half is a kitchen garden producing plants, fruit and vegetables for the house; a winter garden and ‘Muscat of Alexandria’ vinery have been heated by hydroelectric power for 100 years. A magnificent Polylepis australis beckons to the lower Secret Garden with its lawn, roses, magnolias and long mixed border. It opens onto the banks of Ormsary Water. There are also woodland walks accessed via the upper woodland garden with specimens of Wollemi Pine, Gingko and Turkish Oak.

Directions: Take the A83 road from Lochgilphead towards Campbeltown for four miles, then take the B8024 signposted to Kilberry, travel ten miles and follow signs to the Estate Office for directions to the garden.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Mary's Meals 60%
Clonyard Farm

Clonyard Farm

Colvend, Dalbeattie DG5 4QW
Matthew and Pam Pumphrey
By arrangement between 15 June - 30 June (2024)
0467
clonyard@btinternet.com
Open by arrangement for wildflowers. Informal garden around traditional stone buildings with views over pasture, wetland and a loch to mature mixed forest. The garden joins a wildflower meadow dominated by black knapweed and established yellow rattle. It features three species of native orchids and a former mill pond, a notable damselfly site. Both are maintained specifically to allow native wildlife and plants to thrive. There is an ornamental vegetable garden and around the house mixed plantings merge from sun to shade and woodland planting to provide all-year-round interest. There are meadow, wetland and woodland walks to two lochs and a crannog. Refreshments available on request.

Directions: On the north side of the A710 approximately four miles from the crossroads with the A711 in Dalbeattie, adjacent to Clonyard House Hotel and one mile from Colvend village. Parking at the Farm. Bus service from Dalbeattie but current timetables should be checked. Clonyard Farm is a request stop.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Marie Curie: DG5 Group 60%