Garden Openings

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)

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E:frank.kirwan@gmail.com

A two-acre ornamental and wooded garden on a variety of levels, sandwiched between two burns at 600 feet, planted for 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%

Oakmore

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

Sunday 5 May & Sunday 14 July, 11am - 5pm (2024)

1c69

T:07872 068080

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Radical Weavers 60%

Knock Newhouse

Lochgair PA31 8RZ
Mrs Hew Service

Saturday/Sunday, 11/12 May & Sunday 2 June, 1pm - 5pm (2024)

2c467

T:01546 886628 E:corranmorhouse@aol.com

Like all good gardens, it has evolved over time. The garden is centred on a 250 foot lochan, a small waterfall and lily pond. The first trees and rhododendrons were planted in the 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

by Dalmally PA33 1BU
Mr Philip Bowden-Smith

Sunday 12 May & Sunday 2 June, 12:30pm - 5:30pm (2024)

2c7

T:01866 844246 E: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%

18 Buchany

Doune FK16 6HG
John and Sarah Burrows

Sunday 12 May & Sunday 21 July, 1pm - 5pm (2024)

2c59

E:wackwack1@btinternet.com

This is a cottage garden with perennial and fruit tree borders, along with raised beds for vegetables. Extensive use is made of pots and tubs planted with spring bulbs, herbaceous plants, annuals as well as shrubs and vegetables making them more accessible. The owners are well known for showing prize winning vegetables and flowers at flower shows in Stirlingshire. Visit in May and you can see the start of this process and then come back to the second open day in July to see the results of the TLC this garden has had.

Directions: As there is no parking available at the garden, visitors must go to Moray Estate Office FK16 6HG which is situated on the A84, 1.5 miles west of Doune through Buchany towards Callander. Turn into the Estate Office grounds where visitors can take the shuttle bus to the garden.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: British Heart Foundation 60%

Willowhill

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

Saturday 1 June & Monday 3 June, 1pm - 5pm (2024)

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T:01382 542890 E:e.g.wright@dundee.ac.uk

W:www.willowhillgarden.weebly.com

An evolving three-acre garden. The house is surrounded by a series of mixed borders designed with different vibrant colour combinations for effect in all seasons. Spectacular mix of roses, herbaceous perennials and annuals planted through the wide borders are a highlight in mid to late summer. A new ‘no dig’ 160-foot border in shades of white, blue, purple and pale yellow was created in 2019/2020. The most recent addition to the garden is another ‘no dig’ border in shades of peach, burgundy, yellow, chocolate and acid yellow. Come and see! April and May for late spring bulbs and flowers; June and July for roses and high summer colour; August for late summer colour.

The plant stall includes a lovely selection from the garden. Visitors are welcome to bring their own refreshments and picnic in the garden. A season ticket for all these dates, and by arrangement, is £20 plus p&p and admits the ticket holder plus guest. It comes with a limited edition of the Willowhill Garden Guide: 35 pages of beautiful photographs with descriptions of key garden features and plantings. A season ticket with booklet is a perfect gift for garden lovers for a birthday or at Christmas and do treat yourself too! Season tickets are available online at tinyurl.com/4srm6rux or by post (cheque for £23 payable to Scotland’s Garden Scheme) from S. Lorimore, Willowhill, Forgan, Newport-on-Tay, Fife DD6 8RA.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Rio Community Centre: Newport-on-Tay 50%

West End Trio

3 & 12 Glamis Drive and 5 Glamis Terrace, Dundee DD2 1QL
Elaine Lowe, Frances and John Dent, and Heather MacLean

Saturday/Sunday, 1/2 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

2c46

These gardens are opening with fond memories of Frances Shepherd; she had planned to include her garden at Windyridge, 10 Glamis Drive.

Greengaites 3 Glamis Drive, Dundee DD2 1QG (Elaine Lowe): A cottage-style garden with small trees, herbaceous borders and rockeries. Interest throughout the seasons is provided with magnolia blossom and bulbs in the spring, followed by wisteria, clematis and roses climbing up the walls of this pretty 1920s house. Further colour is provided in the summer and autumn by the herbaceous borders and rockeries.

Heather's Garden (NEW) 5 Glamis Terrace DD2 1NA (Heather MacLean): This mature suburban garden has a lovely south-facing aspect giving glimpses of the Tay and Fife coastline. The perennial herbaceous borders have been loosely planted with wildlife in mind. There are mature trees and shrubs, and a small wildlife pond provides a home for lots of frogs! A vegetable garden, with polytunnel and greenhouse, sits at the top of the garden where there is also a summerhouse.

Westgate 12 Glamis Drive, Dundee DD2 1QL (John and Frances Dent): This established garden, with many mature trees, occupies a south-facing site overlooking the River Tay and Fife hills. The tennis court lawn is surrounded by herbaceous plants and shrubs. A short woodland walk reveals a miniature knot garden, a bower and other surprise features. There are also rose beds and two oriental-themed water gardens.

Directions: Buses 5, 22 or 73 from Dundee city centre to the far end of Blackness Road. Glamis Drive is straight ahead and Glamis Terrace is a few yards down the hill, parallel to Glamis Drive. Please note there is no roadside parking on Glamis Drive.

Admission: £7.00, children free

Charities: Cancer Research UK 60%

Old Granary Quoy and The Quoy of Houton

The Quoy of Houton, Orphir, Orkney KW17 2RD
Caroline Critchlow and Colleen Batey

Sunday 2 June, 10am - 4pm (2024)

2c6

T:01856 811355

Old Granary Quoy The Quoy of Houton, Orphir, Orkney KW17 2RD (Caroline Critchlow): A newly-planted and designed garden, adjacent to The Quoy of Houton. Fabulous views over Scapa Flow, ponds and a water garden. The home of Orkney perennial geraniums and an extensive range of plants suitable for this exposed coastal location. The lantern greenhouse is a new acquisition featuring an indoor fig tree. Caroline Critchlow has designed award winning gardens and is the resident gardening guru on BBC Radio Orkney.

The Quoy of Houton Orphir, Orkney KW17 2RD (Dr Colleen Batey): An unusual historic walled panoramic garden with 60-foot rill which leads the eye to the spectacular coastal views of Scapa Flow. Carefully planted to withstand winds in excess of 60 mph, with floral interest from March to September. Winner of Gardeners' World Britain’s best challenging garden 2017 and listed in the top ten UK coastal gardens. Featured on Beechgrove and in the book Island Gardens.

Directions: From Orphir take the turning to Houton Ferry at the first junction signed Quoy of Houton, turn right by the car park. Park here and walk 10 minutes along the coastal road around the bay to the gardens. Disabled access please ring to arrange as parking is very limited. The gardens are a 10-minute walk from the bus stop.

Admission: £8.00, children free

Charities: FOTNW 60%

Quercus Garden Plants

Whitmuir Farm, West Linton EH46 7BB
Rona Dodds

Sunday 2 June & Sunday 25 August, 10am - 5pm (2024)

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T:01968 660708 E:quercusgardenplants@gmail.com

W:www.quercusgardenplants.co.uk

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Breast Cancer Now 60%

Seabank

The Merse, Rockcliffe DG5 4QH
Julian and Theodora Stanning

Sunday 2 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

1c6

T:01556 630244

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie: DG5 Group 60%

20 Blackford Road

Edinburgh EH9 2DS
John and Tricia Wood

Sunday 2 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

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Victorian walled garden of a quarter of an acre. Large collection of trees, shrubs and herbaceous perennials established over some four decades giving colour and interest all year round. Tulips in pots are followed by many rhododendrons and camellias, then hostas and euphorbias. The bulb season starts with daffodils, crocuses, bluebells then lilies in pots and finally cyclamen in autumn.

Directions: Buses 9, 24 and 5.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Parkinsons UK 60%

Lindores House

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

Sunday 2 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

0c467

T:01337 840369

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

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

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%

Geilston Garden

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

Sunday 2 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

2c46

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

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

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Barnbeth House

Clevans Road, Bridge of Weir PA11 3RS
Laura Brown, Head Gardener; Dylan Brown, Assistant Gardener

Sunday 2 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

2c79

Barnbeth Estate is a country estate in Renfrewshire with an Arts & Crafts mansion at its heart. Extensive formal gardens with sweeping lawns and mature trees, formal patio area with pond, rockery with unusual alpines/shrubs, herbaceous borders running down the stream edge leading to a large pond. Large woodland with rhododendrons, eucryphias, azaleas and laurel, and a new topiary themed garden. This is a traditional garden with a modern twist - full of surprises.

Directions: From the A761 in Bridge of Weir, turn onto Prieston Road leading to Clevans Road, drive past Ranfurly Castle Golf Club. Turn right to stay on Clevans Road. Barnbeth is approx 1 mile outside Bridge of Weir on Clevans Road. There are cross country routes here from Lochwinnoch but this is the easiest route.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: St Vincents Hospice Limited 60%

Macbiehill Gardens

The Walled Garden, Macbiehill EH46 7AZ
Simone Lyon

Sunday 2 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

c6

T:07933 113067

Three very different gardens in the hamlet of Macbiehill which sits at some 1000 feet above sea level, very exposed to the copious wind and rain.

Alderbank: Alderbank is a large garden containing a mix of wild flower meadows and trees, a herbaceous border and a productive area of fruit and vegetables. It is very much a family garden used by our children to explore nature and play.

Birchbrae: The house was built on this site by the owners in 2019 and thereafter the garden was created from rough moorland ground. The enrichment of the soil and planting became a 'Lockdown' project in June 2021.

The Walled Garden: A contemporary walled garden paved with multi-hued sandstone enlivened by plants in raised beds and containers, plus a variety of ceramic and large one-off sculptures.

Directions: From the A701 take the turning opposite the entrance to Whitmuir Farm, signposted Macbiehill. After the narrow bridge go uphill and take the first entrance on the left, signposted Macbiehill Farm. There will be signs to the gardens and limited parking at the far end of the driveway. Alternatively, see opening section above for details of the available courtesy bus from Whitmuir Farm.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support 60%

Laidlawstiel House

Clovenfords, Galashiels TD1 1TJ
Mr and Mrs P Litherland

Wednesday/Thursday, 5/6 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

2c

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Young Lives vs Cancer 60%

Bradystone House

Murthly PH1 4EW
Mrs James Lumsden

Thursday only 6 - 27 June, 11am - 4pm (2024)

c67

T:01738 710308 E:pclumsden@me.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 60%

Ardchattan Priory

North Connel PA37 1RQ
Mrs Sarah Troughton

Sunday 9 June, 12pm - 4pm (2024)

2c85d7

T:01796 481355 E:admin@ardchattan.co.uk

W:www.ardchattan.co.uk

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Tillytoghills Steading

Fettercairn AB30 1YJ
Veronica and Steve Engel

Sunday 9 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

c67

A large country garden with established herbaceous borders, new shubbery borders, a paddock with native trees and a large pond with fish, waterlilies and other water plants. Veronica and Steve have made a productive vegetable and fruit garden with a vine in the greenhouse and tender vegetables in the polytunnel. There are also espaliered apple trees and soft fruit, with free-range chickens roaming close by.

Directions: On the B966 half way between Edzell and Fettercairn.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Edzell Village Improvement Society: Garden Group 60%

The Bishop's House

Glencairn Road, Kilmacolm PA13 4PD
Paula Macgee and Paul Yacoubian

Sunday 9 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

2c46

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

Directions: PLEASE ACCESS THE GARDEN FROM THE GLENCAIRN ROAD ENTRANCE. Turn off the A761 in the centre of Kilmacolm onto Houston Road or Porterfield Road for access to the garden on Glencairn Road. Follow SGS signage. Parking on-road. McGill's buses run through Kilmacolm on the A761.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Glasgow Samaritans 60%

Thorntree

Arnprior FK8 3EY
Mark and Carol Seymour

Sunday 9 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

2c6

T:01786 870710 E:carolseymour666@gmail.com

W:www.thorntreebarn.co.uk

In 2024, Thorntree looks forward to welcoming visitors to their garden opening on Sunday 9 June as well as by arrangement on other dates. Carol will happily walk round the garden with you or you can wander on your own. The garden continues to evolve and cotoneasters by the saltire beds have been cut back which means the four flower beds are no longer hidden behind a hedge! Also, the view past the summerhouse can be seen and the Annabelle hydrangea has popped up now that there are fewer branches above it. It is an inspiring garden to visit at any time of the year. From the garden you can see panoramic views from Ben Lomond to Doune, watching the Forth meander down the bottom of the valley.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Forth Driving Group RDA SCIO 60%

Maggie's Edinburgh

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

Sunday 9 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

2c45

W:www.maggies.org

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Maggie's 60%

Srongarbh

The Loan, West Linton EH46 7HE
Mr and Mrs O Arnesen

Sunday 9 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

2c89

The property consists of an Arts and Crafts house (not open) with a large, well-established garden dating from the 1930s surrounded by woodland, with many trees and shrubs within the garden. This garden is approximately 1,000 feet above sea level, with acidic soil, high rainfall and low winter temperatures. In spring, the azaleas and rhododendrons provide a beautiful array of colours and the wide herbaceous borders continue flowering throughout the year. There is a formal rose garden with hybrid teas and old varieties of climbing, rambling and shrub roses. Below the formal terracing there is an original swimming pool as well as an ornamental pool under Japanese acers. The new owners are opening up areas of the garden with naturalistic paths.

Directions: A701 or A702 and follow the signs.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Ben Walton Trust 30% & Borders General Hospital, Margaret Kerr Unit 30%

Craig Hepburn Memorial Garden

Stirling Drive, Linwood PA3 3NB
Linwood High School

Wednesday/Thursday, 12/13 June, 4pm - 6pm (2024)

0c46

T:01505 336146 E:gw07hindelesley@glow.sch.uk

W:facebook.com/welovegardening14/

The Craig Hepburn Memorial Garden and Outdoor Learning Centre is located in Linwood High School. Our original garden with an outdoor classroom has been expanded to include community raised beds, an orchard, greenhouse and presentation area. We work with all years in the school, reconnecting them to the natural world, whether through growing in our organic garden, encouraging biodiversity or learning about sustainability. Winners of the Cultivation Street competition 2020.

Directions: Exit the M8 at St James Interchange and take the A737. Take the exit for Linwood onto the A761, follow to Clippens Road and then Stirling Drive where you will see the High School. Accessible by McGill's Buses.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Teenage Cancer Trust 60%

Mouse Cottage

Strathtay, Pitlochry PH9 0PG
Penny Kennedy

Friday/Saturday, 14/15 June, 10am - 4pm (2024)

c4k9

T:07799 678067 E:mymousecottage@outlook.com

W:mousecottage.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Bradystone House

Murthly PH1 4EW
Mrs James Lumsden

Saturday 15 June, 11am - 4pm (2024)

c67

T:01738 710308 E:pclumsden@me.com

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

The Abercairny Garden

Abercairny House, Crieff PH7 3NQ
Liz O'Donnell

Saturday 15 June, 12pm - 5pm (2024)

2c67k

T:01764 652706 E:info@abercairny.com

The Abercairny garden which was originally designed by Lewis Kennedy is in the shape of a horseshoe and set within a wall. It is edged by huge trees that include Douglas firs and Sequoia sempervirens and it is laid out on three terraces. The top terrace is mostly formal, with mature informal beds on either side; these beds contain roses, rhododendrons, and azaleas. The second (originally called the Bowling Green) includes rhododendrons and fruit trees. The third is made up of gardens that have been created in the last sixteen years. Here you will see, amongst many new plants, a paulownia tree, different kinds of cornus and eight magnolias. There are lots of different varieties of candelabra primulas in the primula garden. At the bottom of this garden there is a stream and Kennedy’s two Swiss bridges. Look out for red squirrels.

Directions: Turn south off the A85 at the New Fowlis crossroads, following signs. Turn right into the estate grounds after 1.2 miles (opposite Kintocher Farm on the left) and follow the drive for one mile past Abercairny House on the left. Car parking for the gardens is in the car park opposite the castellated stables venue.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Anchor House Cyrenians: Perth 60%

St Bride's Cottage

South Kingennie, Broughty Ferry DD5 3PA
Alison and Donald Gordon

Saturday/Sunday, 15/16 June, 1pm - 5pm (2024)

2c67

This half-acre garden was started from scratch in 2002 and now provides year-round interest. Planting several trees and making a wildlife pond and stream were the first priorities, as birds were sadly rare visitors to the garden. Parts of the perimeter of the garden are left semi wild with dense shrubs to provide cover and nesting areas, while the area visible from the house is planted for viewing, with a mixture of shrubs, perennials and bulbs. Some features are inspired by visits to gardens around the world, including a Japanese-themed area with island bed. There is a small bog garden with a lovely early summer display of Iris sibirica and many plants justify their existence by attracting a wide variety of bees and butterflies.

Directions: From Kellas take the minor road signed Murroes Church for approximately one mile to some steading houses and turn left up the farm track immediately before them. St Bride’s is the first house on the left with the conservatory and solar panels.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Diabetes UK 60%

Inveresk Village

Inveresk, Musselburgh EH21 7TE
The Gardeners of Inveresk

Saturday/Sunday, 15/16 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

2c46

This year we will present a new garden, a neat garden attached to the redeveloped 1862 Inveresk Combination Poorhouse and a much visited garden in the past which has re-joined the Open event. These are in addition to previously opened gardens which include a television star, one complementing an eco house, one large tiered garden and one garden surrounding the house of the previous area coal mine manager. The National Trust for Scotland property, Inveresk Lodge Garden, has great potential for children with pond dipping an ever-popular pursuit at this venue. Musselburgh’s highly-rated allotments will also be open within the circular trail which passes a very interesting topiary hedge outside a cottage in Double Dykes. The mix of large and small gardens, some of which are wrapped round by high stone walls and others more exposed to the wind and relatively dry climate, will offer visitors many ideas to think over when they return home. The Romans recognised the quality of the soil in this area when they settled here during the Antonine era between 140 and 165 AD and some of the land may well have been in continuous cultivation since then.

Directions: Southside of Musselburgh on the A6124. The 140 bus stops in the village. Spreading visits over two days has been integral in preventing dangerous parking congestion. It is essential that able-bodied people who arrive by car do not park on the main A6124 road running through the village as this impedes smooth emergency vehicle movements

Admission: £8.00, children free

Charities: St.Columba’s Hospice Care 60%

The Abercairny Garden

Abercairny House, Crieff PH7 3NQ
Liz O'Donnell

Sunday 16 June, 12pm - 5pm (2024)

2c67k

T:01764 652706 E:info@abercairny.com

The Abercairny garden which was originally designed by Lewis Kennedy is in the shape of a horseshoe and set within a wall. It is edged by huge trees that include Douglas firs and Sequoia sempervirens and it is laid out on three terraces. The top terrace is mostly formal, with mature informal beds on either side; these beds contain roses, rhododendrons, and azaleas. The second (originally called the Bowling Green) includes rhododendrons and fruit trees. The third is made up of gardens that have been created in the last sixteen years. Here you will see, amongst many new plants, a paulownia tree, different kinds of cornus and eight magnolias. There are lots of different varieties of candelabra primulas in the primula garden. At the bottom of this garden there is a stream and Kennedy’s two Swiss bridges. Look out for red squirrels.

Directions: Turn south off the A85 at the New Fowlis crossroads, following signs. Turn right into the estate grounds after 1.2 miles (opposite Kintocher Farm on the left) and follow the drive for one mile past Abercairny House on the left. Car parking for the gardens is in the car park opposite the castellated stables venue.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: The Spafford Children's Centre 60%

Pittenweem: Gardens in the Burgh

Pittenweem KY10 2PG
Gardeners of Pittenweem

Sunday 16 June, 12pm - 5pm (2024)

2c46

T:07718 000802

An inspiring variety of gardens, many tucked away behind houses and garden walls, displaying a wide range of styles, from traditional to landscaped to richly productive and incorporating many interesting and unusual plants. This is a chance to visit old favourites and discover new projects.

Directions: For tickets and maps follow postcode above to High Street. For parking, coming from the west follow signs to West Braes car park, from Ovenstone use car park next to football field/cemetery off Charles Street, and from the east turn right and park in Milton Road. Parking may also be available throughout the village.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: British Heart Foundation 60%

Kirkside of Lochty

Menmuir, by Brechin DD9 6RY
Ed and Fi Troughton

Sunday 16 June, 1pm - 5pm (2024)

c679

T:01356 660362

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: St Andrews Scottish Episcopal Church 30% & Pitt Hopkins UK 30%

Covington Gardens

Covington Village ML12 6NE
Sharon Pearson

Sunday 16 June, 1pm - 5pm (2024)

1c469

T:07827236771 E:sharon.pearson69@outlook.com

A group of three gardens in and close to Covington Village.

Covington Mill Farmhouse (NEW) (Sharon Pearson) Set amongst eight acres, the gardens have been transformed since 2019 from pastureland to a landscape of woodlands, wildlife habitats: formal gardens and recently, a prairie inspired garden. A restored watermill building and lade runs through the whole area, creating a meditative backdrop to the matrix and drift planting schemes surrounding them. Changing seasons and environmental challenges we face, are reflected in different planting responses to the garden's varied site aspects and aesthetic aims.

Hawk House Gardens (NEW) (Angus and Angela Milner-Brown) The two plus acres of Hawk House gardens were formed in 2009. Protective mixed hedges, a wildflower meadow and lawns were planted on an exposed hillside with far reaching views. Since then the new owners have designed and planted additional gardens with extensive borders and herbaceous plants bringing much of their sizeable collection from the nearby manse. The new gardens include an alpine garden, hosta beds, a pond, new formal hedging leading to the wildflower meadows (80 species in 2023) and a hilltop pavilion nestled into a woodland.

Weavers Cottage (NEW) (Sharon Paton) This quaint cottage garden with picket fencing, topiary and stone and brick paths and walls, is the canvas for a Grade B listed thatched cottage. Lovingly interpreted and restored over 30 years, following the original layout of these modest cottages whose long plots and ‘vennels’ lead to a little woodland and pond. The Newtown’s row of cottages dating to the mid 1820's, some with original thatch under tin roofing, are now a rarity in Scotland.

Directions: From the A73 turn off at Tinto Hill into the village of Thankerton and follow the SGS signs

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Pancreatic Cancer UK 20%, The Linda Norgrove Foundation 20% & Buglife - The Invertebrate Conservation Trust 20%

Claremont

Redmill EH47 0JY
Trevor and Faye Yerbury

Sunday 16 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

23c6

E:info@yerburystudio.com

‘Claremont’ is situated only two minutes from J4 of the M8 and yet it’s an idyllic oasis. It is an eclectic garden created over 18 years and before we moved in, it was just grass with a few rhododendrons. The garden has three areas; to the front are various herbaceous borders, to the side we have our hosta collection, containing over 150 hostas and to the rear there are herbaceous borders, plus a stumpery/fernery which was created in 2022. We have three ponds, one very large, a rockery, a dovecot, newly-created rose garden and interesting trees including a grand monkey puzzle. New for 2024 we have created a brand-new herbaceous border, the stumpery has been expanded over the winter and a new greenhouse has been installed.

Directions: Take the M8 and leave at J4 heading for Whitburn. At the first set of traffic lights turn right for Whitburn. After 100 metres turn first right at the bollards and come straight down.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & Breast Cancer Campaign Scotland 30%

Glenkyllachy

Tomatin IV13 7YA
Mr and Mrs Philip Mackenzie

Sunday 16 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

0c7

E:emmaglenkyllachy@gmail.com

In a magnificent Highland glen, 1200 feet above sea level, Glenkyllachy is a beautiful garden of shrubs, herbaceous plants, rhododendrons, trees, and spectacular views down the Findhorn River. There are some rare specimens and a recently planted arboretum. Rhododendrons and bulbs flower in May/June, herbaceous plants bloom through July/August with glorious autumn colours in September and October. There is a very productive vegetable garden, 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%

Kirkbrae House

Culross KY12 8JD
Sandra Bannister

Saturday/Sunday, 22/23 June, Saturday/Sunday, 20/21 July & Sunday 18 August, 11am - 4pm (2024)

2c467k9

E:Sandra.bannister18@gmail.com

An acre of walled garden sitting high in the village of Culross in the shadow of the Abbey. With meandering paths through perennial beds, bright annuals and shrubs and trees from as far as South America and Asia, the garden provides interest from late spring until autumn. The garden aims to provide an environment of joy, surprise and opportunity to sit and enjoy the spectacular garden views of the River Forth.

Directions: The garden is located on Kirk Street. On leaving the lower village start to climb up to the Abbey, the garden gates open directly onto Kirk Street. Car parking is either below the garden or near the Abbey. Buses come into the village from Dunfermline and Kincardine

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Barrmill Community Garden

Barrmill Park and Gardens KA15 1HW
The Barrmill Conservation Group

Saturday 22 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

0c467

E:jean42gilbert@gmail.com

W:https://www.facebook.com/BarrmillCG

This large woodland garden is carved from a 19th-century whinstone quarry and situated within a 1890s parkland, once known for the quoiting green provided for the village thread mill and ironstone pit workers of that time. Enhancement of the gardens began in 2010 by volunteers, with assistance from Beechgrove in 2012. Features include enchanted woodland walks, a fairy trail, a nature trail, the Vale Burn, views of the Dusk Water, a restored 19th-century cholera pit aka ‘The Deid Man’s Plantin’, a new Celtic tree circle and guided walks. The woodland backdrop is complemented by an understorey of natural planting throughout.

Directions: From Stewarton take the A735 to Dunlop, go left down Main Street B706 to Burnhouse, over at crossroads to Barrmill B706. From Lugton south on the A736, take the right at Burnhouse, B706 to Barrmill. From Glasgow on the M8 take J28a signposted Irvine, on Beith bypass take the left at B706 to Barrmill.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Barrmill and District Community Association 60%

Tiny Farm

St Modan's High School, Royal Stuart Way, Stirling FK7 7WS
Alison Poole

Sunday 23 June, 11am - 5pm (2024)

2c69

E:poolea05s@glow.sch.uk

Tiny farm was created to support learners within the Autism Provision at St Modan's High School. The space is a mixture of raised beds, planted grass and small woodland areas. Learning for sustainability is embedded within the Tiny Farm. Planting is decided by the learners and includes a range of flowers and vegetables. 2023 was a bumper year for the strawberry crops and we will be selling some of our delicious homemade strawberry jam! The Tiny Farm enables our curriculum to come to life, allowing interdisciplinary learning to flourish as learners nurture the plants, harvest them, donate to the community and make products such as jam and soap to sell. The Tiny Farm is opening to showcase what is being undertaken.

Directions: From the A91, take exit off Muirton Roundabout to Holiday Express Inn. At Springkerse roundabout take exit to the Peak. Keep right, and turn right at approach to Forthbank Stadium carpark and follow the road to the car park for St Modan's High School.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Strathcarron Hospice 60%

Stockbridge Gardens

Garden trail runs between Logie Green Gardens EH7 4HE and Royal Circus Gardens North EH3 6TN
Gardeners of Stockbridge

Sunday 23 June, 12pm - 4:30pm (2024)

c46

E:JW.homeoffice@gmail.com

Visit some of the surprising horticultural delights behind the discrete terraces of Stockbridge and enjoy home-made refreshments in a classic Georgian leisure garden. Bringing fresh air and wildlife into the heart of the city, the collection provides lots of creative solutions to urban gardening with year-round interest through a mix of seasonal planting and structural evergreens which the gardeners will be on hand to talk about.

Directions: Buses 23 and 27 to Dundas Street and Canonmills, 8 to Rodney Street and Canonmills, 36 to Hamilton Place and Broughton Road, 29 to Royal Circus.

Admission: £8.50, children free

Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 30% & Shelter Scotland 30%

The Moorhouse

Duns TD11 3RY
Mike and Bridget Bevan

Sunday 23 June, 1pm - 5pm (2024)

2c57

T:07848 803776 E:bordersecoflowers@gmail.com

The Borders Eco Flowers garden at The Moorhouse is designed to produce organic cut flowers and foliage throughout the year. Whilst most cut flowers sold in Scotland are imported, our flowers are grown here, not flown here! All are grown in an environmentally friendly manner without the use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides. Not only are we eco-friendly gardeners, we are eco-friendly florists too! We harvest the flowers at their peak and create posies, bouquets and all kinds of unique floral creations.

Directions: Ignore your SatNav once you have left the A6112. From Duns, take the A6112 towards Grantshouse. Ignore the left-hand turn (B6355) signposted Abbey St Bathans. Proceed through the village of Preston and 3 miles further on, turn left signposted Edin's Hall Broch. Continue up the hill for 1½ miles and you will see The Moorhouse (painted yellow) on the right. From the A1, turn off at Grantshouse onto the A6112, signposted Duns. After 3½ miles, turn right signposted Edin's Hall Brock. Continue up the hill for 1½ miles and you will see The Moorhouse (painted yellow) on the right.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Borders Pet Rescue 60%

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%

Longniddry Gardens

Longniddry EH32 0LF
The Gardeners of Longniddry

Sunday 23 June, 1pm - 5pm (2024)

2c46

Longniddry is an attractive village with extensive green spaces, popular beaches and outstanding sea views. Our gardens are tended by enthusiastic gardeners some of whom are old hands and some recent converts to gardening - all will be delighted to discuss their gardens with visitors. The gardens exhibit a variety of size, layout and planting, ensuring something for everyone. One of the smaller gardens is modern and shows what can be achieved with attractive and innovative hard landscaping. Another small addition is a very young 'urban woodland' garden designed over the past few years with most plants either freebies or sale bargains. Larger gardens include new and mature trees and herbaceous planting ranging from self-seeding cottage style to the more formal, with some now influenced by the modern concept of rewilding. There are veggie plots, potagers, containers of all sorts and ponds. Outbuildings range from working greenhouses to summer houses and gazebos. There’s lots to see and enjoy so please join us!

Directions: On the A198 from North Berwick (east) or Edinburgh (west). Access also from the B1348 (the coast road from Port Seton/Cockenzie) and the B1377 (from Drem). Longniddry is also on the North Berwick train line from Edinburgh Waverley and bus route 124 from Princes Street, Edinburgh.

Admission: £8.00, children free

Charities: Parkinsons UK 30% & Blood Bikes Scotland 30%

Merchiston Cottage

16 Colinton Road, Edinburgh EH10 5EL
Esther Mendelssohn

Sunday 23 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

2c467

Previously open for nearly twenty years we are happy to open again after a six year gap. Come and enjoy our romantic walled garden within a mile of the city centre providing a haven for wildlife based on a tapestry of habitats including numerous water features. It has been gardened on organic principles for nearly 40 years with productive fruit trees, apples, pears, plums, quince, medlar and black mulberry. Soft fruit including gooseberries, raspberries, blueberries and red, white and blackcurrants all benefit from the pollinating bees kept in hives in the garden which also give us the added bonus of honey. A roof garden devoted to growing fruit and vegetables has greatly enhanced the garden and provided new planting opportunities. Since Covid we have become involved with a new charity, Blood Bikes Scotland and are delighted to open our garden to help raise much needed funds for them.

Directions: Near Holy Corner, opposite George Watson's College School. Take Lothian Buses 11 or 16.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Blood Bikes Scotland 60%

Brantwoode and High Glenan

24a Queen Street, Helensburgh G84 9LG
Tricia and Tom Stewart

Sunday 23 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

2c4679

Brantwoode (NEW) Munro Drive West, Helensburgh G84 9AA (David W Henderson): Brantwoode is a mix of informal and formal areas, chosen to complement the 1895 Arts & Crafts house. The south-facing front garden is beautifully terraced on three levels in red sandstone with a central lavender path dividing the main lawns. The top terrace is mainly perennials and small shrubs flanked by rambling roses. There is a shrubbery on the west side of the garden with rhododendrons, azaleas and acers while on the east side there is a woodland path with camellias, hydrangeas, magnolias and two large rhododendron trees. There are also several mature conifers. The lower terrace, sheltered by a beech hedge, has shrubs and many outstanding specimen trees, providing year round interest. There is also a rockery with two small wildlife ponds. To the rear of the house is the formal rose garden with many scented and repeat flowering roses backed by clematis and wisteria on the high sandstone wall. There is also a working area and small fruit garden.

High Glenan Helensburgh G84 9LG (Tom and Tricia Stewart): A secluded garden with burn and waterside plants, gravel garden, herb and herbaceous borders and kitchen garden with a selection of fruit and vegetables. Extensive programme of hard landscaping has been undertaken over the last ten years.

Directions: Brantwoode is the middle house behind Helensburgh Upper Station. Parking either in W. Lennox Dr or Rossdhu Dr. High Glenan is approximately ½ mile along Queen Street from its junction with Sinclair Street on the right hand side.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: The Woodland Trust Scotland 30% & Rhu and Shandon Parish Church of Scotland: Tower Appeal 30%

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 E:info@aigas.co.uk

W:www.aigas.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Highland Hospice: Aird branch 60%

The Bield at Blackruthven

Blackruthven House, Tibbermore PH1 1PY
The Bield Christian Co Ltd

Saturday 29 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

2c57

T:01738 583238 E:info@bieldatblackruthven.org.uk

The Bield is set in extensive grounds with well maintained lawns, hedges, flower meadow and specimen trees. A labyrinth is cut into the grass of the old orchard and there is also a wheelchair-friendly labyrinth. Traditional walled garden with colourful, richly stocked borders and lawns, cut-flower garden, healing garden, glasshouse, trained fruit trees and organic vegetable plot. Walk through extensive woodland and visit the old curling pond. Southton Smallholding is a social enterprise ten minutes walk away, featuring vegetable plots, polytunnels and a number of animals (not staffed on the day).

Directions: From Dundee or Edinburgh, follow signs for Glasgow, Stirling and Crianlarich which lead onto the Perth bypass. Head west on the A85 signed to Crieff/Crianlarich to West Huntingtower. Turn left at the crossroads to Madderty/Tibbermore. The entrance is left after a half-mile passing the gate lodge on your right. Parking signed to right at the steading.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Ripple Effect 60%

Blebo Craigs Village Gardens

Blebo Craigs, Cupar KY15 5UG
Gardeners of Blebo Craigs

Sunday 30 June, 11am - 4pm (2024)

2c6

A selection of cottage gardens in this charming rural village, situated between Cupar and St Andrews; most gardens have stunning views over the surrounding countryside. The gardens are all different, many with beautiful herbaceous borders and unusual trees, there are also ponds, orchards and a living roof. Because the village is on a hill, please be aware that some of the gardens will involve steps.

Directions: From St Andrews: B939 for 5 miles, village sign on your left at the bus stop pointing right and taking you straight to the village. From Cupar: B940 to Pitscottie, turn left onto the B939 and, after a couple of miles, turn left into the village. Turn left at the phone box for the Village Hall and signs to the parking area.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Blebo Craigs Village Hall 2000 Trust 60%

Moonzie House

By Cupar KY15 4NL
Katherine Watts

Sunday 30 June, 12pm - 6pm (2024)

c69

T:07720 266298 E:Kathy@joe-cool.co.uk

Moonzie House was formerly the manse to historic Moonzie Kirk, which sits a few metres away at the top of the small hill. The modest walled garden has been developed over 35 years around a pre-existing central circular feature and echoes the circles and curves to creates a garden that is traditional with some surprising features. As well as a wide variety of shrubs and perennials, the garden is home to a collection of over 60 different bamboo varieties which are subtly incorporated among more traditional plantings.

Directions: From Cupar take the A913 (Newburgh, Perth Road). In approximately 3 miles, shortly after the large bends at Kilmaron, turn right to Moonzie. Take next left, signposted Moonzie Church and follow the single track road to the top. After the farmyard bear right following the track alongside the wall or follow parking instructions. From Dundee take the A92, after Rathillet, turn left where Moonzie signposted, then instructions as above. Similarly, from Edinburgh/Perth, from A92 at Parbroath crossroads take the A913 and then as above.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Moonzie Kirk Preservation Trust 60%

Ruthven House

Coldstream TD12 4JU
Keith and Karen Fountain

Sunday 30 June, 12pm - 5pm (2024)

2c67

T:01890 840680 E:ruthvenhouse@btconnect.com

The three acres of Ruthven’s garden have lovely views towards the Cheviots. The garden’s central feature is two ponds joined by a winding stream. The garden is composed of various differing areas - herbaceous borders, woodland areas, a gravel garden, a knot garden, rockeries, an orchard laid to meadow, a kitchen garden, a nuttery, a small lavender field, a shade bed to the back of the house and, adjacent to the house, a formal rose garden. Much of the work to create the garden from the original few small beds around the house has only been undertaken in the last few years, so the garden has not yet reached complete maturity. The small fold of Highland cattle, hopefully including a young calf, in the adjacent field complete the scene.

Directions: Four miles north of Coldstream on the old Duns road.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Borders General Hospital, Margaret Kerr Unit: and Macmillan Centre 60%

Bruckhills Croft

Rothienorman, Inverurie AB51 8YB
Paul and Helen Rushton

Sunday 30 June, 12pm - 5pm (2024)

2c6a

T:01651 821596 E:helenrushton1@aol.com

An informal country cottage garden extending to three-quarters of an acre with a further acre as wildflower meadow and pond. There are several distinct areas which include a white border, a butterfly alley, kitchen garden with polytunnel, greenhouse and fruit cage, an orchard, and a blue and yellow border. Relax on one of the many seats in the garden and soak up the atmosphere. Awarded National Collection status for Galanthus (snowdrops) in 2021.
National Plant Collection: Galanthus

Directions: From Rothienorman take the B9001 north for two-and-a-half miles. On the S-bend turn left. When you reach the Bruckhills Farm turn off, yellow signs will direct you to the Croft.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Befriend A Child Ltd 60%

Dalhowan Farm

Crosshill, Maybole KA19 7RN
Fiona and Robbie Baird

Sunday 30 June, 1pm - 5pm (2024)

2c6k

T:07850 282130 E:crosshill.fionabaird@tiscali.co.uk

Situated on the edge of the village, the garden of this working dairy farm has clear views towards the Heads of Ayr. Central to the garden is the lawn, around which are a wide range of mixed perennial borders. In spring these are highly colourful with a variety of daffodils. A raised pond complements some of the external walls and border edges, constructed from recycled sandstone. A long hosta border stretches the length of the farmhouse, where it benefits from shade. Mature trees and shrubs help to protect the garden from the prevailing winds. Two greenhouses protect tender plants over winter, from which a large number of cuttings are taken to fill numerous containers around the farmyard.

Directions: Follow the A77 south from Ayr to Maybole, take the B7023 towards the village of Crosshill, continue to the end of the village. Parking is available in the field at the end of the village, with a short walk along the road to enter the garden.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: The Ayrshire Hospice 60%

Southwick House

Southwick DG2 8AH
Mr and Mrs R H L Thomas

Sunday 30 June, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

0c57

The extensive gardens at Southwick House comprise three main areas. The first is a traditional formal walled garden with potager and large glasshouse producing a range of fruit, vegetables and cutting flowers. Adjacent to this is a hedged formal garden with herbaceous, shrub and rose beds centred around a lily pond, with roses being a notable feature. Outwith the formal gardens there is a large water garden with two connected ponds with trees, shrubs and lawns running alongside the Southwick Burn.

Directions: On the A710 near Caulkerbush. Dalbeattie 7 miles, Dumfries 17 miles.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Loch Arthur 60%

Willowhill

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

Monday 1 July, Saturday 6 July, Monday 8 July, Saturday 13 July, Monday 15 July, Saturday 20 July, Monday 22 July, Saturday 27 July & Monday 29 July, 1pm - 5pm (2024)

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T:01382 542890 E:e.g.wright@dundee.ac.uk

W:www.willowhillgarden.weebly.com

An evolving three-acre garden. The house is surrounded by a series of mixed borders designed with different vibrant colour combinations for effect in all seasons. Spectacular mix of roses, herbaceous perennials and annuals planted through the wide borders are a highlight in mid to late summer. A new ‘no dig’ 160-foot border in shades of white, blue, purple and pale yellow was created in 2019/2020. The most recent addition to the garden is another ‘no dig’ border in shades of peach, burgundy, yellow, chocolate and acid yellow. Come and see! April and May for late spring bulbs and flowers; June and July for roses and high summer colour; August for late summer colour.

The plant stall includes a lovely selection from the garden. Visitors are welcome to bring their own refreshments and picnic in the garden. A season ticket for all these dates, and by arrangement, is £20 plus p&p and admits the ticket holder plus guest. It comes with a limited edition of the Willowhill Garden Guide: 35 pages of beautiful photographs with descriptions of key garden features and plantings. A season ticket with booklet is a perfect gift for garden lovers for a birthday or at Christmas and do treat yourself too! Season tickets are available online at tinyurl.com/4srm6rux or by post (cheque for £23 payable to Scotland’s Garden Scheme) from S. Lorimore, Willowhill, Forgan, Newport-on-Tay, Fife DD6 8RA.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Rio Community Centre: Newport-on-Tay 50%

Dougarie

Isle of Arran KA27 8EB
Mrs S C Gibbs

Tuesday 2 July, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

1c7

E:laviniawgibbs@gmail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Pirnmill Village Association 60%

Bradystone House

Murthly PH1 4EW
Mrs James Lumsden

Thursday only 4 - 25July, 11am - 4pm (2024)

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T:01738 710308 E:pclumsden@me.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 60%

Amat

Amat Lodge, Ardgay IV24 3BS
Jonny and Sara Shaw

Saturday/Sunday, 6/7 July, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

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

Over the last few years there have been big changes in the garden and there is now much more interest during the summer months. There is a new mini stumpery and many changes to original borders . The river Carron flows around the edge of the garden and the old Amat Caledonian Forest is close by. Large specimen trees surround the house, plus many new ones planted in the policies in the last few years. There are several herbaceous borders, rhododendrons, trees and shrubs, all set in a large lawn. It is possible to go on a short woodland and river walk and you may see red squirrels which were reintroduced some years ago and are often in and around the garden.
Champion Trees: Abies Procera, Noble Fir

Directions: Take the road from Ardgay to Croick, nine miles. Turn left at the red phone box and the garden is 500 yards on the left.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Horatio's Garden 30% & Marie Curie 30%

King's Park Walled Garden

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

Saturday 6 July, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

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E:contactus@friendsofkingsparkglasgow.co.uk

W:friendsofkingsparkglasgow.co.uk

The C-listed walled garden within King's Park would have served as a kitchen garden for the original James Hamilton estate in the 18th century, with colourful beds and borders and fruit trees. In recent years, Friends of King's Park have adopted the garden from Glasgow City Council with the aim of reinstating it to its former glory. The garden is split into quarters, two of which FOKP planted with trees, shrubs, perennials and spring bulbs between 2022 and 2023. The east-facing bed has been planted with weeping cherry trees, underplanted with a selection of bulbs and a variety of perennials. The north-facing bed has a row of beautiful cherry trees. The south-facing wall will showcase cordons of a range of fruiting trees, which FOKP extended over winter 2023. We aim to further enrich the experience of visiting this garden and as a charitable organisation, will continue to raise funds to fully restore the walled garden. There will be a number of activities, stalls and displays available on the day. The garden is also open daylight hours all year round for anyone to enjoy (times may vary!). Another point of interest is the sensory garden (located behind the mansion house).
Champion Trees: Yew trees (in main King's Park)

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: FARE Scotland Ltd 60%

Glen House

Glen Estate, Innerleithen EH44 6PX
The Tennant family

Sunday 7 July, 1pm - 4pm (2024)

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T:01896 830210 E:info@glenhouse.com

W:www.glenhouse.com

Surrounding the outstanding Scots Baronial mansion designed by David Bryce in the mid-19th century, Glen House gardens are laid out on shallow terraces overhanging the glen itself. It offers one of the loveliest designed landscapes in the Borders. The garden expands from the formal courtyard through a yew colonnade, and contains a fine range of trees, long herbaceous border and a pool garden with pergola, all arranged within the curve of slopes sheltering the house.

Directions: Follow the B709 out of Innerleithen for approximately 2½ miles. Right turn at signpost for Glen Estate.

Admission: £8.00, children free

Charities: WFGA 60%

Pentland Crescent Gardens

2 Pentland Crescent, Edinburgh EH10 6NP
Jan Polley

Sunday 7 July, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

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Neighbouring gardens all laid out very differently, offering a wide range of ideas for visitors. The gardens include colourful herbaceous borders, a range of fruit and vegetables and a woodland garden which shows what can be done with a sloping site. There are ideas for planting in the sun and shade, rockeries, a garden pond, and various patios and seating areas.

Directions: From the city centre take the A702 through Morningside, continue uphill and turn right at Comiston Springs Avenue. Pentland Crescent is first left. Buses 11 or 15 and get off at the Comiston Springs Avenue stop.

Admission: £7.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie 60%

Douneside House

Tarland AB34 4UD
The MacRobert Trust

Sunday 7 July, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

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W:www.dounesidehouse.co.uk

Douneside is the former home of Lady MacRobert, who developed these magnificent gardens in the early to mid-1900s. Ornamental borders, an Arts and Crafts themed terraced garden and water gardens surround a spectacular infinity lawn overlooking the Deeside hills. The walled garden houses a large ornamental greenhouse and supplies organic fruit, vegetables, herbs and cut flowers to Douneside House which is a multi-award winning hotel. All areas of the garden will be open and there will be a pipe band, teas and plants for sale.

Directions: On the B9119 towards Aberdeen. Tarland one mile.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Perennial 60%

Amulree

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

Saturday/Sunday, 13/14 July, 10am - 4pm (2024)

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T:0789 909 2070 E:gabygardeners@btinternet.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Kirkmaiden Old Kirk 60%

Kiltarlity Gardens

Kiltarlity, Beauly IV4 7JH
Sheila Ross, Neil & Frances Macritchie and Dickon and Barbara Sandbach

Sunday 14 July, 12pm - 5pm (2024)

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Aird View 30a Camault Muir, Kiltarlity IV4 7JH (Sheila Ross): The garden at Aird View offers a mix of borders, a water feature, an arbour and a newly-added herbaceous border. There are also fruit trees and vegetable beds. Vintage tractors on display.

Highland Liliums 10 Loaneckheim, Kiltarlity IV4 7JQ (Neil and Frances Macritchie): Highland Liliums is a working retail nursery with spectacular views over the Beauly valley and Strathfarrar hills. A wide selection of home-grown plants are available including alpines, ferns, grasses, herbaceous, herbs, liliums, primulas and shrubs.

Monarda House (NEW) Kiltarlity, Beauly IV4 7HX (Dickon & Barbara Sandbach): An evolving, productive garden with a mix of ornamental and native plantings over four acres. An easy circuit, in proximity to the house on even paths, displays a variety of conifers, shrubs and herbaceous plants, with a summer house and sheltered stone circle. A wider circuit, for which stouter footwear is recommended, includes raised vegetable beds, polytunnel, chicken run, a young orchard, nuttery and mature woodland, with a pine-lined avenue along a ride up to the fledgling arboretum. Beyond is a rough-pathed area of regenerative woodlands, wildflower meadow, mature trees and willow coppice, to the old stable apiary, returning along a track sided with ornamental cherries.

Directions: Aird View take the A833 Beauly to Drumnadrochit Road, pass Brockies Lodge. Turn right at the bus shelter and follow the single-track road to the junction at the school. Turn left and go up the hill to the top, at the junction Aird View is on the right. Highland Liliums signposted from Kiltarlity Village, which is just off the Beauly to Drumnadrochit road (A833), approximately 12 miles from Inverness. Monarda House from the A833 Beauly to Drumnadrochit Road, turn into Kiltarlity. Drive right through the village, over a small bridge and take the next turn left, signed to Clunevackie. Continue for 1.3 miles until you see a forest track straight ahead and the road bears left; Monarda House is the next house on the right. What3words: valuables.teaches.brave

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Highland Hospice: Aird branch 60%

Claremont

Redmill EH47 0JY
Trevor and Faye Yerbury

Sunday 14 July, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

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E:info@yerburystudio.com

‘Claremont’ is situated only two minutes from J4 of the M8 and yet it’s an idyllic oasis. It is an eclectic garden created over 18 years and before we moved in, it was just grass with a few rhododendrons. The garden has three areas; to the front are various herbaceous borders, to the side we have our hosta collection, containing over 150 hostas and to the rear there are herbaceous borders, plus a stumpery/fernery which was created in 2022. We have three ponds, one very large, a rockery, a dovecot, newly-created rose garden and interesting trees including a grand monkey puzzle. New for 2024 we have created a brand-new herbaceous border, the stumpery has been expanded over the winter and a new greenhouse has been installed.

Directions: Take the M8 and leave at J4 heading for Whitburn. At the first set of traffic lights turn right for Whitburn. After 100 metres turn first right at the bollards and come straight down.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & Breast Cancer Campaign Scotland 30%

16 Mulla

Voe, Shetland ZE2 9XQ
Linda Richardson

Saturday/Sunday, 20/21 July, 10:30am - 4:30pm (2024)

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

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Shetland UHI: Shetland Community Wildlife Group 60%

Two Gardens in Banchory Devenick

Banchory Devenick AB12 5XR
Angela and Derek Townsley & Jane and Terry O'Kelly

Saturday/Sunday, 20/21 July, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

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T:text 07712 528450 E:janeokelly868@gmail.com

Pinetrees Cottage Banchory Devenick AB12 5XR (Angela and Derek Townsley): A mature garden set in three-quarters of an acre, filled with a wide range of hardy plants including rhododendrons, azaleas, acers, topiary and roses, with two ponds. An alpine house is fronted by stone troughs filled with rock plants. Set in a backdrop of mature pine trees to the north and open fields to the south.

Whin Cottage Ardoe, Aberdeen AB12 5XT (Jane and Terry O'Kelly): A cottage garden of just under half an acre surrounded by farmland. It features a border of rhododendrons and azaleas, several mixed borders, two formal rose beds, a wildlife pond and four raised beds growing a variety of vegetables and flowers for the house. The garden reflects a love of colour and structure and an interest in wildlife.

Directions: Pinetrees Cottage: Banchory Devenick is four miles from Bridge of Dee. Turn off B9077 at Banchory Devenick church. Follow to T-junction, turn right. Next right is Butterywells Steading. Turn into opening and follow track, go around the back of farmhouse (Lochend) and continue on track to Pinetrees. Whin Cottage: Take the B9077 out of Aberdeen. After approximately two miles turn left immediately after Banchory Devenick Church, signposted Banchory Devenick. (There is parking available along the verge on the left). Turn right after 100 metres. Whin Cottage is on the right immediately after you have turned. There is limited parking outside the cottage.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Fighting For Sight Aberdeen 60%

Kailzie Gardens

Peebles EH45 9HT
Susan and Steve Plag

Sunday 21 July, 10am - 4pm (2024)

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T:01721 720682

W:kailziegardens.com

Kailzie Gardens sits at the heart of the Tweed Valley just a mile east of Peebles occupying a beautiful position on the River Tweed. At its heart lies the stunning walled garden with plantings of many unusual shrubs, laburnum arches, an enchanting rose garden and spectacular herbaceous borders and one of the best examples of a Mackenzie and Moncur glasshouse still in existence, filled with fuchsias, pelargoniums and exotics. The garden also features prize winning show vegetables. The surrounding woodlands have one of the best laid arboretums in Scotland, with champion trees and specimens (including the oldest larch), providing acres of captivating woodland and burnside walks and spectacular vistas.
Champion Trees: Larch planted 1725

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00229

Directions: A mile east of Peebles on the B7062.

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

Charities: Tweed Togs SCIO 60%

Craigentinny Telferton Allotments

Telferton Road, off Portobello Road, Edinburgh EH7 6XG
The Gardeners of Craigentinny and Telferton

Sunday 21 July, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

2c846

E:ctallotments@gmail.com

Established in 1923, this independent allotment site is a tranquil and charming space, hidden away in a built-up area, where the local community benefit from growing their own vegetables and fruit. Come and enjoy tea, home baking and a chat with our friendly plot-holders.

Directions: Park on Telferton Road. Buses 15, 26, 45.

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Craigentinny Telferton Allotments 60%

42 Astle

Dornoch IV25 3NH
Fay Wilkinson

Saturday/Sunday, 27/28 July, 11am - 4pm (2024)

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Organic wildlife garden at the edge of boggy moorland. Mature trees and shrubs are mixed with herbaceous perennials, vegetables and flowers for cutting. Changes are continually being made to focus on providing food and homes for pollinating insects.

Directions: A9 from the south: pass the turn off to Dornoch, take the first left after the Tall Pines Restaurant, signposted Astle. After one and a half miles take the left fork, cross the river and no. 42 is the second house on the left. A9 from the north: turn right 100 yards before the Tall Pines Restaurant, then follow the directions above.

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Bumblebee Conservation Trust 60%

Skelbo House

Skelbo, Dornoch IV25 3QG
Alison Bartlett

Saturday/Sunday, 27/28 July, 11am - 4pm (2024)

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E:SkelboHouseGarden@gmail.com

Extensive woodland garden with spectacular views over Loch Fleet. Mixed herbaceous borders, rose garden and shrubberies surround the house. Lawns slope down to a small lochan and river walkway. Mature trees throughout. Large kitchen garden.

Directions: from the south, on the A9 take the small turning opposite the Trentham Hotel (just past the Dornoch turn-offs). At the side of Loch Fleet turn left, then at the ruined castle take the second farm road which is fairly rough, and follow round to your right. If coming from the north take the Loch Fleet road signposted to Embo from the A9.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Mary's Meals 60%

Pitlochie House

Gateside KY14 7SQ
George & Fay Orr

Sunday 28 July, 10am - 6pm (2024)

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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%

Mollan

Thornhill, Stirling FK8 3QJ
Iain and Ruth Howieson

Sunday 28 July, 12pm - 4pm (2024)

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Mollan is a large 3 acre garden in rural Stirlingshire set in softly rolling farmland. The garden is designed as a series of smaller interlocking gardens, each with a distinct character, packed with rich, colourful planting, meandering paths, a formal lawn, a wild flower meadow, two ponds and a productive kitchen garden.

Directions: Leaving Thornhill on the A873 towards Aberfoyle, Mollan is on the left hand side a mile outside the village. There are stone pillars and a knee height sign saying Mollan House at the entrance which leads to a tree lined drive.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Thornhill Primary School 60%

Gattonside Village Gardens

Gattonside TD6 9NP
The Gardeners of Gattonside

Sunday 28 July, 2pm - 5pm. Refreshments served in the village hall. Plants for sale at Allerly. (2024)

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A group of varied gardens situated on a south facing slope with views across the River Tweed to Melrose and its famous Abbey. Gattonside is known for its roses and fruit trees, once the fruit growing slopes for the Abbey monks. Walled gardens, herbaceous borders, fruit cages and vegetable gardens. Old and new gardens mixed together in this pretty village. Beautiful listed trees - copper birch, oak trees, fruit trees and espalier trees within the village and gardens - some dating back to the time of Walter Scott!

Directions: On the B6360 just outside the village of Gattonside on the LHS. First house after the 30mph sign. Short walk from Melrose over the chain bridge. Twenty minute walk along the River Tweed from Tweedbank railway station. By car access off A68, signposted Gattonside. Parking within the village.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Borders General Hospital, Margaret Kerr Unit 60%

Strathbungo Garden

March Street, Glasgow G41 2PX
Frank Burns

Sunday 28 July, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

2c47

W:facebook.com/strathbungogarden

Nestled behind Glasgow’s busy main road artery to the Southside, you will happen upon a hidden walled terrace garden which marks the historical boundary to Strathbungo. It’s an unexpected cottage-style city garden, showing how a piece of ground can be turned into a lovely colourful space for all the occupants of the terrace to enjoy. Inventive container planting is a key feature of this distinct urban retreat, which holds year-round interest. There is a range of fruit trees, some of which are trained as minarettes and stepovers. Why not visit Strathbungo Garden on Facebook and see what’s been happening in the garden over the past months?

Directions: From the south take the M74 to Junction 1A Polmadie. Turn left onto Polmadie Road, then turn right at the next traffic lights onto Calder Street. Proceed to Nithsdale Drive, then turn left into March Street where ample parking can be found. From the north take the M8 and join the M74, turn right into Polmadie Road at Junction 1A.

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: ALVO Rural South Lanarkshire 60%

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)

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T:01463 238238 E:ams@oldtownofleys.com

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & Highland Hospice 30%

Highland Liliums

10 Loaneckheim, Kiltarlity IV4 7JQ
Neil and Frances Macritchie

Open daily, 9am - 5pm (2024)

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

W:www.highlandliliums.co.uk

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Ardmaddy Castle

by Oban PA34 4QY
Mr and Mrs Archie Struthers

Open daily, 9am - dusk (2024)

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T:01852 300353 E:minette@ardmaddy.com

W:www.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

Raasay Walled Garden

Isle of Raasay IV40 8PB
Raasay Community

Open daily, 9am - 7pm (2024)

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

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

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Cambo Gardens

Kingsbarns KY16 8QD
Trustees of Cambo Heritage Trust

Open year round. Admission details can be found on the garden's website. (2024)

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

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

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

Directions: A917 between Crail and St Andrews.

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

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Mellerstain

Mellerstain House and Gardens, Gordon TD3 6LG
Mr Simon Rutherford

Open all year round. Open daily, 11am - 5pm. Snowdrops and winter walks during the snowdrop festival. Tours of the House are available (at extra cost) Fridays - Mondays from 7th April - 30th September. (2024)

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T:01573 410225 E:enquiries@mellerstain.com

W:https://www.mellerstain.com/

The house is located within 100 acres of mature parkland and whether you want to enjoy a walk in the garden or picnic under an ancient tree, Mellerstain provides a magnificent backdrop and a serene location that has changed very little since the days of Adam and Grisell Baillie. Whilst the formal Italianate terraces we enjoy today were introduced a mere century ago, they are sympathetic to the original 18th century layout and the views of the gardens to the lake and the Cheviot hills beyond are quite breath taking. The formal gardens that we enjoy today were designed in 1910 by Reginald Blomfield in an Italian style sympathetic to the 18th century layout.Situated to the south of the house are a series of beautiful terraces with herbaceous borders and yew trees. Steps lead via a crypto porticus to the lower terraces and a sweeping stretch of lawn descends to the lake. Mercury stands sentinel, one of the oldest residents here, included in the 1725 plans. Amongst the sturdy oaks and majestic beeches in the north parkland, you will find the enchanting little thatched cottage discreetly tucked away with its own enclosed parterre garden.

Directions: From Kelso, head south-west on E Bowmont St towards Henderson's Ct 0.5 miles. E Bowmont St turns slightly right and becomes Edinburgh Rd 0.3 miles. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Edinburgh Rd/A6089 Continue to follow A6089 for 5.5 miles. Turn left.

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

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Glenwhan Gardens & Arboretum

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

Open daily, 2pm - 5pm (2024)

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T:07787 990702

W:www.glenwhangardens.co.uk

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

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

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

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

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

The Hidden Gardens

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

2 January - 31 December (not Monday), 10am - 4:30pm (2024)

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

W:thehiddengardens.org.uk

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

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

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

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Gordon Castle Walled Garden

Fochabers, Moray IV32 7PQ
Angus and Zara Gordon Lennox

2 January - 31 December, admission details can be found on the garden's website. The cafe is open from Wednesday to Sunday. (2024)

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T:01343 612317 E:info@gordoncastlescotland.com

W:www.gordoncastle.co.uk

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

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

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

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

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Abriachan Garden Nursery

Loch Ness Side IV3 8LA
Mr and Mrs Davidson

1 February - 30 November, 9am - 5pm (2024)

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T:01463 861232 E:info@lochnessgarden.com

W:www.lochnessgarden.com

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

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

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Highland Hospice 60%

Logan Botanic Garden

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

1 March - 31 October 10am - 5pm & 1 November - 15 November 2pm - 4pm (2024)

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

W:www.rbge.org.uk/logan

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

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

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

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

Logie House

Dunphail, Forres IV36 2QN
Alasdair and Panny Laing

1 April - 31 December, 2pm - 5pm. Admission details can be found on the garden's website. (2024)

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E:panny@logie.co.uk

W:www.logie.co.uk

Originally a traditional formal garden, Logie House walled garden has been developed since 1991 with emphasis on trees, shrubs and hardy perennials, giving all-year-round interest. The meandering burn and dry stone walls support the creation of a wide variety of planting habitats from dry sunny banks to damp shady areas. Many of the unusual plants are propagated for sale in the Garden Shop at Logie Steading. Also features woodland and river walks.

Directions: Six miles south of Forres off the A940. Follow signs to Logie Steading.

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

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Craigieburn House

by Moffat DG10 9LF
Janet and Peter McGowan

31 March - 31 October (not Monday), 10:30am - 6pm (2024)

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T:07557 928648 E:bideshi@aol.com

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Ardchattan Priory

North Connel PA37 1RQ
Mrs Sarah Troughton

1 April - 31 October, 9:30am - 5:30pm (2024)

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T:01796 481355 E:admin@ardchattan.co.uk

W:www.ardchattan.co.uk

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Attadale

Strathcarron IV54 8YX
Mr Ewen Macpherson

1 April - 31 October, 10am - 5pm (2024)

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T:01520 722603 E:info@attadalegardens.com

W:www.attadalegardens.com

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

Directions: On the A890 between Strathcarron and South Strome.

Admission: £10.00, children free

Charities: Highland Hospice 60%

Explorers Garden

Port Na Craig, Pitlochry PH16 5DR
Pitlochry Festival Theatre

2 April - 26 October (not Monday & Sunday), 10am - 5pm. Last entry 4:00 pm. Please note payment is by card only. (2024)

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T:01796 484626

W:www.pitlochryfestivaltheatre.com

Designed as a Theatricum Botanicum, to showcase art and horticulture in one place. The Explorers Garden celebrates the rich history of Scottish Plant Explorers of the past. Across our serene, seven-acre woodland garden, you will find each area is dedicated to regions across the world including a large Himalayan section which houses our Meconopsis, beautiful Himalayan blue poppies. There are breathtaking views, buildings and stone structures with unique odes to Pitlochry’s Pictish past. The garden is a sanctuary for our resident red squirrels and there is visiting art throughout each garden space. We have live theatre performances in summer in our very own amphitheatre. This really is a garden like no other.
National Plant Collection: Meconopsis

Directions: Take the A9 to Pitlochry town, then follow signs to Pitlochry Festival Theatre, (tickets available at the Theatre Box Office). Bus and rail travel are both available to Pitlochry from further afield.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Leathad Ard

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

1 May - 30 September (not Sunday), 10am - 6pm (2024)

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

W:www.leathadard.org.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: British Red Cross 60%

Balmeanach House

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

1 May - 2 October, 11am - 4pm (2024)

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

W:www.skye-holiday.com

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

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

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Scottish SPCA 30% & Redwings 30%

The Potting Shed

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

5 June - 3 July (Wednesday only), 11am - 5pm (2024)

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T:01899 830574 E:buchanandunlop@btinternet.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support: Borders General Hospital 60%

Portmore

Eddleston EH45 8QU
Mr and Mrs David Reid

3 July - 28 August (Wednesday only), 1pm - 5pm (2024)

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T:07905 776894

W:www.portmoregardens.co.uk

Lovingly created by the current owners over the past 30 years; the gardens surrounding the David Bryce-designed mansion house contain mature trees and offer fine views of the surrounding countryside. Large walled garden with box-edged herbaceous borders is planted in stunning colour harmonies, potager, rose garden, pleached lime walk and ornamental fruit cages. The Victorian glasshouses contain fruit trees, roses, geraniums, pelargoniums and a wide variety of tender plants. There is also an Italianate grotto and water garden with shrubs and Meconopsis. The woodland walks are lined with rhododendrons, azaleas and shrub roses. Starred in Good Gardens Guide and featured in Kenneth Cox’s book Scotland for Gardeners and on Beechgrove.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00318

Directions: Off the A703 one mile north of Eddleston. Bus 62.

Admission: £7.00, children free

Charities: Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland 60%

Mouse Cottage

Strathtay, Pitlochry PH9 0PG
Penny Kennedy

By arrangement between 1 January - 29 November (not Sunday) (2024)

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T:07799 678067 E:mymousecottage@outlook.com

W:mousecottage.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

The Secret Garden

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

By arrangement between 1 January - 1 December (2024)

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Ar Dachaigh

Redhill Farm, Allanfearn, Inverness IV2 7JA
Mrs Tina Ross

By arrangement (2024)

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T:07920 803410 E:tinaross463@hotmail.co.uk

Ar Dachaigh has stunning views towards Kessock Bridge, the Black Isle and the Great Glen. The sloping garden is very exposed but after erecting fences, planting trees and hedging, the garden is beginning to flourish. As well as the colourful beds and borders, there are two ponds, five decks, and a large collection of plants in pots.

Directions: Ar Dachaigh is to be found on a farm directly off the A96, 4.5 miles east of Inverness. From Inverness head east along the A96. Shortly after the turn off for Alturlie, there is a turn-off on the left with an old telephone box - this is the drive for Ar Dachaigh. From the east once you have passed the Balloch junction, the turn-off for the garden will be on your right-hand side at the old telephone box. PLEASE TAKE CARE as this is a busy stretch of the A96, and there are no filter lanes. After crossing the railway line Ar Dachaigh is ahead of you on the left.

Admission: by donation

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Chaplains' Court

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

By arrangement between 1 March - 30 September (2024)

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T:01224 491675 E:irene@wischik.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: SSAFA Forces Help 60%

Ruthven Cottage Hardy Plant Nursery

Delnies, Nairn IV12 5NT
Mari and Kevin Reid

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2024)

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

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Hunter's Tryst

95 Oxgangs Road, Edinburgh EH10 7BA
Jean Knox

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2024)

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

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

Kilsyth Gardens

Allanfauld Road G65 9DE
Mr George Murdoch, Mr and Mrs Alan Patrick

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 August (2024)

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T:07743 110908 E: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%

South Flisk

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

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 June (2024)

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T:01334 850859 E:southfliskgarden@gmail.com

W:www.standrewspottery.co.uk

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%

Kirklands

Saline KY12 9TS
Peter and Gill Hart

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2024)

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

W:www.kirklandsgarden.co.uk

Kirklands, built in 1832, has been the Hart family home for 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

Fernlea Garden

Corvisel Road, Newton Stewart DG8 6LW
Mrs Jenny Gustafson

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2024)

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T:07909 951 885/ 01671 638273 E:jennygustafson2@hotmail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: GDI: Red Squirrels 60%

Kames Bay

Kilmelford PA34 4XA
Stuart Cannon

By arrangement between 16 April - 16 June (2024)

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T:07770 817877 E:kamesbay@talk21.com

Kames Bay garden has evolved from two acres of scrub and bracken on an exposed lochside hill into a natural, almost wild garden spread over 13 acres, which blends into the contours of the coastal landscape. A garden where visitors can wander at peace on the woodland walk, or the hillside walk edged with wild primroses and violets, or around the pond edged with hydrangeas. Relax on hidden benches to enjoy the magnificent views over Loch Melfort and the islands to the west. An enchanting garden full of vibrant colours, especially in the spring, with more than 100 varieties of azaleas and rhododendrons.

Directions: On the A816 Oban to Lochgilphead road. Opposite Kames Bay and the fish farm. Two-and-a-half miles south of Kilmelford and two-and-a-half miles north of Arduaine.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Netherlorn (Church of Scotland): Kilmelford Church New Annexe 60%

Highlands Garden

East Voe, Scalloway, Shetland ZE1 0UR
Sarah Kay

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2024)

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T:01595 880526/ 07818 845385 E:info@easterhoull.co.uk

W:www.selfcatering-shetland.co.uk/the-garden/

The garden is in two parts. The upper garden is mostly a rockery, with a large selection of plants, shallow pond, seating area, polycrub and greenhouse with fruit and vegetables. The lower garden is on a steep slope with a spectacular sea view over the village of Scalloway. There is a path to lead visitors around and the garden features a large collection of plants, vegetable patch, deep pond and pergola. It was awarded a Shetland Environmental Award in 2014 for its strong theme of recycling. The owner also has an art studio which you are most welcome to visit when you view the garden.

Directions: Follow the A970 main road towards the village of Scalloway. Near the top of the hill heading towards Scalloway take a sharp turn to the left, signposted Easterhoull Chalets. Follow the road to chalets (painted blue with red roofs) and you will see the yellow SGS sign for the garden. Bus 4 from Lerwick/Scalloway.

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support 60%

101 Greenbank Crescent

Edinburgh EH10 5TA
Jerry and Christine Gregson

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 July (2024)

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

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: St.Columba’s Hospice Care 60%

Pitcurran House

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

By arrangement between 1 May - 1 September (2024)

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T:01738 850933 E:patricianp@pitcurran.com

This end-of-village garden was created 20 years ago. It includes an interesting combination of trees, rare shrubs and herbaceous plants including azaleas, rhododendrons, tree paeonies, trillium and veratrum. Also a rose pergola, eucryphias and a large west-facing hydrangea border for the later summer. Above the pond there is a good collection of pink and white-barked birch, and a young arboretum, from which there are fine views over the Earn and Tay valleys.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Limited 60%

Barlockhart Lodge

Glenluce DG8 0JG
Barlockhart Gardeners

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2024)

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T:07821 776226 E:neilharper1962@btinternet.com

A newly-created garden, which is very much a work in progress. The main part is a reclaimed riding manege, which has been transformed with meandering paths around borders planted with perennials and grasses to reflect the local undulating landscape. An alpine border and greenhouse are to one side of the house and traditional cottage-style borders are to the front and other side. A small vegetable plot with no-dig beds and raised areas is to the rear. The garden is situated about a mile from Luce Bay and has the benefits of the Gulf Stream, but the disadvantages of an exposed, shadeless position.

Directions: Take the A75 to Glenluce. On the hill which links the two Glenluce turnoffs, take the single-track unmarked lane, signposted for Whithorn Way. Property is roughly one mile along the lane, on the left.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Galloway Music Festival 60%

Thorntree

Arnprior FK8 3EY
Mark and Carol Seymour

By arrangement between 1 May - 1 September (2024)

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T:01786 870710 E:carolseymour666@gmail.com

W:www.thorntreebarn.co.uk

In 2024, Thorntree looks forward to welcoming visitors to their garden opening on Sunday 9 June as well as by arrangement on other dates. Carol will happily walk round the garden with you or you can wander on your own. The garden continues to evolve and cotoneasters by the saltire beds have been cut back which means the four flower beds are no longer hidden behind a hedge! Also, the view past the summerhouse can be seen and the Annabelle hydrangea has popped up now that there are fewer branches above it. It is an inspiring garden to visit at any time of the year. From the garden you can see panoramic views from Ben Lomond to Doune, watching the Forth meander down the bottom of the valley.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Forth Driving Group RDA SCIO 60%

Haugh Garden

College of Roseisle IV30 5YE
Gwynne and David Hetherington

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 July (2024)

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T:01343 835790 E:davidhetherington26@gmail.com

A lovely two-acre garden to enjoy and to relax in. Wander through woodland and meadows, and in and around eye-catching perennial borders with unusual plants and shrubs, a pond and an orchard, all attracting a diversity of insects and birds. Our organic vegetable garden and polytunnel keep us well supplied and using the no-dig method, without need for artificial fertiliser or chemicals. Our garden delights us with year-round interest starting with various spring bulbs and flowering shrubs and continuing through to late autumn colours

Directions: From Elgin take the A96 west, then the B9013 Burghead Road to the crossroads at the centre of College of Roseisle. The garden is on the right, enter from the Duffus Road. Car parking at the village hall off Kinloss road. Drop off and disabled parking is available at the house.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & CHAS 30%

Dal an Eas

Kilmore, Oban PA34 4XU
Mary Lindsay

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2024)

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T:01631 770246 E: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

Eas Mhor

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

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2024)

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T:01852 300469 E:kimbra1745@gmail.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

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

Helensbank House

Kincardine FK10 4QZ
David Buchanan-Cook

By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2024)

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T:07739 312912 E:Helensbank@aol.com

W:www.helensbank.com

Hidden away from public view, this is an 18th-century walled garden, with main feature a Cedar of Lebanon, reputedly planted in 1750 by the sea captain who built the house. The tree is registered as a 'Notable Tree' and while it provides challenges for planting, in terms of shade and needle fall, the microclimate it provides has encouraged the owner's passion for pushing boundaries and growing unusual and exotic plants. Distinctive garden ‘rooms’ in part of the garden comprise a perennial blue and white cottage garden, a formal rose garden and an Italian double courtyard with citrus trees in pots. A ‘hot’ courtyard contains exotics including varieties of banana, acacia, iochroma, impatiens, melianthus and brugmansia. A shaded walk along the bottom of the garden leads to a Japanese themed area including a pagoda and dry river. A large glasshouse hosts various exotic and climbing plants. The garden has well over a hundred roses, including the National Collection of Portland roses. These are best viewed from mid June to early July.
National Plant Collection: Portland Roses
Champion Trees: The garden has a 'notable' Cedar of Lebanon, the second largest in Fife

Directions: The garden is down a lane off the main Toll Road. SGS signs.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Maggie's 60%

Portmore

Eddleston EH45 8QU
Mr and Mrs David Reid

By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2024)

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T:07905 776894

W:www.portmoregardens.co.uk

Lovingly created by the current owners over the past 30 years; the gardens surrounding the David Bryce-designed mansion house contain mature trees and offer fine views of the surrounding countryside. Large walled garden with box-edged herbaceous borders is planted in stunning colour harmonies, potager, rose garden, pleached lime walk and ornamental fruit cages. The Victorian glasshouses contain fruit trees, roses, geraniums, pelargoniums and a wide variety of tender plants. There is also an Italianate grotto and water garden with shrubs and Meconopsis. The woodland walks are lined with rhododendrons, azaleas and shrub roses. Starred in Good Gardens Guide and featured in Kenneth Cox’s book Scotland for Gardeners and on Beechgrove.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00318

Directions: Off the A703 one mile north of Eddleston. Bus 62.

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

Charities: Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland 60%

10 Pilmuir Road West

Forres IV36 2HL
Mrs Lorraine Dingwall

By arrangement between 1 June - 1 September (2024)

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T:01309 674634 E:fixandig@aol.com

Plantswoman’s small town garden with over 300 cultivars of hostas, an extensive collection of hardy geraniums together with many other unusual plants. Managed entirely without the use of artificial fertilisers or chemicals, the owner encourages hedgehogs, toads and wild birds to control slugs. In early spring there are approximately 150 named snowdrops to be seen, some of which are very rare.

Directions: From Tesco roundabout at Forres continue along Nairn Road. Take the first left onto Ramflat Road, then go right at the bottom and first left onto Pilmuir Road West.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support 60%

Two Gardens in Banchory Devenick

Banchory Devenick AB12 5XR
Angela and Derek Townsley & Jane and Terry O'Kelly

By arrangement between 1 June - 31 July (2024)

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T:text 07712 528450 E:janeokelly868@gmail.com

Pinetrees Cottage Banchory Devenick AB12 5XR (Angela and Derek Townsley): A mature garden set in three-quarters of an acre, filled with a wide range of hardy plants including rhododendrons, azaleas, acers, topiary and roses, with two ponds. An alpine house is fronted by stone troughs filled with rock plants. Set in a backdrop of mature pine trees to the north and open fields to the south.

Whin Cottage Ardoe, Aberdeen AB12 5XT (Jane and Terry O'Kelly): A cottage garden of just under half an acre surrounded by farmland. It features a border of rhododendrons and azaleas, several mixed borders, two formal rose beds, a wildlife pond and four raised beds growing a variety of vegetables and flowers for the house. The garden reflects a love of colour and structure and an interest in wildlife.

Directions: Pinetrees Cottage: Banchory Devenick is four miles from Bridge of Dee. Turn off B9077 at Banchory Devenick church. Follow to T-junction, turn right. Next right is Butterywells Steading. Turn into opening and follow track, go around the back of farmhouse (Lochend) and continue on track to Pinetrees. Whin Cottage: Take the B9077 out of Aberdeen. After approximately two miles turn left immediately after Banchory Devenick Church, signposted Banchory Devenick. (There is parking available along the verge on the left). Turn right after 100 metres. Whin Cottage is on the right immediately after you have turned. There is limited parking outside the cottage.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Fighting For Sight Aberdeen 60%

Kemplemyres Farmhouse

Alvah, Banff AB45 3UR
Jane Duffield

By arrangement between 29 - 30 June, 27 - 28 July & 24 - 25 August (2024)

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T:07778 083759 E:janeduffield@hotmail.co.uk

A large wildlife garden, still in the making. Starting from a completely blank canvas 15 years ago, we wanted the garden to blend sympathetically in to the wider, natural landscape. We’re constantly learning how to garden creatively, in order to live harmoniously alongside the visiting deer and badgers! Areas of interest include a rose garden, stone circle garden, dell garden, two wildlife ponds, mixed shrub beds and our current project, a small walled kitchen garden.

Directions: From Turriff, take the B9025, signposted to Aberchirder. Approximately five miles out of Turriff, turn right, on to the B9121, signposted Banff and Whitehills. After approximately two miles, take the right hand turn, signposted Alvah. The road passes farm buildings on your left. Just past these, at the bottom of the hill, take the left hand turn, signposted Kirktown of Alvah. The road dips down to a small bridge over a burn, with a short, steep climb up the other side. Our drive is on the right-hand side, by the big beech tree, with double wooden gates, signposted Kemplemyres Farmhouse and the Bothy.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support 60%

Larch House

Clerklands, Near Lilliesleaf TD6 9JR
David and Julia King

By arrangement between 1 July - 31 August (2024)

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T:01835 870888 M: 07985 691775 E:northcorner14@btinternet.com

New for 2024, the garden at Larch House is constantly evolving. Extending to over three acres and building on a layout, design and planting by the previous owners, further landscaping and renovation is ongoing. It includes a terraced area of vegetables and cut flowers edged by fruit trees, several mixed borders surrounding a lawn, a large natural wildlife pond and a newly-planted bog garden. The garden leads into a mixed wood planted about six years ago where meandering paths, sometimes steep, lead to extensive views of the Cheviots. Many of the paths are gravel and may prove difficult for wheelchairs.

Directions: Clerklands is a small hamlet approximately two miles from Lilliesleaf. On the A7 from Selkirk, turn left and follow signs to Clerklands. After approximately three miles the house will be clearly signed. On the A7 from Hawick, turn right and follow signs to Lilliesleaf and the house will be clearly signed. Car parking is on site.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries