Garden Openings

Stobshiel House

Humbie EH36 5PD
Mr Maxwell and Lady Sarah Ward

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

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie 60%

Ardchattan Priory

North Connel PA37 1RQ
Mrs Sarah Troughton

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

0c85d7

E:admin@ardchattan.co.uk

W:www.ardchattan.co.uk

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn

Wednesdays only 2 - 30 April, 1pm - 4pm. (2025)

7

T:01721 740220 E:rpthorburn@icloud.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Shepherd House

Inveresk, Musselburgh EH21 7TH
Sir Charles and Lady Fraser

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

467

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

W:www.shepherdhousegarden.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Barrahormid Trust 60%

Longwood

Humbie EH36 5PN
Linda Flockhart and Sandra Gentle

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

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 60%

Ardvorlich

Lochearnhead FK19 8QE
Mr and Mrs Sandy Stewart

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

7

T:01567 830335

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: The Ghurka Welfare Trust 60%

SGS Kilmacolm Plant Sale

Outside Kilmacolm Library, Kilmacolm PA13 4LE
Scotland's Gardens Scheme

Saturday 19 April & Saturday 12 July, 10am - 12pm, donations welcome. (2025)

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Spring and summer plant sales in the middle of Kilmacolm

Directions: The plant sales are held at the Cross outside the Library and Cargill centre in the middle of Kilmacolm. Accessible by McGill's buses

Admission: by donation

Charities: Pancreatic Cancer Action 60%

Megginch Castle

Errol PH2 7SW
Giles Herdman and Catherine Drummond-Herdman

Sunday 27 April, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

25ea7

E:info@megginch.com

W:megginchcastle.com

We welcome you to come and enjoy the peace and beauty of Megginch. Wander through the golden daffodils and the cascades of pear and apple blossom in the ancient orchard. Finish up in the warm conservatory with the castle as your backdrop, overlooking the 19th century formal gardens. Have a (several - free refills included!) hot cup of tea in fine china cups and sample the delicious home baked creations from the castle kitchens! We love having your dogs on leads and your children running free! Please note that Megginch is a family home and so not open to the public apart from the SGS day on Sunday 27th April.
National Plant Collection: Scottish cider apples, Scottish Heritage apples and pears
Champion Trees: Acer palmatum

Directions: Ten miles from Perth and Dundee directly off the A90, Perth-bound carriageway, 600 yards after the Errol/Rait flyover, on the left hand side, 300 yards after Beware Pedestrians Crossing sign.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Eglinton and Glencairn Gardens

Eglinton Crescent, Edinburgh EH12 5DD
Eglinton and Glencairn Gardens Association

Sunday 27 April, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

284579

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

The Eglinton and Glencairn Gardens are an oasis of calm in Edinburgh’s West End. Covering two acres, they consist of lawns, flower beds and a fine collection of trees including a Camperdown Elm. They are well-used and enjoyed by the residents of the two crescents and include a small children’s play area. The gardens are maintained on organic principles. Situated just off Palmerston Place, they are probably at their best in spring time with a profusion of blossom. Created at the end of the nineteenth century, the paths wander through the trees, shrubs and lawns, with plenty of places to sit and enjoy the peace of the gardens.

Directions: The gardens lie off Palmerston Place, between Eglinton Crescent and Glencairn Crescent, 10 minutes walk from Haymarket station, which can be reached by tram and Lothian buses including numbers 26 and 31 stopping outside the station and 4 and 44 in Dalry Road

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: The Trussell Trust 60%

Newliston

Kirkliston EH29 9EB
Mr and Mrs R C Maclachlan

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

6d7

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

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

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: CHAS 60%

Ascog Hall Garden and Fernery

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

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

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

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

The Biblical Garden

King Street, Elgin, Moray IV30 1HU
The Friends of the Biblical Garden

Saturday 3 May, 11am - 3pm (2025)

3c467

W:biblicalgardenelgin.co.uk

The Biblical Garden opened to the public in June 1996. The success of the garden since its opening relies on a good working partnership among the Friends of the Biblical Garden, Moray Council and UHI Moray. The Garden, cared for by horticulture students studying at UHI Moray, has grown and developed over the years and is now host to a broad range of garden features, interesting plants and mature trees. The main central area is paved and, together with the surrounding borders, reflects a Celtic cross. A large rose arbour represents the neighbouring cathedral. The gardens also host a rock garden, woodland garden, winter border, herbaceous border and an oriental-themed garden. Visitors will also be able to visit the teaching and growing areas behind the scenes.

Directions: The gardens are on King Street, off North College Street and are adjacent to Elgin Cathedral. Parking along King Street is limited. All main bus routes stop along the A96 and the garden is in easy walking distance from these.

Admission: by donation

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Kames Bay

Kilmelford PA34 4XA
Stuart Cannon

Saturday/Sunday, 3/4 May, 2pm - 6pm (2025)

2c7

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: £5.00, children free

Charities: Netherlorn (Church of Scotland) 60%

4 Port Ann

Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8SE
Chris and Anne Buckland

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

34679

E:chrisbuckland3@hotmail.com

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

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

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: MND Scotland 60%

2 Panmure Terrace

Dundee DD3 6HP
Janet Ireland

Saturday 3 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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E:lunan@me.com

2 Panmure Terrace is situated on the south side of Dundee Law. The front garden is densely planted with silver birch trees, some shrubs, grasses and herbaceous perennials.The back garden has trees, a collection of tree ferns and shade-loving plants. There are several seating areas for quiet contemplation.

Directions: The garden is situated behind Dudhope Park. The best approach from the centre of town is up Barrack Road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 60%

The Gardens of Monimail Tower

Monimail Tower Project, by Letham KY15 7RJ
The Gardeners of Monimail Tower Project

Sunday 4 May, 10am - 4pm (2025)

2c67

T:07505 424905 E:monimailtower@posteo.uk

W:https://www.monimailtower.org

Monimail Tower gardens is situated in the Howe of Fife, a 19th century walled garden and orchard, built around a 15th century tower, the remains of Cardinal Beaton's summer palace. The garden has been an organic vegetable garden since 1985. We are now developing flower beds, but very much in a natural and wildlife friendly way. You will find peacefulness and tranquillity, but not the formality associated with walled gardens. It is a haven for invertebrates and birds. The garden hosts a site for allotments for local people and the woodlands and orchard are open to the general public all year round with a carpet of snowdrops, aconites, then followed by wild garlic in spring. The garden has a marvellous aspect sloping south, surrounded by ancient yew trees and an orchard. The tower is open to visitors and hosts a little museum. You can climb up to the roof and enjoy a beautiful view.

Directions: Monimail Tower Project is situated in Monimail, a hamlet on the road between Letham and Collessie

Admission: by donation

Charities: Monimail Tower Project Ltd 60%

Old Farm Cottage

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

Sunday 4 May, 11am - 4pm (2025)

03c467

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

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

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

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Dogs Trust 60%

The Steading at Clunie

The Steading PH10 6SG
Jean and Dave Trudgill

Sunday 4 May, 2pm - 4pm (2025)

67k

T:01250 884263 E:davetrudgill@googlemail.com

‘A little bit of paradise’ a visitor once commented on a spring day when our wildflower meadow was covered with cowslips and cuckoo flower, and the banks of the Lunan Burn with primroses and wood anemones. The Steading at Newmill is on the north bank of the Lunan Burn midway between Lochs Clunie and Marlee. The grounds extend to about six acres with ponds, woodland, and bridges. There is an old mill building and mill lade and there are 800 metres of riverside walks. The Steading has a small cottage garden and a pond where children can feed the fish. A video of Newmill is on Youtube (search for ‘Newmill: creating and managing an orchid meadow’). Narrow paths, bridges and flowing water. One dog on lead only. Holiday accommodation: the Bothy sleeps five and is available for weekly lets.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Save the Children UK 60%

Dowhill

Cleish KY4 0HZ
Mrs Colin Maitland Dougall

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

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T:01577 850207 E:pippamd@icloud.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: MND Scotland 60%

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn

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

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T:01721 740220 E:rpthorburn@icloud.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Haystoun

Peebles EH45 9JG
Mrs Mary Coltman

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

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T:01721 720645

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

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

Admission: £7.00, children free

Charities: St.Columba’s Hospice Care 60%

Baravalla Garden

by West Loch Tarbert, Argyll PA29 6YE
Baravalla Garden Partnership - Matt Heasman- Director

Thursday 8 May, 10am - 7pm (2025)

2c7

T:07793604609 E:mtheasman@outlook.com

W:rscg.org.uk

This wild garden of 26 acres is carved out of typical Argyll woodland, with mature oak, beech, hazel and alder that run down to the shores of the West Loch some seven miles from Tarbert. The 'Two Peters', Sir Peter Hutchison Bt. CBE FRSE and Peter Cox MBE, both botanical travellers, were looking for an area to plant the more tender plants from their colder east coast gardens. They found the site here with the help of the Mackie Campbell Family and some 50 years ago started to create a garden with collections of plants from all over the world, rhododendrons, magnolias, azaleas, camellias, tender shrubs and so much more. The garden now is mature, managed and maintained by the Rhododendron Species Conservation Group. This garden is very rarely open. This is a truly wild garden and stout footwear and clothing for protection against the Argyll weather are recommended.

Directions: From Tarbert Village, through the village take the B8024 past the golf course, turn left on the Kilberry road for about seven miles. SGS signs will direct you to a car park just through the gate on the right hand side. Please do not attempt to come down the forest track but follow the signs and walk down the track to the garden. We will provide guided tours at regular intervals.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Rhododendron Species Conservation Group 60%

16 Mulla

Voe, Shetland ZE2 9XQ
Linda Richardson

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

2c47

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

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: RSPB: for projects in Shetland 60%

Bridgend Farmhouse Community Allotments

41 Old Dalkeith Road EH16 4TE
Bridgend Farmhouse Community Allotments

Saturday 10 May & Sunday 20 July, 11am - 3pm (2025)

0c84579

T:07738399185 E:jo@bridgendfarmhouse.org.uk

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

Discover a hidden gem in South Edinburgh, a peaceful community growing space where everyone is welcome. Under the backdrop of Arthur's Seat, we grow annual and perennial vegetables and fruit, and enjoy it with our community. We are an organic garden, with an emphasis on biodiversity and sustainable gardening practices. Why not take a moment to wander around the rest of the Bridgend Farmhouse site, explore our peace garden, café, and workshop spaces

Directions: There is only disabled parking at Bridgend Farmhouse, so we encourage visitors to come by bike, bus (24, 33, 38, 49), or park at Cameron Toll Shopping Centre, a 10 minute walk away.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Bridgend Farmhouse 60%

Cally Biodiversity Gardens

Cally Avenue, Gatehouse of Fleet DG7 2DJ
Kevin Hughes

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

2c57

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

W:www.callygardens.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: WWF-UK 60%

Cloan

by Auchterarder PH3 1PP
Neil Mitchison

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

267

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

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

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

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Tiphereth Limited: Camphill Scotland 60%

Tyninghame House and The Walled Garden

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

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

345ed7

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

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

Champion Trees: Two British and seven Scottish

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Leuchie 60%

Dalswinton House

Dalswinton DG2 0XZ
Mr and Mrs Peter Landale

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

246d7

T:01387 740220 E:sarahlandale@gmail.com

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

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Kirkmahoe Parish Church of Scotland 60%

Highwood

off Lochwinnoch Road, Kilmacolm PA13 4TF
Dr Jill Morgan

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

2c7

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Orkidstudio 60%

Kilchoan Gardens

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

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

2679

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

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

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

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

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

Regent, Royal and Carlton Terrace Gardens

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

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

347

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

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

Admission: £7.50, children free

Charities: Flourish 60%

Milton of Finavon House

Forfar DD8 3PY

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

0c857

E:enquiries@miltonoffinavonhouse.co.uk

W:miltonoffinavonhouse.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Woodfall Gardens

Glasserton DG8 8LY
Ross and Liz Muir

Sunday 18 May, Sunday 15 June & Sunday 20 July, 10.30am - 4.30pm. Please check the garden’s website for details of further openings. (2025)

67

E:woodfallgardens@btinternet.com

W:www.woodfall-gardens.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Whithorn Primary School 60%

Torwood House

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

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

24679

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 60%

Inchmarlo Retirement Village Garden

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

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

457

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

W:www.inchmarlo-retirement.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

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

Ross Priory

Gartocharn G83 8NL
University of Strathclyde

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

2c467

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

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

Arbigland House

Kirkbean, Dumfries DG2 8BQ
Alistair Alcock and Wayne Whittaker

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

06d7

T:01387 880764 E:alcockalistair@gmail.com

W:www.arbiglandhouseandgardens.co.uk

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

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

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

Moray Place and Bank Gardens

Edinburgh EH3 6BX
The Residents of the Moray Feu

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

2467

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

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

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

Brechin Castle

Brechin DD9 6SG
The Earl and Countess of Dalhousie

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

2c46d7

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

W:www.dalhousieestates.co.uk

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

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

Temple Village Gardens

Temple EH23 4SQ
Temple Village Gardeners

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

23c67

T:01875 830253 E:delapsandy@gmail.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Temple Village Halls Association 60%

Tinnisburn Plants

Upper Millsteads, Canonbie DG14 0RY
Helen Knowles

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

a7

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

W:tinnisburn.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

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

Angus Plant Sale

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

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

067

E:sgsangusdundee@gmail.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Inveryne Woodland Garden

Kilfinan, Tighnabruaich PA21 2ER
Mrs Jane Ferguson

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

2c7

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Cowal Elderly Befrienders SCIO 60%

Tigh-na-Beithe

Birnam Glen, Birnam, Dunkeld PH8 0BW
The Robbs

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

079

E:ericarobb555@gmail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

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

Kilbryde Castle

Dunblane FK15 9NF
Sir James and Lady Campbell

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

3c67

T:01786 824897 E:carolaandjames@googlemail.com

W:www.kilbrydecastle.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Leighton Library Trust 60%

Westerhall

Bentpath, Langholm DG13 0NQ
Mrs Peter Buckley

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

1c67

E:mary.buckley@hotmail.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Westerkirk Parish Trust 60%

Kirklands

Saline KY12 9TS
Peter and Gill Hart

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

467

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

W:www.kirklandsgarden.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Saline & District Heritage Society 60%

Earlshall Castle

Leuchars KY16 0DP
Paul and Josine Veenhuijzen

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

6d7

T:01334 839205

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

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

Lindores House

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

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

2c467

T:01337 840369

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

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

Gardens House

Houston Renfrewshire PA6 7AU
Mark and Melanie Crichton Maitland

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

2c79

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support 60%

Swallows Rest

Lindores KY14 6JD
Stuart & Elaine Ingram

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

47

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Corsock House

Corsock, Castle Douglas DG7 3DJ
The Ingall family

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

2c67

T:01644 440250 E:jingall@hotmail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Corsock & Kirkpatrick Durham Church Of Scotland 60%

Bonhard House

Perth PH2 7PQ
Stephen and Charlotte Hay

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

267

T:07990 574570 E:stephenjohnhay@me.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Freedom from Fistula Foundation 60%

Hospitalfield Gardens

Hospitalfield House, Westway, Arbroath DD11 2NH
Hospitalfield Trust

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

3467

E:info@hospitalfield.org.uk

W:www.hospitalfield.org.uk

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Mellerstain

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

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

3c67

T:01573 410225 E:enquiries@mellerstain.com

W:www.mellerstain.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Mellerstain Trust 60%

Beechwood

Broughton, Peeblesshire ML12 6HH
Susheila and James Gordon

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

267

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

W:www.rachan.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: MND Scotland 60%

Struanbridge

Essich Road, Inverness IV2 6AH
Marcus and Catriona Jenks

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

247

E:mjenks@greenx.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Mikeysline 60%

River Garden, The Restoration of Auchincruive

The Bothy Office, Auchincruive KA6 5AE
Head Gardener

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

3467

E:enquiries@ifdas.net

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: IFDAS 60%

Dundonnell House

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QW
Dundonnell Estates

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

2c6e7

T:07789 390028 E:sueandwill@icloud.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

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

Quercus Garden Plants

Whitmuir Farm, West Linton EH46 7BB
Rona Dodds

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

c7

T:01968 660708 E:quercusgardenplants@gmail.com

W:www.quercusgardenplants.co.uk

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Breast Cancer Now 60%

Damnaglaur House

Drummore, Stranraer DG9 9QN
Frances Collins

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

2c67

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

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: British Red Cross: Yemen appeal 60%

Brooklands

Crocketford DG2 8QH
Mr and Mrs Robert Herries

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

2c67

T:Gardener, Matthew Grieve: 07765 491902

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Cowhill Tower

Holywood DG2 0RL
Mr and Mrs P Weatherall

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

2c5d7

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

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

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Maggie's 60%

Ardverikie with Aberarder

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

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

167

T:01528 544300 E:amanda@ardverikie.com

Ardverikie

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

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

Aberarder

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

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

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

Admission: £8.00, children free

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

West Leas

near Bonchester Bridge TD9 8TD
Mr and Mrs Robert Laidlaw

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

267

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

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

Directions: Signposted off the Jedburgh/Bonchester Bridge Road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support: Borders Appeal 60%

The Potting Shed

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

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

c67

T:01899 830574 E:buchanandunlop@btinternet.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

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

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn

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

7

T:01721 740220 E:rpthorburn@icloud.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Bradystone House

Murthly PH1 4EW
Mrs James Lumsden

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

c467

T:01738 710308 E:pclumsden@me.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 60%

Cloan

by Auchterarder PH3 1PP
Neil Mitchison

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

267

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

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

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

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Tiphereth Limited: Camphill Scotland 60%

Oatridge College Campus - SRUC

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

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

0c4679

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

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: SRUC: Student Hardship Fund 60%

Easter Laggan

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

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

67

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: The Rotherham Hospice Trust 60%

Redcroft

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

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

3c8467

T:07989 977701 E:annabuxtonb@aol.com

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

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

Admission: £7.00, children free

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

Coul House

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

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

257

T:07525 791277 E:Clareansell5@gmail.com

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

Directions: From the A92, follow signs for Pitcairn.

Admission: £6.00, children free

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

Laura's Wood

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

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

267k9

E:acrom265@aol.com

W:www.westshaird.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Parkinsons UK 60%

Ilha de Deus

Tiroran, Isle of Mull PA69 6ET
John Innes

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

2c79

T:01681705022 E:johninnes2009@hotmail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Open Doors with Brother Andrew 60%

Ardchattan Priory

North Connel PA37 1RQ
Mrs Sarah Troughton

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

2c85d7

E:admin@ardchattan.co.uk

W:www.ardchattan.co.uk

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Norton House

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

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

1c867

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

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

Admission: £10.00, children free

Charities: Children 1ST 60%

Capenoch

Penpont, Thornhill DG3 4LZ
Mr and Mrs John Gladstone

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

2467

E:jbgladstone@gmail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Ronald McDonald House Glasgow 60%

Dean Gardens

Edinburgh EH4 1QE
Dean Gardens Management Committee

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

28467

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

Directions: Entrance at Ann Street or Eton Terrace.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Elsewhere Garden

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

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

84579

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

Tucked in a hidden nook of the grounds of Glasgow’s Royal Hospital for Children, the Elsewhere Garden has transformed what was once a purposeless grassed landscape into a playful refuge for patients and staff. The garden was commissioned by Teapot Trust, a charity bringing play and art therapy to chronically sick children. It was designed by Semple Begg, who chose a palette of plants to inspire creativity and imagination, for which they won a gold medal at RHS Chelsea in 2023. The planting was adapted for the Glasgow location, and further enhanced by a donation of plants from Dior’s Drummond Castle fashion show in June 2024. In the garden you’ll meet an array of colourful perennials, and the characterful Picea abies ‘Inversa’. The wide, snaking paths will take you by shady beds of ferns, sun-loving salvias, whimsical grasses, and candy-coloured blooms. Pause at one of the many seating spots and let your imagination roam – what do the plant forms conjure up for you?

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Teapot Trust: 30% to the Elsewhere Garden 60%

Blair Castle Gardens

Blair Atholl PH18 5TL
Blair Charitable Trust

Saturday 14 June, 9:30am - 5pm (2025)

345d7k

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

W:www.blair-castle.co.uk

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

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

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

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

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Gullane House

Sandy Loan, Gullane EH31 2BH
William and Judy Thomson

Saturday/Sunday, 14/15 June, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

46e7

A traditional walled garden of three acres. The front of the house looks onto rose-hedged twin herbaceous borders with successional planting, the south border having been refreshed for 2023. A small lily pond leads through to the rose and lavender garden planted in 2018. The next ‘room’ is reached through a beech hedge and houses soft fruits and vegetables and an informal barbecue area. The orchard boasts a selection of fruit trees and there are magnificent mature trees throughout the garden.
Champion Trees: Elm, Oak

Directions: Gullane House is situated on Sandy Loan about 30 yards from the main street in Gullane. Public transport: regular buses from Edinburgh stop in Gullane.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: The Ridge SCIO 60%

Barrmill Community Garden

Barrmill Park and Gardens KA15 1HW
The Barrmill Conservation Group

Saturday 14 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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. There is also an established allotment growing area and 'Threads of Time' mural to visit at the rear of the community centre.

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%

Rivaldsgreen House

48 Friars Brae, Linlithgow EH49 6BG
Dr Ian Wallace

Saturday 14 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

467

T:07801 855146 E:ianwjw1940@gmail.com

Mature two-acre garden with lovely mixed herbaceous, rose, and tree planting.

Directions: From the west end of the High Street turn into Preston Road, after crossing the canal turn left into Priory Road and at the T junction turn left down Friars Brae. There is car parking available.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: St John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital Group 60%

The Gardens of Monimail Tower

Monimail Tower Project, by Letham KY15 7RJ
The Gardeners of Monimail Tower Project

Sunday 15 June, 10am - 4pm (2025)

2c67

T:07505 424905 E:monimailtower@posteo.uk

W:https://www.monimailtower.org

Monimail Tower gardens is situated in the Howe of Fife, a 19th century walled garden and orchard, built around a 15th century tower, the remains of Cardinal Beaton's summer palace. The garden has been an organic vegetable garden since 1985. We are now developing flower beds, but very much in a natural and wildlife friendly way. You will find peacefulness and tranquillity, but not the formality associated with walled gardens. It is a haven for invertebrates and birds. The garden hosts a site for allotments for local people and the woodlands and orchard are open to the general public all year round with a carpet of snowdrops, aconites, then followed by wild garlic in spring. The garden has a marvellous aspect sloping south, surrounded by ancient yew trees and an orchard. The tower is open to visitors and hosts a little museum. You can climb up to the roof and enjoy a beautiful view.

Directions: Monimail Tower Project is situated in Monimail, a hamlet on the road between Letham and Collessie

Admission: by donation

Charities: Monimail Tower Project Ltd 60%

An Caorann

Abernethy, Perthshire PH2 9LG
Paul Lacey

Sunday 15 June, 12pm - 4pm (2025)

24679

E:laceyp2@btinternet.com

A young garden under development designed by my late wife, Moira Lacey, with stunning views over the rivers Tay and Earn. Her talent as an artist is reflected in the plant choices and design. A haven for wildlife including woodpeckers, red squirrels and birds of prey. The garden includes herbaceous borders, alpines, conifers, a small vegetable garden and a pond full of water lilies.

Directions: From the centre of Abernethy turn into Kirk Wynd and the garden is second on the right after the Williamson Hall car park. Parking is at the Williamson Hall with limited parking on the garden driveway. Accessible by public transport with a 10 minute walk.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation: Cornhill Macmillan Centre 60%

Glenkyllachy

Tomatin IV13 7YA
Mr and Mrs Philip Mackenzie

Sunday 15 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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, polytunnel, fruit cage and greenhouse as well as original sculptures and a Highgrove-inspired wall which provide year round interest. Featured on TV Beechgrove, in The English Garden Magazine and recently in Scottish Field (November 2023). The garden is constantly evolving with new areas being developed and planting schemes changed.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie 60%

Teasses Gardens

near Ceres KY8 5PG

Wednesday 18 June. A Summer Solstice evening tour of the garden accompanied by the Estate Manager and former Head Gardener. Tickets are £15 per head (children free) including wine and nibbles. Timings to be confirmed. (2025)

367

E:events@teasses.com

W:www.teasses.com

Please note that tickets for both events are limited and must be booked in advance - please see the SGS website for details.

Directions: Between Ceres and Largo. Access via farm entrance on Woodside Road.

Admission: £15.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Beechwood

Broughton, Peeblesshire ML12 6HH
Susheila and James Gordon

Saturday/Sunday, 21/22 June, 11am - 5pm (2025)

267

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

W:www.rachan.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: MND Scotland 60%

Gifford Village with Gifford Bank and Broadwoodside

Gifford EH41 4QU
Gardeners of Gifford; Elaine and Richard Austin (Gifford Bank); Anna and Robert Dalrymple (Broadwoodside)

Sunday 22 June, 11am - 5pm (2025)

267

Gifford Village The gardens vary in size and type, from the compact and informal to the large and formal. Gifford was laid out in the early 18th century and has retained much of its original charm. The village includes a beautiful church built in 1708, the Lime Avenue of Yester House and a community woodland — all gardens are within walking distance of each other. In addition to several gardens within the village centre, entry is also included to the larger gardens of Gifford Bank and Broadwoodside, both within easy walking distance.

Broadwoodside (EH41 4JQ) 'is a remarkable achievement. It is a country house that is both memorable and noteworthy, without ever falling into the trap of architectural pretension. That is perhaps because the humble origins of the steading still shine through the transformation to lend texture and interest to the buildings. No less remarkable is the way that the house graduates into the garden and the garden into the landscape. This is a house that feels not merely at home in its setting, but born from it. Finally, there is the delight of the place, enlivened with colour, inscriptions and beautiful things.' Country Life, 2023.

Gifford Bank (EH41 4JE) is a Georgian house set in four acres on the edge of the village. Lawns to the front and side of the house are edged by woodland whilst a walled garden provides a more formal area; this includes a circular lawn, raised beds for soft fruit, a herb and rose garden and an orchard. There are large herbaceous borders and scented climbing roses. The garden to the rear of the house includes water features and a large, fire bowl planter.

Directions: Gifford sits between the A1 and the A68 roads about five miles south of Haddington. The village is well signposted from Haddington, Pencaitland and Duns. When leaving Gifford on the B6355 Edinburgh Road, Gifford Bank is the last property on the right before the de-restriction signs. The drive into Broadwoodside is opposite the Golf Course.

Admission: £10.00, children free

Charities: Gifford Horticultural Society 60%

Struanbridge

Essich Road, Inverness IV2 6AH
Marcus and Catriona Jenks

Saturday 28 June, Saturday 26 July, Saturday 30 August & Saturday 27 September, 12pm - 5pm (2025)

47

E:mjenks@greenx.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Mikeysline 60%

Lindisfarne

Knockando AB38 7RY
Sally Mackenzie

Saturday 28 June, 12pm - 4pm (2025)

2c67

Sally started transforming her wildlife-friendly garden in 2008 with a native-species hedge. She has since added a pond and rain garden system fed by roof run-off; it's brilliant to see birds coming down to drink and the variety of invertebrates and amphibians living in it. A self-sustaining wildflower meadow grows in size every year, left to set seed, providing seeds for the large flock of house and tree sparrows. The latest addition is a green roof on the woodshed, which should be bursting with colour in July. Fruit trees, bushes and a variety of veggies are dotted throughout the garden, the architectural kale plants providing a fantastic contrast with purple poppies and evening primrose.

Directions: Follow signs for Cardhu Distillery but continue on the single track road past the distillery and round to the left following signs towards Knockando Church and Primary School. We are the last bungalow before the school and there is parking close by.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Beaver Trust 60%

Portmore

Eddleston EH45 8QU
Mr and Mrs David Reid

Saturday 28 June, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

0c45d7

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: Abundant Borders (SCIO) 60%

Morebattle Mains

Morebattle, Kelso TD5 8QU
Catherine Henderson and Helen Kemp & Paul Grime

Saturday/Sunday, 28/29 June, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

24679

T:01573440378 (Catherine) E:helen.kemp@mac.com; cath.henderson1957@gmail.com

The Granary (Catherine Henderson): An acre in size, laid out over last few years and now beginning to mature, with an outstanding view of the Borders hills and countryside. Differing heights of stone terraces give structure. There are many trees, shrubs and diverse range of perennial herbaceous plants plus various collections of non flowering plants, including grasses, pinus, cornus and picea, giving an extensive range of colour, textures and foliage.

The Steading (Helen Kemp & Paul Grime): A wildlife friendly garden, run with permaculture principals, with distinct areas featuring herbaceous borders, ponds, meadow and wildflowers, vegetable garden and orchard, glasshouses and polytunnel. We started here in 2005, with only six mature trees in place.

Directions: The Steading is half a mile from Morebattle Village centre. Take the road opposite the community shop (Mainsfield Avenue). We are the first house on the right hand side. Morebattle can be reached by the number 81 bus from Kelso (not Sundays).

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 60%

Tyninghame House and The Walled Garden

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

Sunday 29 June, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

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

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

Champion Trees: Two British and seven Scottish

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Lynton Day Centre 60%

Southwick House

Southwick DG2 8AH
Mr and Mrs R H L Thomas

Sunday 29 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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%

Whitehouse & Grange Bowling Club

18a Hope Terrace, Edinburgh EH9 2AR
Whitehouse & Grange Bowling Club

Sunday 29 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2467

E:wandgbc@icloud.com

W:www.wandgbc.com

The walled garden provides a backcloth for those bowling on the green or just sitting on the sidelines. The main feature is the Rose Garden, but we also plant trees to mark significant occasions such as the Club’s 150th anniversary in 2022. Last year, during our Garden Open Day, the Lord Provost planted a tree to mark Edinburgh 900. On 11 July, we planted a Rowan Tree to mark the exact time 100 years earlier that Eric Liddell won his gold medal at the 1924 Paris Olympics.

Directions: Heading south on Marchmont Road, cross over Strathearn Road onto Kilgraston Road, past the church on the left side and take the first turning on the right. Buses: 5, 9 and 24 to Beaufort Road stops.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: St.Columba’s Hospice Care 30% & The Eric Liddell Community 30%

Earlshall Castle

Leuchars KY16 0DP
Paul and Josine Veenhuijzen

Sunday 29 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

6d7

T:01334 839205

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Charity: Leuchars 60%

Kirkbrae House

Culross KY12 8JD
Sandra Bannister

Sunday 29 June, Sunday 20 July, Sunday 24 August & Sunday 21 September, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

12c467

E:Sandra.bannister18@gmail.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Pancreatic Cancer Scotland 30% & Perennial 30%

Wraes

Corseliehill Road, nr Houston PA6 7HU
Tim and Jo Mack

Sunday 29 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c7k

A varied seven acre rural garden with far reaching views and a variety of planting areas, designed to take advantage of the natural terrain and be actively wildlife friendly. Raised formal herbaceous beds, several wildlife ponds, burnside walks, grass maze, spring garden, woodland with rhododendron collection (100 species). For those interested in growing their own food, there is a large no-dig productive area, with vegetables, fruit cage, orchard and wildflower meadow. There are lots of seating places to relax and enjoy the tranquility while the kids tackle the maze or just have a good run around!

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Breast Cancer Now 60%

Dorward House

24 Dorward Road, Montrose DD10 8SB
The Trustees of Dorward House

Sunday 29 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

24579

The original house was built in 1839 and became a care home for the elderly in 1950. There have been many changes over the years including the addition of the garden pavilion. The gardens are maintained by the gardener/handyman with assistance from a private contractor and a few keen volunteers. Their hard work and dedication has certainly paid off with stunning herbaceous borders and colourful annuals. There is also a 'sensory garden' to the rear which is dedicated mainly for the vulnerable dementia residents. We hope you enjoy your visit.

Directions: Dorward House is on the corner of Dorward Rd and Warrack Terrace, and is adjacent to the Midlinks park and tennis courts.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Dorward House, Montrose 60%

Finzean House

Finzean, Banchory AB31 6NZ
Mr and Mrs Donald Farquharson

Sunday 29 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c57

Finzean House was the family home of Joseph Farquharson, the Victorian landscape painter, and the garden was the backdrop for several of his paintings. The garden has lovely views, over the historic holly hedge to the front, of Clachnaben. There is a spring woodland garden, extensive lawns with herbaceous and shrub borders and a working cut-flower garden for late summer, alongside a recently restored pond area. A new vegetable garden was created in 2020.

Directions: On the B976, South Deeside Road, between Banchory and Aboyne.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: The Forget-Me-Not Club 60%

Dougarie

Isle of Arran KA27 8EB
Mrs S C Gibbs

Tuesday 1 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

17

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%

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn

Wednesdays only 2 - 16 July, 1pm - 4pm. (2025)

7

T:01721 740220 E:rpthorburn@icloud.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Portmore

Eddleston EH45 8QU
Mr and Mrs David Reid

Wednesdays only 2 - 30 July, 1pm - 5pm. (2025)

0c45d7

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: Abundant Borders (SCIO) 60%

Bonhard House

Perth PH2 7PQ
Stephen and Charlotte Hay

Saturday/Sunday, 5/6 July, 10am - 4pm (2025)

67

T:07990 574570 E:stephenjohnhay@me.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Freedom from Fistula Foundation 60%

Papple Steading

Papple, Haddington EH41 4QD
George and Eri Mackintosh

Saturday/Sunday, 5/6 July, 11am - 4pm (2025)

067k

T:07941 157785 E:verity.sinclair@papple.com

W:www.papple.com

Papple Steading is a collection of rural farm buildings built in 1860 by AJ Balfour. The gardens (maintained using natural and environmentally friendly methods) have a developing herbaceous collection, lawns, a very productive organic fruit patch, large informal beds and a small herb area. The paddock has meandering paths cut through tall grasses and wildflowers. The adjoining Papple Wood is an ancient, largely deciduous woodland where a trail takes you past follies and sculptures set amongst native trees. A short walk from the Steading is Papana Wood and Wildflower Meadow, possibly the largest meadow of its kind in the county. The Papana Water flows alongside the meadow which was planted in 2020 with Scottish native wildflowers. In 2022 we planted a forest garden in the grounds; this is gradually becoming a wild foraging paradise!

Directions: From the A199 at East Linton, follow signs to Traprain and Whittingehame, signposted to Papple, 1.5 miles. What3words: formation:painted:honest

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Leuchie 60%

Ashbrook Nursery and Garden Centre

Forfar Road, Arbroath DD11 3RB
Anne Webster

Saturday 5 July, 12pm - 5pm (2025)

2c4579

T:01241 873408 E:anne@ashbrook.co.uk

W:www.ashbrook.co.uk

This family-run garden centre grows the majority of its plants, including over 2,000 varieties of bedding and patio plants, alpines, herbaceous perennials, ferns and grasses. There are also comprehensive A-Z displays of trees, conifers, shrubs, alpines and perennials.

The garden at Cabrach House - which is between the garden centre and the nursery - will also be open. This has colourful borders and patio, a wee orchard and fruit and vegetable areas.

Directions: Located on the outskirts of Arbroath, on the west side of the A933 opposite Condor Royal Marine Base.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

17 Strathallan Bank

Forgandenny, Perth PH2 9FE
Iain Mahon

Saturday 5 July & Saturday 12 July, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

24679

T:01738 813344 E:ijcmahon@gmail.com

About half an acre, the garden has been developed from scratch over 17 years. Plants include astilbes, scabious, astrantia, agapanthus, phlox, hydrangeas and primulas with an emphasis on flowers for cutting. A range of trees include a large Douglas fir, cornus, acers, jacquemontii silver birch and fruit trees.

Directions: From Bridge of Earn, follow signs to Forgandenny and go right through Forgandenny taking a turn to the left signposted Ardargie, Path of Condie etc. After 150 yards turn right into Strathallan Bank. There is an irregular bus service - number 17.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Maggie's 60%

The Gardens of Monimail Tower

Monimail Tower Project, by Letham KY15 7RJ
The Gardeners of Monimail Tower Project

Sunday 6 July, 10am - 4pm (2025)

2c67

T:07505 424905 E:monimailtower@posteo.uk

W:https://www.monimailtower.org

Monimail Tower gardens is situated in the Howe of Fife, a 19th century walled garden and orchard, built around a 15th century tower, the remains of Cardinal Beaton's summer palace. The garden has been an organic vegetable garden since 1985. We are now developing flower beds, but very much in a natural and wildlife friendly way. You will find peacefulness and tranquillity, but not the formality associated with walled gardens. It is a haven for invertebrates and birds. The garden hosts a site for allotments for local people and the woodlands and orchard are open to the general public all year round with a carpet of snowdrops, aconites, then followed by wild garlic in spring. The garden has a marvellous aspect sloping south, surrounded by ancient yew trees and an orchard. The tower is open to visitors and hosts a little museum. You can climb up to the roof and enjoy a beautiful view.

Directions: Monimail Tower Project is situated in Monimail, a hamlet on the road between Letham and Collessie

Admission: by donation

Charities: Monimail Tower Project Ltd 60%

Kierfiold House

Kierfiold House, Sandwick, Orkney KW16 3JE
Fiona and Euan Smith

Sunday 6 July & Sunday 20 July, 11am - 4:30pm (2025)

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A 150-year-old walled garden in Orkney’s West Mainland, which provides a unique micro climate against the windy, coastal conditions. The ‘gardens within gardens’ layout provides sheltered growing for hostas, irises, grasses and a collection of more than 120 species and hybrids of perennial geraniums. Organically gardened, the space is alive with birds, bees and butterflies. The garden has featured in the Scottish Field, Scotland on Sunday and Beechgrove. It is included in the books Island Gardens by Jackie Bennet, and Scotland for Gardeners by Ken Cox.

Directions: Located on the B9057, a quarter of a mile north of Skaill Loch.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Orkney Foodbank 60%

Hattamoa

Rendall, Orkney KW17 2HF
Caroline Macleod

Sunday 6 July, 12pm - 5pm (2025)

3c57

Set in an acre of land, we have been breaking through the weeds for around three years. Our garden has a mixture of flowers, vegetables, raised beds, wildlife and a pond. There are also a few mature shrubs, windbreak boundaries of willow and dog rose, two polytunnels, one of which houses fruit trees. A new hornbeam hedge and a gabion basket windbreaker wall. The garden is very much a work in progress.

Directions: Follow the A966 through Norsman Village, past Lyron and around the bend at Layburn and the first Hackland sign. Drive up the gentle rise until you come to the second Hackland Kirk sign pointing to the right. Directly opposite this take the left turn up a track and we are the first property, on the left. The tunnels are a sign you are in the right place.

Admission: by donation

Charities: The Clan Strachan Charitable Trust 60%

77 Kirk Brae

Edinburgh EH16 6JN
Michael Brown and Angela Casey

Sunday 6 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2457

E:mvbrown55@gmail.com

A south Edinburgh garden of roughly 1200 square metres surrounded by a stone wall. This family garden features a mix of mature and younger trees, herbaceous beds and borders, a vegetable patch, lawn, a 19th century cast iron vinery, an old monkey puzzle, pond and a patio. Since 2002 the garden has evolved from the traditional and formal to an informal, wildlife-friendly garden with a wide variety of plants, trees and shrubs. The planting aims for year-round colour and variety with fruit, vegetables and different areas for just sitting and enjoying. Still on its journey and a work in progress, the newest initiative is to turn some of the lawn into a small wildflower meadow. All inputs are peat-free and as organic as possible.

Directions: 77 Kirk Brae is towards the top of the hill on the left hand side, the number 77 is clearly marked on the main and side gates. Parking is on Kirk Brae or in the quieter Wolrige Road nearby. The 31 bus stops close to the property in each direction at the Kirk Park stop.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: SupportED - The Community Eating Disorder Charity 60%

Haugh Garden

College of Roseisle IV30 5YE
Gwynne and David Hetherington

Sunday 6 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c67

T:01343 835790 E:davidhetherington26@gmail.com

A lovely two-acre garden to relax in with continuing developments to enjoy. Wander through woodlands 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% & WWF-UK 30%

Amat

Amat Lodge, Ardgay IV24 3BS
Jonny and Sara Shaw

Saturday/Sunday, 12/13 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

36e7

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

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & Marie Curie 30%

The Bield at Blackruthven

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

Saturday 12 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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 a wheelchair-friendly labyrinth. Traditional walled garden with richly-stocked borders and lawns, cut-flower garden, healing garden, glasshouse, trained fruit trees and organic veg plot. Walk through extensive woodland and visit the old curling pond. New in the grounds this year is a little Japanese Garden. Southton Smallholding is a social enterprise ten minutes walk away, featuring veg 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 crossroads to Madderty/Tibbermore. Entrance on left after ½ mile passing the gate lodge on your right. Parking signed to right at the steading.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Ripple Effect 60%

Carolside

Earlston TD4 6AL
Mr and Mrs Anthony Foyle

Sunday 13 July, 11am - 5pm (2025)

45a7

T:01896 849272 E:info@carolside.com

W:www.carolside.com

A traditional and romantic garden set in a beautiful 18th-century landscape. This garden is best known for its historically important collection of roses, with a national collection of pre-19th century Gallica roses and for its design of garden rooms with soft delicate herbaceous planting. Visit the oval walled garden, spilling with roses and billowing herbaceous borders, the herb garden with yellow and white roses set against acid green herbs or sit in the secret garden, planted in silver and pale pink. Walk to the apple orchard of historic apple trees and wild flowers or through the rose gates to the 18th century bridge and into the park and sit by the river. Carolside is said to be 'one of Scotlands finest private gardens'.
National Plant Collection: Pre-19th century Rosa Gallica

Directions: One mile north of Earlston on the A68. Entrance faces south. Garden accessible by Borders Bus 51, ask to get off at Carolside gate.

Admission: £8.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie 60%

Dalbeattie Community Allotments Association

Port Road, Dalbeattie DG5 4AZ
Dalbeattie Community Allotments Association

Sunday 13 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

067

E:dcaa74@hotmail.com

Dalbeattie Community Allotments Association was formed in 2008 and the site was officially opened in August 2010. A local landowner has leased the land for 25 years at £1 per year, initially providing for 47 plots. The initial results were so successful that the area is now increased to provide for 81 productive plots where local residents can grow their own fruit, vegetables and flowers. Come and enjoy a stroll around the site, chat to members or relax in one of the community areas with a cup of tea. Information will be available and photos of the development of the site will be on display.

Directions: The allotment site can be found on the Dalbeattie bypass (A710) next to Craignair Health Centre. what3words: cloud.eased.reward

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Dalbeattie Community Initiative 60%

SWG3 Community Garden

100 Eastvale Place, Glasgow G3 8QG
Jeremy Needham, Head Gardener

Sunday 13 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c8467

Situated behind the main SWG3 warehouse building, it’s a surprise to walk up the steps leading to this space and be delighted by the sight of trees, grasses, shrubs and perennials making a beautiful garden where there was once only derelict land between two railway lines. The garden has wide paths curving through the beds and the various indigenous trees subtly define the shape of the garden. Apart from the interesting planting, this garden, which was designed by the horticulturist and garden designer Jeremy Needham, has beehives and two different heights of raised beds which are used by the local community as allotments. To celebrate Glasgow SGS 2025 Year of Children in The Garden there will be lots of children's events.

Directions: The nearest station to SWG3 in Glasgow is Kelvinhall SPT Subway Station, Partick, which is a 14 minute walk away. Free parking is available on Eastvale Place and Kelvinhaugh Street on Saturdays and Sundays.

Admission: £8.00, children £2.00

Charities: Studio Warehouse 60%

Douneside House

Tarland AB34 4UD
The MacRobert Trust

Sunday 13 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c867k

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%

Amisfield Walled Garden

Haddington EH41 3TE
Amisfield Preservation Trust

Saturday(10am - 3pm)/Sunday(11am - 3pm), 19/20 July (2025)

2857

W:www.amisfield.org.uk

A large, 18th-century walled garden, abandoned for many years until the early 2000s and since transformed by volunteers. The garden, which is eight acres in size, is completely enclosed by 16 foot-high walls of dressed stone. Each corner features an elegant stone pavilion. Over the years, herbaceous borders, vegetable plots and fruit trees have been planted. A hornbeam walk, maze, sensory gardens, potager and woodland area have been added. The mixed fruit orchards and apple espaliers are home to over 40 varieties of apples. Willow and Cornus beds surround the Winter Garden. A wildflower meadow and pond have been introduced as a further step in our biodiversity plan. This is a garden of interest and joy all year round.

Directions: Take the A199 from Haddington; turn south one mile east of Haddington at Stevenson/Hailes Castle junction - brown Amisfield Walled Garden sign. Turn right just after the bridge over River Tyne. Parking available.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Amisfield Preservation Trust 60%

Kinnordy Walled Garden

Kinnordy House, Kirriemuir, Angus DD8 5ER
Mary Gifford

Saturday 19 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2579

W:Kinnordy.com

Kinnordy Walled Garden is an oblique shape of about two acres with a listed observatory and potting shed. It has been developed in the last ten years from a site for rearing pheasants to an attractive garden including one of the Scottish tea gardens, a wild area where a pair of oyster catchers lay eggs each year, and a vegetable area.

The opening includes a visit to The Sustainable Kirriemuir Field which is a short walk away. This project, started in 2024, is developing an area to grow food for the community. Sustainable Kirriemuir is an environmental charity with a vision for Kirriemuir to be a sustainable, net-zero community where people and nature flourish.

Directions: At the Kirriemuir north west junction of the B995 and the B956 take the turn away from Kirriemuir towards Cortachy, then take the first left onto the estate, and continue to the Estate Office.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Sustainable Kirriemuir 60%

Kailzie Gardens

Peebles EH45 9HT
Susan and Steve Plag

Sunday 20 July, 10am - 4pm (2025)

3c6ed7

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%

Duns Open Gardens

Volunteer Hall, Langtongate, Duns TD11 3AF
The Gardeners of Duns

Sunday 20 July, 12pm - 5pm (2025)

267k

The former county town of Duns retains a thriving market square and is home to an award-winning museum dedicated to Formula 1 Champion, Jim Clark OBE. There are extensive green areas in and around the town offering delightful walks all year round. After three hugely successful years of opening our gardens we had a break in 2024 but have decided to open again in a different month, July, to show the huge variety of our gardens. They are lovingly tended by keen gardeners, happy to share them with fellow enthusiasts. They offer a wonderful variety of size, layout and planting, ensuring that there is something for everyone, from small courtyards to extensive shrub areas, vegetable gardens, pond areas and magnificent lawns. Come and enjoy spending the day in Duns, visiting the beautiful gardens and exchanging ideas.

Directions: Situated on the crossroads of the A6112 and A6105, about 14 miles west of Berwick upon Tweed, easily accessible from the A1 onto the A6112 or from the A68/A697 onto the A6105.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: AHFD 60%

Wester Craigfoodie

Dairsie KY15 4RU
Mr & Mrs Robert Murray Brown and Mrs Joan Gilbert

Sunday 20 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c479

Wester Craigfoodie shelters beneath Craiglug. Elevation gives the house and gardens their wonderful views, tranquillity and informal charm. The organic no dig walled garden, attached to the B listed house, is arranged in wind resistant 'rooms' planted with perennials, shrubs and fruit trees. Views to the sea, St Andrews and its Links await visitors at the top. To the front lie the curved rose wall and inscription stone. From here, under the giant Douglas Fir, views stretch across the Eden Valley towards Kemback Wood. To the west is the new (2023) prairie garden, views to the south, polytunnel and gate to Ruthven Cottage's new (2024) garden. Bees are abundant with a hive overlooking the pond. Beds of bee-friendly perennials, specimen trees and shrubs frame the views. A gate opens onto the hills beyond via the old drovers' track.

Directions: From Dairsie main street on A91, the Cupar end, turn down past the Primary School (opposite village hall). Pass the school and bear right past line of three cottages. Stay on tarmac (not to Fingask) and then bear left up hill to Craigfoodie House. Stay left at top and follow signs. W3W - ///playoffs.huddled.alike Ten minute walk from bus stop by the school.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Guide Dogs 60%

Airlie Castle Gardens

Airlie Castle, Airlie, By Kirriemuir, Angus DD8 5NG
David and Tarka Airlie

Sunday 20 July, 2pm - 6pm (2025)

2c7k9

T:01575 530387 E:office@airlieestates.com

W:www.airlieestates.com

Airlie was built in the 15th century as a fortified castle. It sits on a promontory high above the Rivers Melgum and Isla. The gorge below is a Site of Special Scientific Interest because it contains rare lichen and wildflowers. The 18th-century walled garden grows fruit, flowers and vegetables and it is intersected by mature yew and box topiary. Within the Castle walls itself, there are two herbaceous borders and a large Kiftsgate rose and climbing wisteria. In large areas of the policies the grass has been left to grow long, and as a consequence of this many varieties of native wild orchid have reappeared. A woodland walk leads down from the Castle and gardens to the River Isla.

Directions: Take the B951 from Kirriemuir signposted Glen Isla. Pass Kinnordy Loch and then turn left signposted Airlie and Alyth. Keep on for three-and-a half-miles, pass Mains of Airlie farm on left. Entrance to castle is just beyond on the right.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: MBA: Mountain Bothies Association 60%

Earth House Apothecary Gardens

Pityoulish House, Pityoulish PH22 1RD
Dianne Dain and Salem Avan

Saturday 26 July, 10am - 7pm (2025)

067k9

E:contact@ph-22.com

W:earthhousescotland.com/Instagram @earth_house_scotland

Beautiful wildflowers and trees surround an ancient site with a restored fishing lodge looking over the Spey. The garden consists of a beautiful, mixed woodland with standing stones, Labyrinth and a beech hedge tunnel. Recent developments include wildflower meadows, heritage fruit orchard and a courtyard herb garden including culinary and medicinal herbs. Apothecary will also be open for viewing. Plans designed by Jo Mackenzie.

Directions: Turn into Pityoulish estate drive and head up the middle drive. Limited parking available in front of the house, additional parking lot across the street from entrance drive.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Maggie's 60%

16 Mulla

Voe, Shetland ZE2 9XQ
Linda Richardson

Saturday/Sunday, 26/27 July, 10:30am - 4:30pm (2025)

47

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

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: RSPB: for projects in Shetland 60%

Skelbo House

Skelbo, Dornoch IV25 3QG
Alison Bartlett

Saturday/Sunday, 26/27 July, 11am - 4pm (2025)

c7

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: £7.00, children free

Charities: Mary's Meals 60%

Milton of Finavon House

Forfar DD8 3PY

Saturday 26 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

0c857

E:enquiries@miltonoffinavonhouse.co.uk

W:miltonoffinavonhouse.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

15 Fairfield Road

Broughty Ferry, Dundee DD5 1NX
Aileen Scoular

Sunday 27 July, 12pm - 5pm (2025)

0c4679

E:aileen.scoular@me.com

This sunny, contemporary garden contains many mature trees and shrubs, plus lots of recently planted beds and borders. A shady courtyard contains Japanese acers and spring-flowering bulbs, while colourful perennial planting near the house attracts pollinating insects. A new productive area, with raised beds and a greenhouse, is used to grow fruit and veg, plus dahlias and annual cut flowers. The garden is being developed in a sustainable way, where possible – no herbicides or pesticides are used; rainwater is harvested; and the stone used in the landscaping was found in the garden and re-purposed. The garden has a prolific bird and insect population, despite being in an urban location.

Directions: Fairfield Road is easily reached by car, via Dundee Road (A930) or Arbroath Road (A92); by bus - services 73 and 5 both stop on Strathern Road, a two-minute walk away; and by train - Broughty Ferry train station is a 15-20 minute walk. On street parking available.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: RNLI 50%

Langwell

Berriedale KW7 6HD
Welbeck Estates

Sunday 27 July, noon - 4pm (2025)

67

T:01593 751278 / 751237 E:caithness@welbeck.co.uk

A beautiful and spectacular old walled garden with outstanding borders situated in the secluded Langwell Strath. Charming wooded access drive with a chance to see deer.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: RNLI 60%

Tomandroighne

Edradynate, Aberfeldy PH15 2JS
Ruth Howell

Tuesday 29 July, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

27

Tomandroighne is a garden of just under two acres located on a steep bank overlooking the River Tay. Quirky sculptures, stonework and salvaged items add interest as this challenging site is gradually improved. The garden hosts a collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, flowering in sequence late spring and early summer. A spring-fed water garden is home to many bog-loving plants including gunnera, rodgersia, candelabra primulas and ligularia. Herbaceous planting and flowering trees and shrubs give colour and texture all summer and autumn. There are many quiet areas for peaceful contemplation.

Directions: Coming from the A9, take the Ballinluig exit heading for Aberfeldy. At Grandtully turn right, crossing the River Tay via the metal bridge to Strathtay. From there turn left, following the signs to Cluny House Gardens for about three miles alongside the river. At the turning to Cluny House Gardens, turn right and then immediately left up a short steep drive. Tomandroighne is the white house at the top of the steep bank. Please note the SatNav map location is not correct, we are about ¼ mile east of the location given, at the bottom of the road up to Cluny House Gardens.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: The Aberfeldy Dementia-Friendly Collaborative 60%

Amulree

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

Saturday/Sunday, 2/3 August, 10am - 4pm. Groups also welcome at other times by prior arrangement. (2025)

c4a7

T:07899 092070 E:gabygardeners@btinternet.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Kirkmaiden Old Kirk 60%

Silverburn Village

23 Biggar Road, Silverburn EH26 9LJ
The Gardeners of Silverburn Village

Saturday 2 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c8467

A variety of village gardens all surviving at 800 feet and the now well established arboretum and wild flower trail. Enjoy the lovely Pentland Hill views and the Beechgrove Garden around the Hall. Visit the Plant stall with specialist plants and lots for new gardeners and children.

Directions: Parking available. Disabled access. Buses: Houston 101/102 Edinburgh-Dumfries route. On the A702 ten miles from Edinburgh city centre, six miles from the city bypass and two miles from Penicuik via Hopelands Road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Mary's Meals 60%

2 Durnamuck

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QZ
Will Soos and Susan Pomeroy

Sunday 3 August, 11am - 4pm (2025)

2c7k

T:07789 390028 E:sueandwill@icloud.com

W:2Durnamuckgarden.com. You can also find us on Facebook.

Our garden is south-east facing on the edge of Little Loch Broom. It is a coastal plantsman's garden with a rich mix of herbaceous borders, trees and shrubs, vegetables, drystone wall planting. South African/Mediterranean plants, a wild meadow and stunning views. Many of the plants have been collected from all over the world, and growing them has provided obvious challenges but with a pleasing outcome. Featured in 2019 entries in Gardens Illustrated, Homes & Gardens and Beechgrove. Entry in the English Garden magazine in September 2020.

Directions: On the A832, between Dundonnell and Ullapool, take the turning along the single-track road signed Badcaul, continue to the egg shack, turn right, go to the bottom of the hill and 2 Durnamuck is the house with the red roof. There is parking down by the house if needed.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Sandpiper Trust 60%

Hattamoa

Rendall, Orkney KW17 2HF
Caroline Macleod

Sunday 3 August, 12pm - 5pm (2025)

3c57

Set in an acre of land, we have been breaking through the weeds for around three years. Our garden has a mixture of flowers, vegetables, raised beds, wildlife and a pond. There are also a few mature shrubs, windbreak boundaries of willow and dog rose, two polytunnels, one of which houses fruit trees. A new hornbeam hedge and a gabion basket windbreaker wall. The garden is very much a work in progress.

Directions: Follow the A966 through Norsman Village, past Lyron and around the bend at Layburn and the first Hackland sign. Drive up the gentle rise until you come to the second Hackland Kirk sign pointing to the right. Directly opposite this take the left turn up a track and we are the first property, on the left. The tunnels are a sign you are in the right place.

Admission: by donation

Charities: The Clan Strachan Charitable Trust 60%

Naturally Useful, Marcassie Farm

Rafford, Forres IV36 2RH
Karen Collins

Sunday 3 August, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

67

T:01309 675052 E:karen@naturallyuseful.co.uk

W:naturallyuseful.co.uk/

We grow willow, grasses for fibre, plants for dyeing and flowers for printing. We harvest and, by hand, transform these raw materials into something beautiful and useful.

Directions: If using SatNav, only use the address Marcassie Farm (the postcode sends you to the castle). The willow field is on the right of the track just over the bridge.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Quarriers: Willow Field Health and Wellbeing Project 60%

Drummond Castle Gardens

Muthill, Crieff PH7 4HN
Grimsthorpe & Drummond Castle Trust Ltd

Sunday 3 August, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

2857

T:01764 681433

W:www.drummondcastlegardens.co.uk

Activities and events for a great family day out. The gardens of Drummond Castle were originally laid out in 1630 by John Drummond, second Earl of Perth. In 1830 the parterre was changed to an Italian style. One of the most interesting features is the multi-faceted sundial designed by John Mylne, Master Mason to Charles I. The formal garden is said to be one of the finest in Europe and is the largest of its type in Scotland.

Directions: Entrance two miles south of Crieff on Muthill road (A822).

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

Charities: BLESMA 60%

Larch House

Clerklands, Near Lilliesleaf TD6 9JR
David and Julia King

6 - 27 August (Wednesdays only) 11am - 4pm. Pre-booking is required on these days due to limited parking. Also open by arrangement 1 July - 31 August. Admission £5.00, children free. (2025)

37

T:01835 870888 E:northcorner14@btinternet.com

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 towards Lilliesleaf and the house will be clearly signed. Car parking is on site.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Portmore

Eddleston EH45 8QU
Mr and Mrs David Reid

Wednesdays only 6 - 27 August, 1pm - 4pm. (2025)

0c45d7

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: Abundant Borders (SCIO) 60%

The Gardens at Archerfield Walled Garden

Archerfield Estate, Dirleton, North Berwick, East Lothian EH39 5HQ
Kerry Lyall, Head Gardener

Saturday 9 August, 11am - 5pm (2025)

3c8457

W:www.archerfieldwalledgarden.com

Our gardens comprise a series of themed spaces designed for year-round interest. Explore our perennial meadow with swaying grasses and fruit trees. See incredible edibles in the potager; a productive polytunnel complete with grapevine; colourful cutting gardens and a wildlife area with willow tunnels, stumpery and pond. Our light and dark borders brim with monochrome and textural plants and our new water-saving garden features drought tolerant species in shades of blue, rust and orange. Visit the potting shed, where our artist-in-residence creates beautiful botanical casts and take wee ones on a minibeast trail. Come wander, sit and enjoy. There is so much to see!

Directions: By bus East Coast Buses no 124 from Edinburgh. Bus stops (2nd stop) after Gullane, at entrance to Archerfield Estate then a 10 min walk to Archerfield Walled Garden. By car via the A198 East Lothian coast road, turn in to Archerfield Estate, one minute drive to car park at Archerfield Walled Garden. Or refer to our website.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Stepping Out Project 60%

Cotton of Craig

Kilry, Blairgowrie PH11 8HW
Nick Joy and Nici Rymer

Saturday/Sunday, 9/10 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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An old walled garden, partially under redesign, with fruit house containing espaliered peach, apricot and cherry trees, herbaceous borders, vegetable garden, greenhouse and specimen trees and shrubs. A robot mower keeps the grass in order. There is also a waterfall walk to explore.

Directions: From Perth take the A94 to Coupar Angus and just before Meigle take the B954 and follow signs to Glen Isla for approximately four miles until you see the Garden Open signs on the right, where there is a left turn signposted Kilry. From Dundee take the A923 to Muirhead then the B954 to Meigle, turn right up B954 and follow signs as above. Limited parking on the road and up the drive.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: RNLI 60%

Cloan

by Auchterarder PH3 1PP
Neil Mitchison

Sunday 10 August, 10am - 5pm (2025)

267

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

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

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

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Tiphereth Limited: Camphill Scotland 60%

Braehead Community Garden

Broom Road, Braehead FK7 7GU
Nikki Thomas, Development Officer

Sunday 10 August, 11am - 4pm (2025)

2c57

E:garden@braehead.org

Braehead Community Garden is an 11,000 square metre outdoor space, enjoying a direct view of Stirling Castle. Dedicated to fostering a vibrant, connected community that thrives with healthy and happy residents, we encourage people to grow their own produce and we sell our own home grown crops back to the community at an affordable price. At the heart of our mission is the belief that physical and mental well-being are intricately tied to the environment and socio-economic circumstances we live in and how better than to combine locally-grown food with the fun and exercise that comes with being a member of a garden! Our garden is an essential local hub for social interaction, exercise, and a sense of pride and belonging within our diverse membership. We offer an array of activities and facilities, including 126 micro allotments for hire, a communal toolshed, an apiary producing local honey, a large polytunnel for social events, a maintenance workshop, a clubhouse, and free-range eggs from our resident chickens. Volunteering opportunities abound, including composting, maintenance, growing team (market garden) and looking after our hens and bees. From gardening to crafts, we offer advice, support and produce sales. Garden members can also benefit from peer mentoring and external training to enhance skills, knowledge, and confidence.

We have a multitude of nectar beds and wild spaces, ensuring we are giving back to our environment and supporting and encouraging local wildlife. Our extensive rain water harvesting system keeps the garden running whilst reducing our carbon footprint. Come along and experience our special place in the centre of historic Stirling - we have amazing views, lovely plants, flowers and wonderful cakes and chat!

Directions: From north on the A9 towards Bannockburn, take the first exit on Linden Avenue leading to Broom Road, turn right and the gardens are on the left. From south, on the A91 turn left on Pike Road leading to Broom Road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Braehead, Broomridge & District Community Development Trust 60%

Dalswinton Mill

Dalswinton DG2 0XY
Colin and Pamela Crosbie

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

3c7

T:01387 740070 E:colincrosbiehort@btinternet.com

A newly-created, plantsman’s garden set around an 18th-century watermill with the Pennyland Burn running through it. The garden contains a wide range of perennials, trees and shrubs that favour the local climate and have been planted during the last few years. A variety of statuary can be found throughout the garden which sits in a hollow and can be only accessed by steps and there are slopes throughout the garden. Unfortunately, this makes the garden unsuitable for anyone with mobility requirements.

Directions: Garden lies in Dalswinton, halfway between the A76 and the A701 on the Auldgirth to Kirkton Road. From Auldgirth take the first left after the Dalswinton Village Hall. The Mill is on the corner before the bridge. We are unable to offer disabled parking.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Loch Arthur 60%

North Newton Farm

Kilmacolm PA13 4TE
Carole Cameron

Sunday 10 August, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

2c67

E:carole.cameron100@btinternet.com

In six years, the new owners have transformed North Newton Farm garden. 'No straight lines' and 'any colour so long as it is pink, purple, blue or white' are the guidelines. Many 'finds' abandoned by the previous owners in and around the barns have been repurposed under the 'let's use what we have' philosophy. To suit the topography, the garden now has cultivated and wilder parts with stunning views. Many climbing plants and herbaceous borders surround the wildlife pond below a rockery. A small wooded area provides a lovely view. A Victorian style greenhouse and cold frames flank stone-built raised beds in a fruit and vegetable garden. The resident goats, chickens and donkeys provide ample fertiliser.

Directions: Take the B786 Lochwinnoch road out of Kilmacolm and continue for approximately two miles. From Lochwinnoch take the B786 Kilmacolm road for approximately six miles. Turn up the road signposted to Killochries at this point following the yellow SGS signs.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Pancreatic Cancer Action 60%

Stobwood Cottage Garden

Stobwood Cottage, Stobwood, Forth, South Lanarkshire ML11 8ET
Jamie and Kayleigh Robertson

Saturday/Sunday, 16/17 August, 1pm - 5pm (2025)

2c57

T:07885701642 E:jamierobertson04@hotmail.co.uk

A four-times winner of West Lothian Gardener of the year, Jamie invites you to Stobwood Cottage. In just four years he has established a hugely impressive garden in the South Lanarkshire countryside. Just shy of half an acre, colour dominates this garden. Wide herbaceous borders surround a velvet lawn. Stunning hanging baskets and tubs clothe the front of the cottage and are dotted around elsewhere. There is also a feature pond with a bridge, a cacti house, a polytunnel growing corn, pumpkins and squashes plus there is a productive vegetable plot to explore. A must for those less-experienced gardeners, and a delight for those who have a little more knowledge.

Directions: Travelling from the South, 1.5 miles north of Braehead on the B7016. From the North, turn off the A706 onto the B7016 at Wilsontown.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Braehead Village Trust 60%

Bannockburn House Gardens

Stirling FK7 8EY
Bannockburn House Trust

Sunday 17 August, 10am - 4pm (2025)

2c67

T:07980284027 E:gardens@bannockburnhouse.scot

W:www.bannockburnhouse.scot

Bannockburn House, an A-listed mansion built in 1675 by Sir Hugh Paterson, now sits in 26 acres of woodland and gardens. Bonnie Prince Charlie visited in 1746 where he met Clementina Walkinshaw who would become his mistress. Local boy, John McLaren, creator of The Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, began his gardening career here in 1860. The house and gardens suffered from 50 years of neglect before coming into community ownership in 2017 with restoration ongoing. Features include an enclosed kitchen garden supplying fruit and vegetables to two local food banks; herb gardens, an orchard, fruit cages, pollinator garden, wisteria border, labyrinth, polytunnels and raised beds. A short woodland walk passes 'The Five Sisters' - our fabulous giant redwood trees; the Fountain Walk passes our veteran lime trees, a cast-iron fountain (built by Steven in 1888 ), and our award-winning apiary. On 17th August, short tours of the house will also be available - they must be booked online in advance through the Bannockburn House website. The gardens can be viewed by arrangement through July to end September.

Directions: The house entrance is 0.2 miles from the Bannockburn Interchange (M9/Junction 9 roundabout) off the A91.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Bannockburn House Trust 60%

Glensaugh

Glensaugh Lodge, Fettercairn, Laurencekirk AB30 1HB
Donald and Sue Barrie

Sunday 17 August, 1:30pm - 4:30pm (2025)

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The twenty-year development of the hillside garden at Glensaugh, with its fine outlook over the Howe of the Mearns, continues as lawn evolves into wildflower meadow and borders are replanted. Trees, species rhododendrons and other shrubs provide year-round interest while herbaceous planting extends colour into the autumn. Yew hedges and well-placed natural stone give structure in the lower garden where a productive kitchen garden and polytunnel exist alongside informal borders and a sunken pond.

Directions: Three miles north of Fettercairn on the B974, turn right at the Clatterin Brig and follow minor road signed Glensaugh for ½ mile, then turn right into the Glensaugh farm steading (parking) and follow beech avenue from the steading to Glensaugh Lodge.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Kincardine And Deeside Befriending 60%

Kirklands

Saline KY12 9TS
Peter and Gill Hart

Sunday 17 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c467

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

W:www.kirklandsgarden.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Saline & Steelend Gardening Club 60%

Dundonnell House

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QW
Dundonnell Estates

Thursday 21 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

6e7

T:07789 390028 E:sueandwill@icloud.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

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

Quercus Garden Plants

Whitmuir Farm, West Linton EH46 7BB
Rona Dodds

Sunday 24 August, 10am - 5pm (2025)

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T:01968 660708 E:quercusgardenplants@gmail.com

W:www.quercusgardenplants.co.uk

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Breast Cancer Now 60%

Old Melrose

near Melrose TD6 9DF
William and Frankie Younger

Sunday 24 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

247k9

T:07811 389551 E:frankie.younger@btinternet.com

W:www.oldmelrose.co.uk

The charm of Old Melrose lies in its idyllic setting - a woodland peninsula surrounded on three sides by the River Tweed, the site that St Aidan chose to build a monastery in 640AD. With a wonderful array of plants, trees and wildlife, come and explore this conservation focused estate and connect with nature in its beautiful surroundings. A one-mile signed walk will be laid out through the private grounds taking in stunning viewpoints, wonderful mature specimen trees, riverside trails and a view of the 19th century summer house standing high above the river. Stop to contemplate on the spot where a chapel once stood dedicated to St Cuthbert. Finish in the Victorian walled garden where teas will be available. The garden features three distinct areas: a small orchard with bee hives, perennial wildflower planting and fruit, vegetable and flower beds. Be sure to say hello to the friendly Boer goats, the rare breed pigs and the free roaming chickens.

Directions: On the A68 between Melrose and St Boswells

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Royal Highland Education Trust 60%

Diadan

Madrissa Farm, Lamancha EH46 7BD
Vicki Masters

Sunday 24 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

2c679

Nestled in the corner of a sheep farm, this three-quarter acre garden has been steadily evolving since 2020. Formerly a derelict plot, it now features beautiful hard landscaping built from local stone, bounded by a new high stone wall with portholes which complement the wall of the old barn next door. The wide herbaceous border and long rockery at the front are planted for seasonal interest and provide a colourful entrance, whilst the rear has a more natural design with two large adjoining ponds, some tree planting, a willow tunnel and winding paths through a meadow … and for those with keen eyes, the occasional piece of sculpture awaits discovery.

Directions: On the A701 on left hand side coming from Edinburgh, about half a mile before Lamancha Hub.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Omaleshe Projects Trust 60%

3 Millhall

Shore Road, Kirkcudbright DG6 4TQ
Mr Alan Shamash

Sunday 31 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

7

T:01557 870352 E:shamash@freeuk.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer's Research UK 60%

Greenhead Farmhouse

Greenhead of Arnot, Leslie KY6 3JQ
Malcolm and Maggie Strang Steel

Friday 5 September, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

12c8467

T:01592 840459

Greenhead is a medium-sized garden with beautiful borders which have a backbone of perennial shrubs among herbaceous planting, plus a scattering of annuals which provide on-going interest. September is one of the best months to visit this garden.

Directions: A911 between Auchmuirbridge and Scotlandwell.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: SSAFA Forces Help: SSAFA Kinross Branch 60%

Corbet Tower

Morebattle, near Kelso TD5 8AQ
Bridget Fraser

Saturday 6 September, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

067

E:bridgetafraser@yahoo.co.uk

Charming Scottish Victorian garden set in parklands in the foothills of the Cheviots. This well-established garden includes a traditional walled kitchen garden, well stocked with fruit, vegetables and cutting flowers, including dahlias, gladioli and annuals. There is also a formal box parterre rose garden with old-fashioned early roses, long borders and terraced lawns around the Victorian house and medieval peel tower. The gardens are approached via an attractive woodland walk with lime avenue.

Directions: Off the A698 from Kelso and the A68 north of Jedburgh. At Kalemouth follow the B6401 to Morebattle, then the road marked Hownam to Corbet Tower.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Cheviot Churches: Church of Scotland 60%

Fairnielaw

Athelstaneford, North Berwick EH39 5BE
Alison Johnston

Sunday 7 September, 11am - 4pm (2025)

467

T:07747 862841 E:alison@fairnielawhouse.co.uk

Fairnielaw is a two-and-a-half-acre garden set on a rocky ridge where the wind blows frequently through the Garleton Hills and hits us side on. To provide shelter we planted a mixed-tree, mini forest and created a series of ‘rooms’ enclosed by beech hedges and dry-stone walls. The garden is on several levels and is a mixture of both formal and wild areas with beautiful views towards Traprain Law and the Garleton Hills at the highest point.

Directions: Fairnielaw House is in the village of Athelstaneford set back from the road behind tall trees opposite the church. It is served by a bus service that runs between Haddington and North Berwick several times a day.

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Trellis 60%

Benmore Botanic Garden

Benmore, Dunoon PA23 8QU
A Regional Garden of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

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

46ead7

T:01369 706261 E:benmore@rbge.org.uk

W:www.rbge.org.uk

Benmore’s magnificent mountainside setting is a joy to behold. Its 120 acres boast a world-famous collection of plants from the Himalayas, China and Japan to North and South America, as well as an impressive avenue of giant redwoods, one of the finest entrances to any botanic garden. Established in 1863, these majestic giants stand over 150 feet high. Seven miles of trails throughout lead to a restored Victorian Fernery and a dramatic viewpoint at 420 feet looking out to surrounding mountains and Holy Loch. There are also traditional Bhutanese and Chilean pavilions and the magnificent Golden Gates. Keep an eye out for red squirrels and other wildlife as you explore the garden.
National Plant Collection: Abies, South American Temperate Conifers, Picea
Champion Trees: Many rare trees and giant conifers

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00056

Directions: Seven miles north of Dunoon or 22 miles south from Glen Kinglass below Rest and Be Thankful pass. On the A815. Bus service is limited.

Admission: by donation

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Mellerstain

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

Saturday 25 October 11am-5pm, admission £6, children free, light refreshments available outwith cafè opening. (2025)

3c67

T:01573 410225 E:enquiries@mellerstain.com

W:www.mellerstain.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Mellerstain Trust 60%

Oldtown of Leys Garden

Inverness IV2 6AE
David and Anne Sutherland

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

467

T:01463 238238 E:ams@oldtownofleys.com

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & Highland Hospice 30%

Burgie Arboretum

Between Forres and Elgin IV36 2QU
Hamish Lochore

Open daily, 8am - 5pm (2025)

b7

T:01343 850231 E:hamish@burgie.org

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

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

Admission: by donation

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

Glenapp Castle

Ballantrae, Girvan KA26 0NZ
Mr Paul Szkiler

Open daily, dawn - dusk (2025)

6ed7

T:01465 831212 E:info@glenappcastle.com

W:www.glenappcastle.com

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

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Angus's Garden, Barguillean

Taynuilt PA35 1HY
The Josephine Marshall Trust

Open daily, 9am - dusk (2025)

7k

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

W:www.barguillean.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: SSAFA Forces Help 60%

King's Park Walled Garden

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

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

45e7

E:contactus@friendsofkingsparkglasgow.co.uk

W:friendsofkingsparkglasgow.co.uk

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Ardmaddy Castle

by Oban PA34 4QY
Mr and Mrs Archie Struthers

Open daily, 9am - 6pm (2025)

c57k

T:01852 300353 E:minette@ardmaddy.com

W:www.ardmaddy.com

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Ardkinglas Woodland Garden

Cairndow PA26 8BG
Ardkinglas Estate

Open daily, dawn - dusk (2025)

6ed7k

T:01499 600261

W:www.ardkinglas.com

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

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Highland Liliums

10 Loaneckheim, Kiltarlity IV4 7JQ
Laura Evans

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

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

W:www.highlandliliums.co.uk

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Raasay Walled Garden

Isle of Raasay IV40 8PB
Raasay Community

Open daily, 9am - 7pm (2025)

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

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

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Cambo Gardens

Kingsbarns KY16 8QD
Trustees of Cambo Heritage Trust

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

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

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

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

Directions: A917 between Crail and St Andrews.

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

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Ardtornish

by Lochaline, Morvern PA80 5UZ
Mrs John Raven

Open daily, 10am - 6pm (2025)

867k

W:www.ardtornish.co.uk

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

Directions: Three miles from Lochaline along the A884.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Mellerstain

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

Open daily, 2pm - 5pm (2025)

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T:01573 410225 E:enquiries@mellerstain.com

W:www.mellerstain.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Gordon Castle Walled Garden

Fochabers, Moray IV32 7PQ
Angus and Zara Gordon Lennox

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

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T:01343 612317 E:info@gordoncastlescotland.com

W:www.gordoncastle.co.uk

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

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

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

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

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Abriachan Garden Nursery

Loch Ness Side IV3 8LA
Mr and Mrs Davidson

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

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T:01463 861232 E:info@lochnessgarden.com

W:www.lochnessgarden.com

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

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

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Highland Hospice 60%

Abbotsford

Melrose TD6 9BQ
The Abbotsford Trust

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

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

W:www.scottsabbotsford.com

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

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

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

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Knock Newhouse

Lochgair PA31 8RZ
Mrs Hew Service

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

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T:01546 886628 E:corranmorhouse@aol.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

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

Glenarn

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

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

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T:01436 820493 E:masthome@btinternet.com

W:www.glenarn.com

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Amma : Birth Companions (SCIO) 50%

Blair Castle Gardens

Blair Atholl PH18 5TL
Blair Charitable Trust

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

345d7k

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

W:www.blair-castle.co.uk

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

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

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

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

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Crinan Hotel Garden

Crinan PA31 8SR
Mrs N Ryan

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

1467k

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

W:www.crinanhotel.com

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

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & Guide Dogs 30%

An Cala

Ellenabeich, Isle of Seil PA34 4RF
Mrs Sheila Downie

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

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

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

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

Dunvegan Castle and Gardens

Isle of Skye IV55 8WF
Hugh Macleod of Macleod

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

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T:01470 521206 E:info@dunvegancastle.com

W:www.dunvegancastle.com

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

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

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

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Tinnisburn Plants

Upper Millsteads, Canonbie DG14 0RY
Helen Knowles

1 April - 31 August (Friday, Saturday & Sunday), 10am - 4pm (2025)

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

W:tinnisburn.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

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

Pitmuies Gardens

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

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

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T:01241 828245 E:ogilvie@pitmuies.com

W:www.pitmuies.com

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

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Attadale

Strathcarron IV54 8YX
Joanna Macpherson

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

3c67k

T:01520 722217 E:info@attadalegardens.com

W:www.attadalegardens.com

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

Directions: On the A890 between Strathcarron and South Strome.

Admission: £10.00, children free

Charities: Highland Hospice 60%

Craigieburn House

by Moffat DG10 9LF
Janet and Peter McGowan

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

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T:07557 928648 E:bideshi2024@outlook.com

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Bughtrig

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

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

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E:ramsay@bughtrig.co.uk

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

Directions: ¼ mile east of Leitholm on the B6461.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Glenkyllachy

Tomatin IV13 7YA
Mr and Mrs Philip Mackenzie

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

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E:emmaglenkyllachy@gmail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie 60%

Leathad Ard

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

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

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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%

Floors Castle

Kelso TD5 7SF
The Duke of Roxburghe

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

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T:01573 223333

W:www.floorscastle.com

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

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

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

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

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Balmeanach House

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

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

2c7

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

W:www.skye-holiday.com

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

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

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Scottish SPCA 30% & Redwings 30%

Dunninald Castle

Montrose DD10 9TD
The Stansfeld family

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

6d7

T:01674 672031 E:estateoffice@dunninald.com

W:www.dunninald.com

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries

Linn Botanic Gardens

Cove, By Helensburgh G84 0NR
Matthew Young

18 June - 17 August (not Monday & Tuesday), 10am - 5pm (2025)

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W:www.thelinn.co.uk

The Linn Botanic Gardens used to be one of the only privately owned gardens to be accredited as a botanical garden, under the stewardship of its creators, Jim and Jamie Taggart. Sadly Jamie died on a plant-hunting expedition to Vietnam in 2013, and Jim's failing health and old age limited the care he could take of the place from that point onwards. He himself then passed away in 2019, at which point the garden was closed and was not maintained at all until 2021 when it was purchased by the current owners.

Since then extensive work has been taking place to renovate and reopen the gardens, and to rebuild the disintegrating villa at their heart. It is still very much a work in progress, but large parts of the old plant collection remain intact. You are invited to explore what has been restored and to discuss the plans to complete the repair work and then further develop the garden in the future, but please do bear in mind that it is a long way from being the finished article just yet.

Directions: From Helensburgh, head North to Garelochhead. Go through Garelochhead and turn left on the B833, towards Rosneath and Kilcreggan. Drive around the whole peninsula, through both those villages until you reach Cove. Past Cove Country Store and Cove Burgh Hall you will see Cove picnic area by the shore on your left, which is the only public parking facility. From there, walk up the wee lane along the burn, between the two garden walls and we are 20 metres along on the left. Alternative you can take the 316 bus to Coulport from Colquhoun Square in Helensburgh and ask the driver to kick you off at Cove picnic area.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Scottish Refugee Council 60%

Dougarie

Isle of Arran KA27 8EB
Mrs S C Gibbs

By arrangement (2025)

7

E:laviniawgibbs@gmail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Pirnmill Village Association 60%

Kilchoan Gardens

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

By arrangement (2025)

679

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

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

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

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

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

Barholm Castle

Gatehouse of Fleet DG7 2EZ
Drs John and Janet Brennan

By arrangement (2025)

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T:01557 840327 E:barholmcastle@gmail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Home-Start Wigtownshire 60%

Charleston Forest Garden

43 Gourdie Terrace, Dundee DD2 4QT
L Wakefield

By arrangement (2025)

47

E:charlestonforestgarden@gmail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Dementia UK 60%

Stockarton

Kirkcudbright DG6 4XS
Lt Col and Mrs Richard Cliff

By arrangement (2025)

67

T:01557 330430

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Loch Arthur 60%

Ruthven House

near Coldstream TD12 4JU
Keith and Karen Fountain

By arrangement between 1 January - 12 September (2025)

067

T:01890 840680 E:ruthvenhouse@btconnect.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Scottish Action for Mental Health 60%

Harthill

Reediehill Farm, Auchtermuchty KY14 7HS
Nichola and John Fletcher

By arrangement between 6 January - 31 October (2025)

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T:01337 828369 E:info@nicholafletcher.com

W:www.nicholafletcher.com

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: TST: The Tim Stead Trust 60%

The Pond Garden

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

By arrangement between 1 February - 31 December (2025)

67

T:07767 407396 E:fay@fayyoung.org

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

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

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

Admission: £5.50, children free

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

Madeira

Grangemuir, Pittenweem KY10 2RB
Tara Macdonald

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

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T:07867 798746 E:tara@madeirainfife.com

W:www.madeirainfife.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Gargunnock House Garden

Gargunnnock FK8 3AZ
The Gargunnock Trustees

By arrangement between 1 February - 1 June (2025)

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T:Garden contact: William Campbell 01786 842538 E:william.campbellwj@btinternet.com

Large mature garden five miles from Stirling, with a walled garden, well-established house garden, woodland walks with species and hybrid rhododendrons, massed plantings of azaleas and wonderful specimen trees. Snowdrops in February/March are followed by over 40 varieties of daffodils and the glorious displays of azaleas and rhododendrons in May. The three-acre walled garden contains perennial borders, cut-flower beds, greenhouses, fruit orchard and newly planted arboretum of specimen trees. The Walled Garden is now used by the charity Green Routes to give gardening education to adults with learning difficulties. Guided tours are available for groups.

Designed Landscape: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/GDL00188

Directions: Five miles west of Stirling on the A811. Car parking is at the entrance by the lodge.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Rhododendron Species Conservation Group 60%

Delvine

Murthly PH1 4LD
Mr David Gemmell

By arrangement between 1 February - 1 December (2025)

7

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

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Army Benevolent Fund 60%

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn

By arrangement between 12 February - 16 July (2025)

7

T:01721 740220 E:rpthorburn@icloud.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Chaplains' Court

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

By arrangement between 1 March - 30 September (2025)

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T:01224 491675 E:irene@wischik.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: SSAFA Forces Help 60%

Luckie Harg's

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

By arrangement between 1 March - 30 September (2025)

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T:01557 814141 E:luckiehargs@btinternet.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Scottish Rock Garden Club 60%

3 Millhall

Shore Road, Kirkcudbright DG6 4TQ
Mr Alan Shamash

By arrangement between 1 March - 31 October (2025)

7

T:01557 870352 E:shamash@freeuk.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer's Research UK 60%

Kilbryde Castle

Dunblane FK15 9NF
Sir James and Lady Campbell

By arrangement between 16 March - 30 September (2025)

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T:01786 824897 E:carolaandjames@googlemail.com

W:www.kilbrydecastle.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Leighton Library Trust 60%

The Carriage House

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

By arrangement between 29 March - 26 October (2025)

57

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: The National Trust for Scotland 60%

Bonhard House

Perth PH2 7PQ
Stephen and Charlotte Hay

By arrangement between Groups welcome to enquire (2025)

67

T:07990 574570 E:stephenjohnhay@me.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Freedom from Fistula Foundation 60%

Rosewells

Baldinnie, Ceres KY15 5LE
Birgitta and Gordon MacDonald

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 August (2025)

67

E:g.macdonald54@hotmail.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Save the Children UK 60%

Kirklands

Saline KY12 9TS
Peter and Gill Hart

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)

23c467

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

W:www.kirklandsgarden.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Saline & District Heritage Society 60%

Leathad Ard

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

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 April (2025)

47

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%

Glassmount House

by Kirkcaldy KY2 5UT
Peter, James and Irene Thomson

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)

7

T:01592 890214 E:mcmoonter@yahoo.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Parkinsons UK 60%

46 South Street

St Andrews KY16 9JT
Mrs June Baxter

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 July (2025)

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T:01334 474995 E:ejbaxter986@gmail.com

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

Directions: Access and parking information on request.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Friends of Craigtoun 60%

Burnside

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

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)

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T:01292 592445 E:suesimpson33@btinternet.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer's Research UK 60%

Corsock House

Corsock, Castle Douglas DG7 3DJ
The Ingall family

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 May (2025)

67

T:01644 440250 E:jingall@hotmail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Corsock & Kirkpatrick Durham Church Of Scotland 60%

Dundonnell House

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QW
Dundonnell Estates

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2025)

6e7

T:07789 390028 E:sueandwill@icloud.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

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

Broomhill Villa

4 Edinburgh Road, Greenlaw TD10 6XF
Tatyana Aplin

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 June (2025)

67

T:07957 288557 E:aplin848@btinternet.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Cancer Research UK 60%

Pitcurran House

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

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 August (2025)

3c467

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

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

Thirlestane

Kelso TD5 8PD
Catherine Ross and John Wylie

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2025)

67

T:01573 420487 E:catherineaross37@gmail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 60%

Kirkmuir Cottage

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

By arrangement between 1 April - 31 August (2025)

7

E:dhmmacp@gmail.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Capability Scotland 60%

16 Mulla

Voe, Shetland ZE2 9XQ
Linda Richardson

By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)

47

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

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: RSPB: for projects in Shetland 60%

Craigowan

Ballinluig PH9 0NE
Simon Jones

By arrangement between 6 April - 30 June (2025)

67

T:07856 859219 E:simonqjones@mail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: LUPUS UK 60%

Auldbyres Farm Garden

Coylton KA6 6HG
Marshall and Sue Veitch

By arrangement between 12 April - 31 August (2025)

67

E:su.pavet@btinternet.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre 60%

Old Farm Cottage

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

By arrangement between 18 April - 30 September (2025)

467

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

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

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

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Dogs Trust 60%

Ardno

Cairndow PA26 8BE
Denzil How

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)

7

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

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Rediweld Foundation 60%

Glenkyllachy

Tomatin IV13 7YA
Mr and Mrs Philip Mackenzie

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)

7

E:emmaglenkyllachy@gmail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie 60%

Damnaglaur House

Drummore, Stranraer DG9 9QN
Frances Collins

By arrangement between Open by arrangement for groups of a minimum of 4 adults. (2025)

67

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

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: British Red Cross: Yemen appeal 60%

Brooklands

Crocketford DG2 8QH
Mr and Mrs Robert Herries

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)

67

T:Gardener, Matthew Grieve: 07765 491902

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Drumpark

Irongray DG2 9TX
Mr and Mrs Iain Mitchell

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 August (2025)

e7

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

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

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

Admission: by donation

Charities: Loch Arthur 60%

The Potting Shed

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

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)

c67

T:01899 830574 E:buchanandunlop@btinternet.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

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

48 Rumblingwell

48 Rumblingwell, Dunfermline KY12 9AS
Rik Morley

By arrangement between 1 May - 1 July (2025)

0467

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

Welcome to our compact city garden! On entering you are welcomed by a small butterfly meadow, planted rockery and a newly-established fernery. A splash of colour from the early May alliums and rhododendrons leads through to an alpine-planted water feature and cascading ponds with a Japanese/cottage garden aesthetic. A key feature of the garden is the many bearded and species irises (over 100) adorning each garden bed. Uncommon ornamental trees and shrubs (many from Asia) add layers of height, shade and fruits in the summer. Come and join us for a cup of tea and take a moment to enjoy our tranquil space.

Directions: The garden is approached via a short path which is opposite Stephens drive-through bakery and by the side of Simpson's Motors. The No.4 bus from Dunfermline bus station runs regularly to a stop very close to the house.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Wader Quest 60%

Carig Dhubh

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

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)

7

T:01796 473469 E:niallgc@btinternet.com

'I don’t know how Niall and Jane manage to grow their splendid meconopsis on the sand and rock of their garden but they do, most successfully.' In this stunning situation, when not admiring the views, you will find wonderful primulas, cardiocrinum and meconopsis, all interspersed between beautiful shrubs and other herbaceous plants. Look up and in July you will see roses flowering 40 feet up in the tree. This is a gem of a garden and you will be welcomed by Niall and Jane Graham-Campbell with all their expert knowledge.

Directions: Take the old A9 between Pitlochry and Killiecrankie, turn west on the Tummel Bridge Road B8019, Carig Dhubh is three-quarters of a mile on the north side of the road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Earl Haig Fund Poppy Scotland 60%

Beechwood

Broughton, Peeblesshire ML12 6HH
Susheila and James Gordon

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)

267

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

W:www.rachan.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: MND Scotland 60%

Lennel Bank

Coldstream TD12 4EX
Mrs Honor Brown

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)

07

T:01890 882297 E:honor.b.brown@gmail.com

Lennel Bank is a terraced garden overlooking the River Tweed, consisting of wide borders packed with shrubs and perennial planting, some unusual. The water garden, built in 2008, is surrounded by a rockery and utilises the slope, ending in a pond. There is a small kitchen garden with raised beds in unusual shapes. Different growing conditions throughout the garden from dry, wet, shady and sunny, lend themselves to a variety of plants and enhance interest in the garden.

Directions: On the A6112 Coldstream to Duns road, one mile from Coldstream.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: British Heart Foundation 60%

Netherbyres

Eyemouth TD14 5SE
Col S J Furness

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 August (2025)

57

T:01890 750337

An unusual, elliptical walled garden, dating from 1740, with a mixture of flowers, fruit and vegetables. A very old pear tree, possibly dating from the 18th century, and the largest rose in Berwickshire, Rosa filipes 'Kiftsgate'. A wide variety of roses and herbaceous borders.

Directions: ½ mile south of Eyemouth on the A1107 to Berwick.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Dal an Eas

Kilmore, Oban PA34 4XU
Mary Lindsay

By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)

2c7

T:01631 770246 E:marylindsayargyll@googlemail.com

An informal organic country garden with the aim of increasing the biodiversity of native plants and insects while adding interest and colour with introduced trees, shrubs and naturalised perennials. There is a structured garden round the house and beyond there are extensive flower-filled ‘meadows’ with five different species of native orchid. Grass paths lead to waterfalls, vegetable plot, woodland garden, views and ancient archaeological sites.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

Amat

Amat Lodge, Ardgay IV24 3BS
Jonny and Sara Shaw

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 July (2025)

6e7

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

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & Marie Curie 30%

West Leas

near Bonchester Bridge TD9 8TD
Mr and Mrs Robert Laidlaw

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)

67

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

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

Directions: Signposted off the Jedburgh/Bonchester Bridge Road.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support: Borders Appeal 60%

Kildalloig

Campbeltown PA28 6RE
Mr and Mrs Joe Turner

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)

7

T:07979 855930 E:kildalloig@gmail.com

Coastal garden with some interesting and unusual shrubs including Australasian shrubs and trees, climbing roses, and herbaceous perennials. There is a woodland walk and a pond garden with aquatic and bog plants.

Directions: Take the A83 to Campbeltown, then three miles south-east of the town past Davaar Island.

Admission: £5.00, children free

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

Struanbridge

Essich Road, Inverness IV2 6AH
Marcus and Catriona Jenks

By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)

247

E:mjenks@greenx.co.uk

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

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

Admission: £4.00, children free

Charities: Mikeysline 60%

Arndean

by Dollar FK14 7NH
Johnny and Katie Stewart

By arrangement between 6 May - 7 June (2025)

57

T:07940530499 E:johnny@arndean.co.uk

Opening for more than 40 years, this is a beautiful mature garden extending to 15 acres including the woodland walk. There is a formal herbaceous part, a small vegetable garden and an orchard. In addition, there are flowering shrubs, abundant and striking rhododendrons and azaleas as well as many fine specimen trees. There is a tree house for children.

Directions: Arndean is well signposted off the A977.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie 60%

Ilha de Deus

Tiroran, Isle of Mull PA69 6ET
John Innes

By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2025)

2c79

T:01681705022 E:johninnes2009@hotmail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Open Doors with Brother Andrew 60%

Portmore

Eddleston EH45 8QU
Mr and Mrs David Reid

By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2025)

1c45d7

T:07905 776894

W:www.portmoregardens.co.uk

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

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

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

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

Charities: Abundant Borders (SCIO) 60%

Kirkbrae House

Culross KY12 8JD
Sandra Bannister

By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2025)

12c467

E:Sandra.bannister18@gmail.com

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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free

Charities: Pancreatic Cancer Scotland 30% & Perennial 30%

15 Fairfield Road

Broughty Ferry, Dundee DD5 1NX
Aileen Scoular

By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2025)

4679

E:aileen.scoular@me.com

This sunny, contemporary garden contains many mature trees and shrubs, plus lots of recently planted beds and borders. A shady courtyard contains Japanese acers and spring-flowering bulbs, while colourful perennial planting near the house attracts pollinating insects. A new productive area, with raised beds and a greenhouse, is used to grow fruit and veg, plus dahlias and annual cut flowers. The garden is being developed in a sustainable way, where possible – no herbicides or pesticides are used; rainwater is harvested; and the stone used in the landscaping was found in the garden and re-purposed. The garden has a prolific bird and insect population, despite being in an urban location.

Directions: Fairfield Road is easily reached by car, via Dundee Road (A930) or Arbroath Road (A92); by bus - services 73 and 5 both stop on Strathern Road, a two-minute walk away; and by train - Broughty Ferry train station is a 15-20 minute walk. On street parking available.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: RNLI 60%

Glenrinnes Lodge

Dufftown, Keith, Banffshire AB55 4BS
Mrs Kathleen Locke (please contact Glenrinnes Farms Ltd Estate Office)

By arrangement between 2 June - 30 September (not Saturday & Sunday) (2025)

67

T:01340 820384/073939 28049

W:www.glenrinnes.com

The garden and policies surrounding Glenrinnes Lodge are typical of a Victorian lodge. They are full of exciting colourful borders. Newly-developed areas are now beginning to establish and give year-round seasonal interest in the kitchen garden and glasshouse, the secret garden, labyrinth and bog garden. There are also woodland walks and a flight pond and meadow. If you are lucky, you may spot our red squirrel, otter and pine marten, all caught on our woodland trail camera.

Directions: In the centre of Dufftown at the Clock Tower take the B9009 road to Tomintoul for about one mile. After passing Dufftown Golf Club on your right there is a lane to the left, which leads to two stone pillars to Glenrinnes Lodge.

Admission: £10.00, children free

Charities: Alzheimer's Research UK 60%

Clonyard Farm

Colvend, Dalbeattie DG5 4QW
Matthew and Pam Pumphrey

By arrangement between 15 June - 30 June (2025)

0467

E:clonyard@btinternet.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Marie Curie: DG5 Group 60%

Bannockburn House Gardens

Stirling FK7 8EY
Bannockburn House Trust

By arrangement between 1 July - 30 September (2025)

67

T:07980284027 E:gardens@bannockburnhouse.scot

W:www.bannockburnhouse.scot

Bannockburn House, an A-listed mansion built in 1675 by Sir Hugh Paterson, now sits in 26 acres of woodland and gardens. Bonnie Prince Charlie visited in 1746 where he met Clementina Walkinshaw who would become his mistress. Local boy, John McLaren, creator of The Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, began his gardening career here in 1860. The house and gardens suffered from 50 years of neglect before coming into community ownership in 2017 with restoration ongoing. Features include an enclosed kitchen garden supplying fruit and vegetables to two local food banks; herb gardens, an orchard, fruit cages, pollinator garden, wisteria border, labyrinth, polytunnels and raised beds. A short woodland walk passes 'The Five Sisters' - our fabulous giant redwood trees; the Fountain Walk passes our veteran lime trees, a cast-iron fountain (built by Steven in 1888 ), and our award-winning apiary. On 17th August, short tours of the house will also be available - they must be booked online in advance through the Bannockburn House website. The gardens can be viewed by arrangement through July to end September.

Directions: The house entrance is 0.2 miles from the Bannockburn Interchange (M9/Junction 9 roundabout) off the A91.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Bannockburn House Trust 60%

Larch House

Clerklands, Near Lilliesleaf TD6 9JR
David and Julia King

By arrangement between 1 July - 31 August (2025)

37

T:01835 870888 E:northcorner14@btinternet.com

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 towards Lilliesleaf and the house will be clearly signed. Car parking is on site.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries

2 Durnamuck

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QZ
Will Soos and Susan Pomeroy

By arrangement between 1 July - 30 September (2025)

7k

T:07789 390028 E:sueandwill@icloud.com

W:2Durnamuckgarden.com. You can also find us on Facebook.

Our garden is south-east facing on the edge of Little Loch Broom. It is a coastal plantsman's garden with a rich mix of herbaceous borders, trees and shrubs, vegetables, drystone wall planting. South African/Mediterranean plants, a wild meadow and stunning views. Many of the plants have been collected from all over the world, and growing them has provided obvious challenges but with a pleasing outcome. Featured in 2019 entries in Gardens Illustrated, Homes & Gardens and Beechgrove. Entry in the English Garden magazine in September 2020.

Directions: On the A832, between Dundonnell and Ullapool, take the turning along the single-track road signed Badcaul, continue to the egg shack, turn right, go to the bottom of the hill and 2 Durnamuck is the house with the red roof. There is parking down by the house if needed.

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: Sandpiper Trust 60%

Craigowan

Ballinluig PH9 0NE
Simon Jones

By arrangement between 20 September - 20 October (2025)

67

T:07856 859219 E:simonqjones@mail.com

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free

Charities: LUPUS UK 60%