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Stobshiel House

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)
67
T:01875 833646 or 07876 350725 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%
Humbie Dean

Humbie Dean

Humbie EH36 5PW
Frank Kirwan
Wednesday 19 March, Wednesday 2 April, Wednesday 16 April, Wednesday 14 May, Wednesday 11 June, Wednesday 9 July & Wednesday 27 August, 10:30am - 4pm (2025)
c
frank.kirwan@gmail.com
A two-acre ornamental and wooded garden on a variety of levels, sandwiched between two burns at 600 feet, planted for year-round interest. The palette of plants includes hostas, hellebores, perennial geraniums, primula, meconopsis, martagon lilies, clematis, spring bulbs, ground cover, herbaceous and shrub planting, erythronium, daffodil and bluebell meadow, mature and recent azalea and rhododendron planting, and vegetable beds. The lower sections of the garden are only accessible by a series of steps.

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

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

The Limes

Kirkcudbright DG6 4XD
David and Carolyn McHale
Sunday 23 March, Sunday 27 April & Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
6
carolyn.mchale@btinternet.com
This one-and-a-quarter acre plantswoman’s garden has a variety of different plant habitats: woodland, dry sunny gravel beds, rock garden, crevice garden and mixed perennial and shrub borders. There is also a large productive vegetable garden. The McHales like to grow most of their plants from seed obtained through various international seed exchanges. You can expect to see a large number of unusual and exciting plants. The garden is full of colour with an abundance of spring flowers in March, and in late May and early June the meconopsis should be at their best. The gravel garden comes into its own in July and continues through until winter. Hardy cyclamen are a big favourite and one species or another is in flower in almost every month of the year. Winter is a good time to admire their varied leaf forms.

Directions: In Kirkcudbright go straight along St Mary Street towards Dundrennan. The Limes is on the right, about half a mile from the town centre crossroads, on the edge of the town.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Friends Of Kirkcudbright Swimming Pool 60%
Mill of Forneth

Mill of Forneth

Forneth, Blairgowrie PH10 6SP
Mr and Mrs Graham Wood
Sunday 30 March & Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 4pm (2025)
26
gaw@forneth-mill.co.uk
Built on the site of a former watermill on the Lunan Burn, originally laid out in the 1970s by James Aitken, the Scottish landscape designer and naturalist. The sheltered four-acre garden has a range of mature trees, including a Himalayan blue cedar, large rhododendrons, azaleas and a wide range of shrubs. The former mill lade feeds rocky waterfalls and a lily pond. Planting includes established perennials with seasonal colours, many bulbs, primulas and heathers, plus a vegetable garden on the site of an old tennis court and a new wildflower meadow.

Directions: Take the A923 Dunkeld to Blairgowrie road. Six miles east of Dunkeld turn south onto a minor road signposted Snaigow and Clunie. Mill of Forneth is the first gate on the left-hand side. PLEASE NOTE due to wet weather conditions there may be limited safe meadow parking on site (exceptions will be made for people with mobility problems).

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Perthshire Women's Aid 60%
Glendoick

Glendoick

Glencarse, Perthshire PH2 7NS
Cox Family
1 April - 31 May, 10am - 4pm, admission £5.00, children free. (2025)
3c4d
T:01738 860260 gardencentre@glendoick.com
Glendoick’s gardens and garden centre with its award-winning café is the ideal spring day out in April and May. Glendoick boasts a unique collection of plants from three generations of Cox plant-hunting expeditions in China and the Himalaya. Enjoy one of the finest collections of rhododendrons and azaleas, magnolias and other acid-loving plants in the woodland garden and the gardens surrounding the house. Many of the rhododendron and azalea species and hybrids have been introduced from the wild or bred by the Cox family. There are fine waterfall views in the woodland gardens. The award-winning Glendoick Garden Centre has one of Scotland’s best selections of plants including their world-famous rhododendrons and azaleas as well as a gift shop and café.

Directions: Follow the brown signs to Glendoick Garden Centre off the A90 Perth - Dundee road. The gardens are a half-mile behind the Garden Centre. After buying tickets at the Garden Centre, please drive up and park at the gardens (free parking).

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

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
admin@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.

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

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn
Wednesdays only 2 - 30 April, 1pm - 4pm. (2025)
7
T:01721 740220 rpthorburn@icloud.com
Kirkton Manor House has a delightful, three-acre, informal country garden set in the beautiful Manor Valley. It enjoys spectacular open views and calling curlews from its riverside position. Bluebells flank the impressive entrance leading to a new shrub border. Stone steps continue through to terraced slopes filled with bulbs, roses and hellebores providing height, interest and fragrance. Grass paths meander along the burn where snowdrops, blue and white camassia, meconopsis, and ligularia thrive in this sunny meadow environment. Later, in June, sisyrinchiums, irises, orchids and many flowering shrubs and roses are abundant. The natural woodland includes many interesting trees.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
A Blackbird Sings

A Blackbird Sings

20 Kings Park, Longniddry EH32 0QL
Graham and Maxine Pettigrew
Saturday 12 April, Saturday 3 May, Saturday 31 May, Saturday 14 June, Saturday 19 July, Saturday 16 August & Saturday 6 September, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
46
T:01875 853003
Situated in the Glassel Park Estate, the planting of this long garden reflects East Lothian habitats including moorland, grassland and woodland, as well as areas of related plant varieties such as rockery, roses, ferns, heucheras and peonies. Together they form a pattern of gardens within a garden accessed by boardwalks and woodland paths. A large water lily pond houses newts and a second pond within a rockery is fed by a waterfall, A cold conservatory contains cacti and insectivorous plants. Vertical structure is provided by a large number of specimen small trees such as Cornus, maples, magnolias, contorted Robinia, Chinese rowan, Davidia and Honey Locust. Animal and bird carvings in wood by Graham reflect local fauna.

Directions: By car: enter Dean Road from A198, right at Kings Avenue, right at Kings Park. House is at the end of the second cul-de-sac. By bus (124, X5): Cunningham Court stop, down Cunningham Court and Old Dean Road to turn right on Kings Avenue and then right at Kings Park.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Leuchie 30% & Scottish Wildlife Trust Ltd 30%
Shepherd House

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 ann.shepherdhouse@gmail.com
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

Longwood

Humbie EH36 5PN
Linda Flockhart and Sandra Gentle
Wednesday 16 April, Wednesday 14 May & Wednesday 11 June, 10:30am - 4pm (2025)
67
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%
Blackdykes Garden

Blackdykes Garden

Blackdykes Farmhouse, North Berwick, East Lothian EH39 5PQ
Sir Hew and Lady Dalrymple
Friday 18 April & Friday 25 April, 11am - 4:30pm (2025)
Blackdykes Garden was created 30 years ago from open fields. The three-acre site has extensive views southwards towards the Lammermuirs. The formal heart of the garden consists of a series of rooms hemmed in by stone walls and clipped hedges of yew, beech and hornbeam. These are planted with roses, irises, climbers and perennials. Surrounding the formal garden is a network of mown grass paths and avenues, carpeted with fritillaries, narcissi, muscari and cowslips. The informal garden is planted with ornamental cherries, magnolias, species roses and topiary.

Directions: Leave North Berwick on the A198 towards Dunbar. Half a mile after Tesco, turn right at Rhodes Holdings. After one mile you will arrive at Blackdykes.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Leuchie 60%
Ardvorlich

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

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)
457
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%
17a Menzieshill Road

17a Menzieshill Road

Dundee DD2 1PS
Mr and Mrs John Stoa
Saturday/Sunday, 19/20 April & Saturday/Sunday, 3/4 May, 11am - 3pm (2025)
4
This Dundee garden is on a fairly steep slope with steps and paths. It features a riot of colour in April/May with thousands of tulip bulbs followed by azaleas and rhododendrons. There is a large fig tree and a grapevine ‘Brant’ growing on south-facing walls. In the greenhouse, John grows tomatoes and has four grapevines, Phoenix, Seigerrebe, Muller Thurgau and Solaris, used for his Muscat flavoured wines (samples available). He has recently planted three seedless grapes (Himrod, Glenora and Suffolk Red) outdoors on a south facing fence as a trial. John is a horticulturist, as seen by unusual fruit varieties such as Saskatoon, and an artist. His gallery will be open.

Directions: Turn off the A85/Riverside Ave at the roundabout towards Dundee Botanic Gardens. Pass the Botanics, road bears left and becomes Perth Rd. Right onto Invergowrie Drive and first left on Menzieshill Road. 17A has a prominent white stemmed birch tree. Bus 5A to the foot of Glamis Rd and walk west to Invergowrie Drive.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Cancer Research UK 60%
Inchmill Cottage

Inchmill Cottage

Glenprosen, near Kirriemuir DD8 4SA
Iain Nelson
Monday 21 April, Thursday 8 May, Thursday 22 May, Thursday 12 June, Thursday 10 July, Thursday 14 August & Thursday 4 September, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
T:01575 540452
This is a long, sloping and terraced garden at over 800 feet in the Braes of Angus, developed to be a garden for all seasons. Half is dominated by bulbs, rhododendrons, azaleas, primulas, meconopsis and clematis. The other half is mainly later summer bulbs, herbaceous plants and roses. There is also a rockery/scree.

Directions: Please DO NOT use SatNav. From Kirriemuir take the B955 (signposted The Glens) to Dykehead (about five miles). From there follow the Prosen sign for about five miles. Inchmill is the white-fronted cottage beside the phone box in the village. There is car parking beside the church (50 yards away) and by the village hall opposite.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: The Archie Foundation 60%
Willowhill

Willowhill

Forgan, Newport-on-Tay DD6 8RA
Eric Wright and Sally Lorimore
Saturday/Sunday/Monday, 26/27/28 April, Saturday 7 June, Monday 9 June, Saturday 14 June & Monday 16 June, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
c6
T:01382 542890 willowhillfife@btinternet.com
An evolving three-acre garden. The house is surrounded by a series of mixed borders designed with different vibrant colour combinations for effect in all seasons. Spectacular mix of roses, herbaceous perennials and annuals planted through the wide borders are a highlight in mid to late summer. A ‘no dig’ 160-foot border in shades of white, blue, purple and pale yellow was created in 2019/2020. The most recent addition to the garden is another ‘no dig’ border in shades of peach, burgundy, yellow, chocolate and acid yellow. Come and see! April and May for late spring bulbs and flowers; June and July for roses and high summer colour; August for late summer colour. The plant stall includes a lovely selection from the garden. Visitors are welcome to bring their own refreshments and picnic in the garden. A season ticket for all these dates, and by arrangement, is £25 plus p&p and admits the ticket holder plus guest. It comes with a limited edition of the Willowhill Garden Guide: 35 pages of beautiful photographs with descriptions of key garden features and plantings. A season ticket with booklet is a perfect gift for garden lovers for a birthday or at Christmas and do treat yourself too! Season tickets are available online at tinyurl.com/yxcj2mzy or by post (cheque for £27.76 payable to Scotland’s Garden Scheme) from Scotland's Gardens Scheme, 23 Castle Street, Edinburgh EH2 3DN.

Directions: 1.5 miles south of Tay Road Bridge. Take the B995 to Newport off the Forgan roundabout. Willowhill is the first house on the left-hand side next to West Friarton Farm Strawberry Shed.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Rio Community Centre 50%
Megginch Castle

Megginch Castle

Errol PH2 7SW
Giles Herdman and Catherine Drummond-Herdman
Sunday 27 April, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
25ea7
info@megginch.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 and Glencairn Gardens

Eglinton Crescent, Edinburgh EH12 5DD
Eglinton and Glencairn Gardens Association
Sunday 27 April, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
284579
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

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 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.

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 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)
c47
T:01700 503461(house) 07824 393 009 (Josceline) 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
Edenhill

Edenhill

Kennedy Gardens, St Andrews KY16 9DJ
Mr John Angus
Friday/Saturday/Sunday, 2/3/4 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
4
T:07710 369747 1edenhill@gmail.com
Behind the imposing exterior of a handsome Victorian house in St Andrews lies a true hidden gem of a garden, Edenhill. This is a mature garden designed and planted some years ago with the help of Michael Innes and lovingly nurtured and developed by the owner, John Angus. The garden is enclosed by handsome old walls clothed in clematis and honeysuckle and there are several mature trees, including a monkey puzzle. Beneath some rather special species rhododendrons, there are carpets of colourful anemones, rare trilliums and some beautiful peonies. The sculptor, James Parker, has created some eye-catching sculptures for Edenhill and the most recent addition to this fascinating garden is a rill, the sound of which adds to the tranquillity of this very special garden.

Directions: Kennedy Gardens is situated off Hepburn Gardens in residential St Andrews, only 5 minutes walk from St Andrews bus station (through Kinburn Park). The street sits above the University Science campus.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Sightsavers 60%
The Secret Garden

The Secret Garden

Isle of Lismore, Oban, Argyll PA34 5UL
Eva Tombs
1 May - 1 September (Wednesday & Saturday), 10am - 5pm (2025)
2c
T:07786 374931 eva.tombs@gmail.com
A unique garden at the centre of a biodynamic farm on the Island of Lismore in the Inner Hebrides. The garden created from a field has a strong geometric layout that reflects the ecclesiastical history of the island. It has a vegetable garden, a tree nursery, a physic garden, an orchard and a polytunnel. The garden is a haven for wildflowers, birds, bees and butterflies. Standing stones, meadows, new woodlands, mountains and the sea encompass the whole. There is also a herd of rare breed Shetland cattle, chickens, ducks and friendly cats.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 30% & Oban Gaelic Choir 30%
The Biblical Garden

The Biblical Garden

King Street, Elgin, Moray IV30 1HU
The Friends of the Biblical Garden
Saturday 3 May, 11am - 3pm (2025)
3c467
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

Kames Bay

Kilmelford PA34 4XA
Stuart Cannon
Saturday/Sunday, 3/4 May, 2pm - 6pm (2025)
2c7
T:07770 817877 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%
No Photo

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
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%
Dr Neil's Garden

Dr Neil's Garden

Duddingston Village EH15 3PX
Dr Neil's Garden Trust
Saturday/Sunday, 3/4 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c5
info@drneilsgarden.co.uk
A wonderful, secluded landscaped garden on the lower slopes of Arthur’s Seat including conifers, heathers, alpines, a physic garden, herbaceous borders and ponds.

Directions: Park at the kirk car park on Duddingston Road West and then follow signposts through the manse garden.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Dr. Neils Garden Trust 60%
2 Panmure Terrace

2 Panmure Terrace

Dundee DD3 6HP
Janet Ireland
Saturday 3 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
c7
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%
Greentree

Greentree

18 Greenhill Park, Edinburgh EH10 4DW
Alison Glen
Sunday 4 May, 10am - 5pm (2025)
45
A rare opportunity to appreciate a mature garden which, with the exception of one magnificent old copper beech tree, is completely planted and created by its owner Alison Glen. Designed with an artist's appreciation of form, this woodland garden shelters a large collection of rhododendrons. There are many beautiful specimen trees and shrubs including Hoheria glabrata, Halesia carolina and several magnolia species. The garden is fully wheelchair accessible and there are several ways to move through it; from the Japanese-inspired stream garden presided over by a mature Pinus wallichiana at one end, to the newly developed borders at the other.

Directions: Buses 11, 16, 15, 23, 5. By car: from the east - Chamberlain Road, Strathearn Road, from the north - Morningside Road, from the west - Colinton Road.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 60%
The Gardens of Monimail Tower

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 monimailtower@posteo.uk
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

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 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%
Blair Castle & Estate

Blair Castle & Estate

Dalry, Ayrshire KA24 4ER
Siobhan Nanson, Castle Manager
Sunday 4 May, 12:30pm - 4:30pm (2025)
23c46d
T:01294 833100 Siobhan@blairestate.co.uk
Blair Castle's private gardens will be open for visitors - allowing them to walk around the beautiful, landscaped gardens which include a collection of trees dating back to the 18th century. The gardens are continually evolving with a wonderful collection of rhododendrons, magnolias and azaleas. May is the perfect time to see the bluebells on the estate.

Directions: Exit the A737 at the Highfield roundabout. Take the first exit towards Stewarton on the B707. Follow this road for 0.8 mile and then turn right onto Blair Road. Turn left to enter the estate at the north gates - KA24 4EL for your SatNav. We will be operating a one-way system on the day for visitors.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue 60%
The Steading at Clunie

The Steading at Clunie

The Steading PH10 6SG
Jean and Dave Trudgill
Sunday 4 May, 2pm - 4pm (2025)
67k
T:01250 884263 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%
Threave Garden

Threave Garden

Castle Douglas DG7 1RX
The National Trust for Scotland
Monday 5 May, 10am - 4pm (2025)
3c85ed
T:01556 502 575 threave@nts.org.uk
Threave Garden and Nature Reserve SGS Open Day is a one-day event at the home of the National Trust for Scotland’s School of Heritage Gardening in Dumfries and Galloway, celebrating all aspects of horticulture. There will be plant nurseries, a craft fair, local producers, and plant-related talks from Threave’s Garden Instructors. In addition to this there will be children’s activities including a storyteller, face painting and bug hunting. Threave Garden Café, gift shop and plants sales will be open as normal on the day.
Champion Trees: Acer platanoides 'Princeton Gold'; Carpinus caroliniana; X Cuprocyparis leylandii 'Picturesque' and a further 25 Scottish Champion Trees

Directions: Off the A75, one mile west of Castle Douglas.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: The National Trust for Scotland: School of Gardening Heritage 60%
Dowhill

Dowhill

Cleish KY4 0HZ
Mrs Colin Maitland Dougall
Wednesdays only in May and June, 10am - 4pm (2025)
67
T:01577 850207 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

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn
Wednesdays only 7 - 28 May, 1pm - 4pm. (2025)
7
T:01721 740220 rpthorburn@icloud.com
Kirkton Manor House has a delightful, three-acre, informal country garden set in the beautiful Manor Valley. It enjoys spectacular open views and calling curlews from its riverside position. Bluebells flank the impressive entrance leading to a new shrub border. Stone steps continue through to terraced slopes filled with bulbs, roses and hellebores providing height, interest and fragrance. Grass paths meander along the burn where snowdrops, blue and white camassia, meconopsis, and ligularia thrive in this sunny meadow environment. Later, in June, sisyrinchiums, irises, orchids and many flowering shrubs and roses are abundant. The natural woodland includes many interesting trees.

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

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

Haystoun

Peebles EH45 9JG
Mrs Mary Coltman
every Wednesday in May, 1.30 - 5pm. (2025)
67
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

Baravalla Garden

by West Loch Tarbert, Argyll PA29 6YE
Baravalla Garden Partnership - Matt Heasman- Director
Thursday 8 May, 10am - 7pm (2025)
2c7
T:07793604609 mtheasman@outlook.com
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

16 Mulla

Voe, Shetland ZE2 9XQ
Linda Richardson
Saturday/Sunday, 10/11 May, 10:30am - 4:30pm (2025)
2c47
T:07765 037516 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%
No Photo

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 jo@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 Biodiversity Gardens

Cally Avenue, Gatehouse of Fleet DG7 2DJ
Kevin Hughes
Sunday 11 May & Sunday 28 September, 10am - 5pm (2025)
2c57
T:01557 815228 info@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

Cloan

by Auchterarder PH3 1PP
Neil Mitchison
Sunday 11 May, 10am - 5pm (2025)
267
T:07958 155831 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 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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Leuchie 60%
18 Duchess Park with Westburn

18 Duchess Park with Westburn

Helensburgh G84 9PY
Stewart & Sue Campbell (18 Duchess Park) Sheila Baker, Cameron & Anne Foy (Westburn)
Sunday 11 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c
18 Duchess Park The garden is small, about 40 years old, and is still being developed. The garden backs on to Duchess Wood, which is our local nature reserve. The rear garden is sloping with steps on one side and a gravel path on the other side to get to the upper garden. It is a woodland garden with two large oak trees, over 50 species and hybrid rhododendrons, and many other interesting woodland trees and plants. Sycamore in the wood behind the garden have been felled in the last year, giving more light at the back, and they have been replaced by trial planting of lower-growing shrubs and trees, both native and hybrid. Mid-May should be a good time to enjoy many of the rhododendrons in full bloom. Almost all the plants are clearly named!
Short guided wildflower walks in Duchess Wood will be offered during the afternoon by the Friends of Duchess Wood. The bluebells should be in bloom. If the weather is poor, "stout" shoes are recommended.
Westburn A woodland garden of just over two acres. The Glennan Burn runs through a woodland of oak and beech trees with bluebells in the springtime. Some of the paths are steep, but there are bridges over the burn and handrails in places. There is also an air raid shelter, and the remains of a kiln where James Ballantyne Hannay manufactured artificial diamonds in the 1800s. A lawn is surrounded by rhododendrons and azaleas, and there is a vegetable garden. Areas of the garden are currently being pruned and replanted.

Directions: From Sinclair Street, travel west along Queen Street until it becomes Duchess Park, a cul de sac. Number 18 is at the far end on the right. Proceed along West Montrose Street from Sinclair Street and take the fourth turn on the right. The entrance of Westburn is 100 yards up Campbell Street on the right-hand side.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Friends of Duchess Wood 30%, St Michael & All Angels Church 15% & Scottish SPCA 15%
Dalswinton House

Dalswinton House

Dalswinton DG2 0XZ
Mr and Mrs Peter Landale
Sunday 11 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
246d7
T:01387 740220 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. 

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%
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Belgrave Crescent Gardens

Edinburgh EH4 3AJ
The Residents of Belgrave Crescent
Sunday 11 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
28469
City centre private garden of seven acres beside the historic Dean Bridge. Shrubs, trees, herbaceous and mixed borders provide a haven of peace close to the city, with wild areas and magnificent views of the Dean Bridge and over the Water of Leith.

Directions: The garden is a five-minute walk from the West End. Enter from the East Gate in Belgrave Crescent. Buses 19, 22, 36, 37, 41, 43, 47 and 113 (Dean Bridge stop).

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Fresh Start 60%
Dalfruin

Dalfruin

Kirktonhill Road, Kirriemuir DD8 4HU
Mr and Mrs James A Welsh
Sunday 11 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
c4
A well-stocked, connoisseur’s garden of about a third of an acre situated at the end of a short cul-de-sac. There are many less common plants like varieties of trilliums, meconopsis (blue poppies), tree peonies (descendants of ones collected by George Sherriff and grown at Ascreavie), dactylorhiza and codonopsis. There is a scree garden and collection of ferns. The vigorous climbing rose, Paul’s Himalayan Musk, grows over a pergola. Interconnected ponds encourage wildlife. This 25th year of opening will be our final year.

Directions: From the centre of Kirriemuir turn left up Roods. Kirktonhill Road is on the left near the top of the hill. Park on Roods or at St Mary’s Episcopal Church. Disabled parking only in Kirktonhill Road. Bus 20 (from Dundee) getting off at either stop on the Roods.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Kirriemuir Day Care Ltd 60%
Oakmore

Oakmore

Blairhoyle, Port of Menteith, Stirling FK8 3LF
Rachel Nunn
Sunday 11 May & Sunday 13 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c6
T:07872 068080
In 2014 this garden was a 3½ acre field with a small wood and lots of rushes. Under the hands of a gardening fanatic and her willing husband, you will see a maturing garden with raised herbaceous borders, young orchards, a developing shrubbery, a rose garden, a bog garden and a variety of species trees. This is a garden for real plant enthusiasts and to enjoy it to the full, good footwear is recommended, particularly if it has been raining.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Strathcarron Hospice 30% & Macmillan Cancer Support 30%
Highwood

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%
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Cruachan Lodge

North Connel, Oban PA37 1RE
Mrs Karen Brown
Saturday/Sunday, 17/18 May & Saturday/Sunday, 20/21 September, 10am - 4pm (2025)
2c49
healthylifebykaren1@gmail.com
A lovely garden full of exciting all year round colour and interest on the shores of Loch Etive. Many unusual plants and shrubs attracting a diversity of insects and birds. My poly tunnel keeps us supplied with organic fruit and vegetables. Red squirrels are regular visitors.

Directions: From the A85 head north over the Connel Bridge turning first right heading for Bonawe on the B845. Cruachan Lodge is 2.5 miles on the left-hand side of the road. Parking is limited so please car share where possible.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & Macmillan Cancer Support 30%
No Photo

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 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%
Overdale

Overdale

Kirk Wynd, Blairgowrie PH10 6HN
Peter Mackenzie and Samantha Peck
Saturday 17 May, 11am - 4pm (2025)
269
T:07817822190 peckies4@gmail.com
A unique town garden and arboretum with magnificent views over Rattray, Blairgowrie & the Strathmore valley. Spread over 1.3 acres of southeast-facing slope, this garden has a wonderful collection of rhododendrons, acers, shrubs and collection of established trees. A series of paths winding down the steep slope takes you past the herbaceous borders, past a pond and through the tree collection. Species include Magnolia acuminata, Cornus kousa, Acer rubrum, Eucalyptus globulus, Metasequoia glyptostroboides, Sambucus nigra f. porphyrophylla, Callicarpa bodinieri and Cercidiphyllum japonicum.

Directions: Parking on Kirk Wynd is not possible due to the steep narrow road. Free street parking is available in Blairgowrie for two hours and car parks are available. Buses 57, 58 & 58A stop at the High Street or Wellmeadow bus station. From the High Street take Upper Allan Street uphill turning right into Kirk Wynd. Overdale is on the right. Disabled visitors should arrange drop off and pick up at gates.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: RNLI 60%
Regent, Royal and Carlton Terrace Gardens

Regent, Royal and Carlton Terrace Gardens

17a Royal Terrace Mews, Carlton Terrace Lane Entrance, Edinburgh EH7 5BZ
RRCT Gardens Association
Saturday 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%
Balhary Walled Garden

Balhary Walled Garden

Balhary, Alyth, Blairgowrie PH11 8LT
Teri and Paul Hodge-Neale
Saturday 17 May, Saturday 12 July & Saturday 23 August, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
6
TWO GARDENS FOR THE PRICE OF ONE!
This two-acre, organic, working walled garden is being lovingly restored by Paul, who is bringing it back to full production with the development and experimentation of the ‘no dig’ method to grow many heritage and new varieties of vegetables. He works single-handed with help once a week from a volunteer and visitors should be aware that they are visiting a space which is continually in progress, where they will have the opportunity to see the season unfold and discuss with Paul the benefits and learning processes of gardening the way he does. Aside from the vegetables, the herbaceous borders are currently being redeveloped to give added colour and interest. Paul and Teri will also open their own private therapy garden, which is a beautiful and contemplative space with serene water features, statuary, stonework and unusual plants.

Directions: Situated between Alyth and Meigle on the B954 opposite the sign to Jordanstone.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Perennial 60%
Milton of Finavon House

Milton of Finavon House

Forfar DD8 3PY
Saturday 17 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
0c857
enquiries@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
Logan Botanic Garden

Logan Botanic Garden

Port Logan, by Stranraer DG9 9ND
A Regional Garden of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Open Sunday 18 May, 10am - 5pm. Admission details can be found on the garden's website. (2025)
3c45ea
T:01776 860231 logan@rbge.org.uk
Logan Botanic Garden lies at the south-western tip of Scotland, unrivalled as ‘Scotland’s Most Exotic Garden’. Warmed by the Gulf Stream, a remarkable collection of southern hemisphere plants flourish, making this a plantsman’s paradise. Logan enjoys an almost subtropical climate where the garden's avenues and borders feature a spectacular and colourful array of half-hardy perennials. The garden is warmed by the Gulf Stream which enables plants from Australia, New Zealand, South and Central America and Southern Africa to thrive. Voted ‘Best Garden in the UK’ 2021, Logan promises a delightful day out for all.
National Plant Collection: Gunnera, Leptospermum, Griselinia, Clianthus and Sutherlandia
Champion Trees: Polylepis and Eucalyptus

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

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website
Charities: Board Of Trustees Of The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh 60%
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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
woodfallgardens@btinternet.com
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%
South Flisk

South Flisk

Blebo Craigs, Cupar KY15 5UQ
Mr and Mrs George Young
Sunday 18 May, 11am - 5pm (2025)
2c46
T:01334 850859 southfliskgarden@gmail.com
The spectacular views to Perthshire and Angus and large flooded quarry full of fish (and occasional otter) planted with impressive marginals, make this garden very special. Flights of old stone steps, cliffs, boulders, exotic ferns and mature trees form a backdrop for carpets of primroses, bluebells, spring bulbs and woodland plants like trilliums, camassia, meconopsis and colourful primulas, with rhododendrons in flower from March to July. In front of the house is a charming, mature walled garden with traditional cottage-garden planting. Next to the house is the St Andrews Pottery where George will demonstrate his pottery skills for those who need a break from the garden! A new water garden with a stream running through was created in 2023.

Directions: Six miles west of St Andrews off B939 between Strathkinness and Pitscottie. There is a small stone bus shelter opposite the road into the village and sign Blebo Craigs. See map on our website - standrewspottery.co.uk. Bus to Blebo Craigs.

Admission: £8.00, children free
Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 60%
Craig Cottage

Craig Cottage

Blebo Craigs KY15 5UQ
David and Elizabeth Wallace
Sunday 18 May, 11am - 5pm (2025)
46
Situated a few hundred yards from South Flisk is the charming Craig Cottage - a total contrast to South Flisk but the two gardens complement each other perfectly. Most of the garden has been planted since the owners moved here in 2014, although the small area of shrubs close to the cottage is original. Half of the lawn is now 'meadow' with a recent planting of fritillaries. The rest of the garden has borders with interesting plants, a rose screen, rhododendrons, azaleas, specimen and fruit trees and a productive vegetable plot. A recently extended rockery leads to an area of paths between thymes, camomile and other ground cover plants broken up by hedges and trees to provide windbreaks. The garden has fine examples of dry stone walling, most of which is the restoration of the original. A half acre field adjacent to the existing gardens has recently been added. The intention is to have meadow grasses with a small number of trees.

Directions: A short walk from South Flisk - see separate listing.

Admission: £8.00, children free
Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 60%
Shrubhill

Shrubhill

Dunblane FK15 9PA
Tiff and Michaela Wright
Sunday 18 May, 11am - 5pm (2025)
2c6
T:07821 693997 wrightrascals@gmail.com
Two acres of mixed, informal planting of some unusual rhododendrons, azaleas, specimen trees and other shrubs. Beautiful all-round views particularly over the Carse of Stirling and towards Ben Ledi and Ben Lomond. Herbaceous borders, meconopsis, late spring bulbs, water feature with a wide variety of primulas. Small walled garden predominantly for fruit and a greenhouse with a well-established vine.
As well as homemade teas being on offer, there will be a plant sale.

Directions: Two miles from Keir roundabout on the B824 on the left, just after the David Stirling Memorial, follow the signs and parking advice. One mile from the A820 and on the right.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Millimetres 2 Mountains Foundation CIO 60%
Torwood House

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 Retirement Village Garden

Inchmarlo, Banchory AB31 4AL
Skene Enterprises (Aberdeen) Ltd
Sunday 18 May, 1:30pm - 4:30pm (2025)
457
T:01330 826242 info@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

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

Arbigland House

Kirkbean, Dumfries DG2 8BQ
Alistair Alcock and Wayne Whittaker
Sunday 18 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
06d7
T:01387 880764 alcockalistair@gmail.com
Arbigland House is an Adam-style 18th-century mansion surrounded by 24 acres of woodland gardens running down to a beach on the Solway Firth. The gardens date from the 18th century but the more formal areas were developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and are currently undergoing a programme of restoration and development 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.

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%
No Photo

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 Castle

Brechin DD9 6SG
The Earl and Countess of Dalhousie
Sunday 18 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c46d7
T:01356 624566 mandyhendry@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.

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 Village Gardens

Temple EH23 4SQ
Temple Village Gardeners
Sunday 18 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
23c67
T:01875 830253 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%
Glenkindie House

Glenkindie House

Glenkindie, Alford AB33 8ST
Christopher and Camille Bently
Friday 23 May, 10am - 2pm (2025)
2c6
Glenkindie House is a 16th-century castle remodelled in the 1900s. The walled gardens are laid out in the Victorian Arts & Crafts style with herbaceous borders, a magnificent rhododendron shrubbery, specimen trees and rose beds. There is a fine collection of 19th-century yew topiary depicting teddy bears, chess pieces and characters from Alice in Wonderland. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll around the pond to view the 17th-century dovecot.

Directions: On the A97 Alford/Strathdon road, 12 miles west of Alford. Entrance to Glenkindie House is through the main gates, free parking available near the gardens.

Admission: £10.00, children free
Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 60%
Tinnisburn Plants

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 helen@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

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
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

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%
The Garden with the Dragon

The Garden with the Dragon

2, Upper Wellheads, Limekilns KY11 3JQ
Mr and Mrs Duncan Philp
Saturday 24 May & Saturday 31 May, 2pm - 4pm (2025)
0245
T:01383 872047 df.philp@btinternet.com
A quirky coastal garden hidden behind a walled plot. Scatterings of California poppies, bluebells and a varied mix of annuals and perennials with a small clear pond. Different themes blend in the garden, all overseen by a majestic dragon sculpture perched on a tree.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: PETA 60%
Tigh-na-Beithe

Tigh-na-Beithe

Birnam Glen, Birnam, Dunkeld PH8 0BW
The Robbs
Sunday 25 May, 11am - 5pm (2025)
079
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

Kilbryde Castle

Dunblane FK15 9NF
Sir James and Lady Campbell
Sunday 25 May, 11am - 5pm (2025)
3c67
T:01786 824897 carolaandjames@googlemail.com
Kilbryde Castle gardens cover some 12 acres and are situated above the Ardoch Burn and below the castle. The gardens are split into three parts: informal, woodland and wild. Natural planting (azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias and magnolias) 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

Westerhall

Bentpath, Langholm DG13 0NQ
Mrs Peter Buckley
Sunday 25 May, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
1c67
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%
Craigellie House Gardens

Craigellie House Gardens

Alyth PH11 8LA
Liz and Charles Bushby
Sunday 25 May, 1pm - 4pm (2025)
45k9
Situated on a south-facing , two-acre plot, Craigellie House dates back to around 1918. When Liz and Charles
moved there in 2018 the garden, once open with a grass tennis court but later formalised, had been badly neglected and was overshadowed by enormous conifers. Working with a professional gardener, they have crafted a garden that beautifully complements this historic home. Though still a work in progress, visitors can enjoy vibrant successional planting in the newly-formed herbaceous beds, a small woodland area and a recently-created kitchen garden.

Directions: Take the Bamff Road from Alyth, passing the church and entrance to the Den of Alyth. Continue for about ½ mile and turn right through the white gate opposite the Tullyfergus & St Fink junction. Stagecoach bus 57 or 57A to Alyth & 25 minute walk.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
No Photo

Kirklands

Saline KY12 9TS
Peter and Gill Hart
Sunday 25 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
467
T:07787 115477 peter@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

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.

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

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%
No Photo

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%
Old Allangrange

Old Allangrange

Munlochy IV8 8NZ
J J Gladwin
Sunday 25 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
e
T:01463 811304 office@blackislegardendesign.com
We have an ornamental garden surrounding the house (new information discovered dates it from the 17th rather than 18th Century), and a three acre productive garden with two Keder greenhouses, designed using agroforestry and permaculture principles and gardened bio-dynamically using no-dig technique. The ornamental garden has different areas with distinctive characters. There is a parterre in front of the house with informal planting, a lower garden, an ornamental propagation garden, a mound and orchard. Hedges, (pleached lime, yew, beech, box, holly and mixed species field hedges) clipped in various styles connect the different areas of the garden. We have started to remove perimeter wire fences replacing them with log hedges and brash bunds. With a keen interest in gardening for biodiversity from the soil upwards, no chemicals have been used since our arrival in 1995. The development and improvement of the garden is ongoing.
Champion Trees: Yew and sweet chestnut.

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

Admission: £7.50, children free
Charities: Flourish 60%
Swallows Rest

Swallows Rest

Lindores KY14 6JD
Stuart & Elaine Ingram
Sunday 25 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
47
T:07703 435055 elaine.ingram@icloud.com
The current owners moved in at the beginning of 2011 to a garden of grass and weeds. Since then, beds have been hand-dug, a slope filled with dwarf conifers and heathers, a pond and small stream made, and step-over fruit trees planted. The garden also hosts many perennials, shrubs, trees and acid-loving plants. Over 50 varieties of narcissus prolong spring interest, along with many hellebores and rhododendrons.

Directions: Two miles east of Newburgh on the A913 past Den of Lindores, on the left, house with a white door with a stained glass panel of a swallow scene. The garden is opening on 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 House

Corsock, Castle Douglas DG7 3DJ
The Ingall family
Sunday 25 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c67
T:01644 440250 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%
Laidlawstiel House

Laidlawstiel House

Clovenfords, Galashiels TD1 1TJ
Mr and Mrs P Litherland
Wednesday/Thursday, 28/29 May, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
2c
Walled garden containing herbaceous border, fruit and vegetables in raised beds. There are colourful rhododendrons and azaleas as well as splendid views down to the River Tweed.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Horse Time SCIO 60%
Bonhard House

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 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 Gardens

Hospitalfield House, Westway, Arbroath DD11 2NH
Hospitalfield Trust
Saturday 31 May, 11am - 4pm (2025)
3467
info@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

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 enquiries@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

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 susheilarachan@gmail.com
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

Struanbridge

Essich Road, Inverness IV2 6AH
Marcus and Catriona Jenks
Saturday 31 May, 12pm - 5pm (2025)
247
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

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
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%
No Photo

Muckhart Open Gardens

Coronation Hall, Pool of Muckhart, Dollar FK14 7JF
The Gardeners of Muckhart Village
Saturday 31 May & Sunday 1 June, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
0c6
A collection of gardens in and around the Pool o’Muckhart and Yetts o’Muckhart, some of which have not opened previously. For a small village Muckhart boasts an enchanting variety of cottage and informal gardens displaying some of the best and most thoughtfully considered aspects of amateur gardening in this part of Scotland. From wildlife-friendly gardens and magnificent trees, to beautiful and constantly-evolving gardens where paths meander through terraced beds and ponds, and pocket-sized cottage gardens. Visitors cannot fail to be inspired by the variety of gardens, and the commitment of our gardeners.

Directions: On the A91, four miles east of Dollar. Parking at Muckhart Coronation Hall, Pool of Muckhart FK14 7JF.

Admission: £7.00, children free
Charities: Muckhart Kirk Session 20%, Coronation Hall, Muckhart 20% & Muckhart Primary School 20%
Dundonnell House

Dundonnell House

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QW
Dundonnell Estates
Saturday 31 May, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c6e7
T:07789 390028 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%
Westgate

Westgate

12 Glamis Drive, Dundee DD2 1QL
John and Frances Dent
Saturday 31 May & Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c846
This established garden, with many mature trees, occupies a south-facing site overlooking the River Tay and Fife hills. The tennis court lawn is surrounded by herbaceous plants and shrubs. A short woodland walk reveals a miniature knot garden, a bower and other surprise features. There are also rose beds and two oriental-themed water gardens. At the summer opening there will be a chance to relax with tea, cake and music . In October, all the areas will be displaying their autumn colours and, as darkness falls, they will be further enlivened by a variety of lighting techniques (torches recommended).

Directions: Buses 5, 22 or 73 from Dundee city centre. Please note there is no roadside parking on Glamis Drive. Limited disabled parking is available at the house.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Maggie Keswick Jencks Cancer Caring Centres Trust (Dundee) 60%
Elvanrock

Elvanrock

Watson Street, Banchory AB31 5TR
Margaret Owen
Saturday 31 May & Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
249
margaret.owen@gmail.com
A town garden on a south-facing slope, redesigned over five years to manage the slopes. Planned for year round colour and ease of care. The garden offers five peaceful seating areas to enjoy the cottage garden borders, surrounded by a selection of rhododendron, Cornus kousa and flowering cherries with views across the Dee Valley.

Directions: By bus, alight at either Banchory Primary school (3 minute walk along Ramsay Road) or at Banchory High Street (10 minute walk uphill via Arbeadie Terrace and Elms Rise). On street parking is available.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Blood Cancer UK 60%
Quercus Garden Plants

Quercus Garden Plants

Whitmuir Farm, West Linton EH46 7BB
Rona Dodds
Sunday 1 June, 10am - 5pm (2025)
c7
T:01968 660708 quercusgardenplants@gmail.com
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

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 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%
Geilston Garden

Geilston Garden

Main Road, Cardross G82 5HD
The National Trust for Scotland
Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c46
T:01389 849187 geilstongarden@nts.org.uk
Geilston Garden has many attractive features including the walled garden with herbaceous border providing summer colour, tranquil woodland walks and a large working kitchen garden. This is the ideal season for viewing the Siberian iris in flower along the Geilston Burn and the Japanese azaleas. 

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

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

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
14 East Brighton Crescent

14 East Brighton Crescent

Portobello, Edinburgh EH15 1LR
Jim and Sue Hurford
Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
46
sue.hurford@gmail.com
Roughly two thirds of an acre suburban garden, developed over 40 years. People have said the following about it: 'A little bit of countryside in the town', 'Booming with green', 'A bosky bower' and 'There is such a wide range of plant material and every little corner holds a new gem'.

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

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

Thorntree

Arnprior FK8 3EY
Mark and Carol Seymour
Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c6
T:01786 870710 carolseymour666@gmail.com
See the amazing views from Aberfoyle and the hills beyond to Doune. Thorntree is a cottage garden that has evolved from growing dried flowers into triangle beds to meander through with more and more plants filling in gaps! This year's task was pruning trees to make sure the sun gets through. The garden is kept with the aid of WRAGS trainees, now our 6th - they come for a year to be trained two days a week. I am so grateful to them all. I kept the garden as much as possible as the farmer's wife who lived here before had it - 33 years ago! Every year is different. In 2024 the hydrangeas all flowered so well, and roses were still in full first bloom in October. We are also usually here so come and see: just email to make sure we are not out.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Forth Driving Group RDA SCIO 60%
No Photo

Stobo Japanese Water Garden

Stobo Farm, Stobo EH45 8NX
Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
46
enquiries@stobofarmestate.com
This is a mature, secluded woodland garden created in the early 1900s. Its most prominent feature is the constant presence of water that adds to the tranquillity of the garden, beginning with the drama of a waterfall at its head through a cascade of ponds, punctuated along the way by stepping stones and bridges. The garden was brought to life when Japanese style was the height of fashion – hence its cherry trees, maples, and iconic Japanese lanterns, ‘tea house’ and humpback bridge. The azaleas and rhododendrons provide a spectacular display in the spring. Limited disabled access due to gravel paths and steps. Visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear.

Directions: Off the B712 (Peebles/Broughton road) via Stobo Castle entrance. Bus 91

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Stobo and Drumelzier Church of Scotland 20%, Firefly 20% & Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 20%
Cowhill Tower

Cowhill Tower

Holywood DG2 0RL
Mr and Mrs P Weatherall
Sunday 1 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c5d7
T:01387 720304 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. 

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

Admission: by donation
Charities: Maggie's 60%
No Photo

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 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

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 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

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 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

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn
Wednesdays only, 4 - 25 June, 1pm - 4pm. (2025)
7
T:01721 740220 rpthorburn@icloud.com
Kirkton Manor House has a delightful, three-acre, informal country garden set in the beautiful Manor Valley. It enjoys spectacular open views and calling curlews from its riverside position. Bluebells flank the impressive entrance leading to a new shrub border. Stone steps continue through to terraced slopes filled with bulbs, roses and hellebores providing height, interest and fragrance. Grass paths meander along the burn where snowdrops, blue and white camassia, meconopsis, and ligularia thrive in this sunny meadow environment. Later, in June, sisyrinchiums, irises, orchids and many flowering shrubs and roses are abundant. The natural woodland includes many interesting trees.

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

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

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 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%
Mouse Cottage

Mouse Cottage

Strathtay, Pitlochry PH9 0PG
Penny Kennedy
Friday/Saturday, 6/7 June, 10am - 4pm (2025)
3c4k
T:07799 678067 mymousecottage@outlook.com
Mouse Cottage sits on a south-facing hill overlooking Strathtay. Small but packed with interesting features, it is a semi-wild haven of secret places where self-seeders mix with annuals and more formal planting. The owner is an artist who adores her garden space and collects quirky planting containers such as dustbins and dolly tubs. Her Pear Parasol and Holly Brolly are amongst her favourite features. Gravel paths wind through shady places full of joyous surprises such as Crambe cordifolia. Self catering and B & B accommodation is available at: www.mymousecottage.co.uk

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

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

Cloan

by Auchterarder PH3 1PP
Neil Mitchison
Saturday/Sunday, 7/8 June, 10am - 5pm (2025)
267
T:07958 155831 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%
No Photo

Oatridge College Campus - SRUC

Ecclesmachan, Broxburn, West Lothian EH52 6NH
Oatridge College Campus - SRUC
Saturday 7 June, 12pm - 5pm (2025)
0c4679
T:01506 864800 gmcgillivray@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

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

Redcroft

23 Murrayfield Road, Edinburgh EH12 6EP
James and Anna Buxton
Saturday 7 June, 4pm - 7pm (2025)
3c8467
T:07989 977701 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

Coul House, Maree Way, Glenrothes KY7 6NW
Dean and Clare Ansell
Sunday 8 June & Sunday 17 August, 11am - 3pm (2025)
257
T:07525 791277 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

Laura's Wood

Hools, St. Margaret's Hope, Orkney KW17 2RH
Arthur and Laura Cromarty
Sunday 8 June, 11am - 4pm (2025)
267k9
acrom265@aol.com
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%
Westlea

Westlea

Cromarty Square, St. Margaret's Hope, Orkney KW17 2SN
Shaun Hourston-Wells
Sunday 8 June, 11am - 4pm (2025)
4
This relatively sheltered garden (by Orkney standards!), centrally placed within the village of St. Margaret’s Hope, has a wonderful, established tree backdrop. The garden demonstrates that a relatively small space can be transformed into a plant-packed paradise! Plants that are usually difficult to grow in Orkney thrive here and the lush green paths give wonderful access to a rich range of plants.

Directions: Westlea is at the top of Cromarty Square, furthest from the sea, and sits adjacent to the Cromarty Hall, in St. Margaret’s Hope (known locally as “The Hup”). Parking is available in Cromarty Square. The X1 bus (Stromness and Kirkwall, to St. Margaret’s Hope) stops right outside Westlea.

Admission: by donation
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
Ilha de Deus

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 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

Ardchattan Priory

North Connel PA37 1RQ
Mrs Sarah Troughton
Sunday 8 June, 12pm - 4pm (2025)
2c85d7
admin@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.

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

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%
No Photo

Capenoch

Penpont, Thornhill DG3 4LZ
Mr and Mrs John Gladstone
Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2467
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

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
Arbuthnott House Gardens

Arbuthnott House Gardens

Arbuthnott House, Laurencekirk AB30 1PA
Chris and Emily Arbuthnott
Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
arbuthnotthouse@gmail.com
Arbuthnott House is the seat of the Viscount of Arbuthnott, whose family has lived here since 1190. The five-acre garden was laid out in the 17th century and comprises a walled garden with some 1920s Arts and Crafts planting. Thought to be one of the oldest gardens in Scotland, it runs down a steep, south-facing slope that is divided by three main broadwalks which run horizontally and are intercepted with diagonal pathways. The vegetables and soft fruit are contained within beds which are bound by topiary, herbaceous borders, rose beds and long beds for cut flowers.

Directions: Located at the heart of Arbuthnott Estate, just off the B967 Inverbervie to Fordoun. Three miles off the A90.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: UNICEF UK: Lebanon Appeal 60%
Maggie's Edinburgh

Maggie's Edinburgh

Western General Hospital, Crewe Road, Edinburgh EH4 2XU
Maggie's Centre
Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c45
At Maggie’s we believe that gardens can have an amazing, positive effect on health and well-being. Each of our centres has a beautiful garden designed alongside the building to ensure a strong connection between the outside and inside. The garden was designed by Emma Keswick and has been adapted to grow and flourish alongside two new extensions. The walled garden and statue gardens create a connection with nature and the ever-changing seasons. Emma’s planting design ensures the garden has year-round colour and creates a calming transition away from the hospital. The garden is fully accessible for all with enclosed spaces cleverly interspersed with more open areas with longer views.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Maggie's 60%
Belhaven House with Belhaven Hill School

Belhaven House with Belhaven Hill School

Belhaven Road, Dunbar EH42 1NN
Mr and Mrs Jon Bruneau and Mr Olly Langton
Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
6
Belhaven House has four acres of formal Georgian gardens. It comprises raised herbaceous borders with topiary features for structure, beautiful abundant rose archways and a walled vegetable and fruit garden with box-edged borders. There is also a woodland area with specimen trees dating from the early 20th century and in springtime this area is carpeted with daffodils and bluebells. The garden has been associated with a succession of people interested in plants since the 19th century, most notably Sir George Taylor, a former director of Kew Gardens.
Belhaven Hill School Originally called Winterfield House, the school has retained the garden in front of the walled garden which is accessed through an ornate gate and archway and is laid to lawn with box-edged borders, some containing wildflowers. A gate from the playing field leads to the Belhaven House garden.

Directions: By car, approaching Dunbar from A1 on A1087, Belhaven House is opposite Brewery Lane on the junction with Duke Street and the school entrance is a further 300 yards past a high stone wall. Public transport — bus X7 to Dunbar from Edinburgh.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Can Do 60%
The Bishop's House

The Bishop's House

Glencairn Road, Kilmacolm PA13 4PD
The Yacoubian family
Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c46
The Bishop’s House is one of six villas in Kilmacolm designed by James Salmon in 1905. It was originally named Miyanoshta but renamed when it became the official residence of the Catholic Bishops of Paisley (1948-1993). The house is now a family home and much care has been taken in preserving the house and garden, both in landscaping and planting, which remain mostly as designed by Salmon. The house sits at the top of the garden and is framed by mature beech trees. There is a burn running down the side of the property (children should be supervised).

Directions: Please access the garden from the Glencairn Road entrance. Turn off the A761 in the centre of Kilmacolm onto Houston Road or Porterfield Road for access to the garden on Glencairn Road. Follow SGS signage. Parking on-road. McGill's buses run through Kilmacolm on the A761.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Glasgow Samaritans 60%
Elsewhere Garden

Elsewhere Garden

Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Govan Road, Glasgow G51 4TF
Shiona Blackie
Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
84579
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%
36 Muirfield

36 Muirfield

Perth PH1 1JJ
Rob Mackay and Amanda Brown
Sunday 8 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
046
T:07704 978348 mackaybrownjoint@gmail.com
A small, suburban garden with a Japanese theme. The garden was designed and planted in 2019 with the aim of being low maintenance and offering a fun and safe environment for children. The Japanese features include a stone lantern, a water bowl, the placing of rocks, raked gravel and a timber building. The planting includes prunus, acer, bamboo, hostas, ferns and flowering plants. Foliage and texture are important elements. Views of the distant hills are seen as an extension of the garden in the Japanese tradition.

Directions: Muirfield connects Muirend Road with Burghmuir Road. 36 Muirfield is the white bungalow near the junction with Muirend Road on the left-hand side as you travel up the hill. The number 8 bus from Mill Street in the centre runs every hour, alight at Fairies Road just before the junction with Viewlands Road West. Go straight over the mini roundabout continuing along Fairies Road. At the next mini roundabout turn left into Muirend Road. Muirfield is the first turning on the right with number 36 the second house on the right. If coming by car please park on Muirend Road to avoid blocking neighbours' access.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Amnesty International UK Section Charitable Trust 60%
Blair Castle Gardens

Blair Castle Gardens

Blair Atholl PH18 5TL
Blair Charitable Trust
Saturday 14 June, 9:30am - 5pm (2025)
345d7k
T:01796 481207 office@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.

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

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%
No Photo

Barrmill Community Garden

Barrmill Park and Gardens KA15 1HW
The Barrmill Conservation Group
Saturday 14 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
0c467
jean42gilbert@gmail.com
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%
Two Gardens in Banchory Devenick

Two Gardens in Banchory Devenick

Banchory Devenick AB12 5XT
Angela and Derek Townsley and Jane and Terry O'Kelly
Saturday/Sunday, 14/15 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c
T:text 07712 528450 janeokelly868@gmail.com
Pinetrees Cottage Banchory Devenick AB12 5XR (Angela and Derek Townsley): A mature garden set in three-quarters of an acre, filled with a wide range of hardy plants including rhododendrons, azaleas, acers, topiary and roses, with two ponds. An alpine house is fronted by stone troughs filled with rock plants. Set in a backdrop of mature pine trees to the north and open fields to the south.
Whin Cottage Ardoe, Aberdeen AB12 5XT (Jane and Terry O'Kelly): A cottage garden of just under half an acre surrounded by farmland. It features a border of rhododendrons and azaleas, several mixed borders, two formal rose beds, a wildlife pond and four raised beds growing a variety of vegetables and flowers for the house. The garden reflects a love of colour and structure and an interest in wildlife.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Fighting For Sight Aberdeen 60%
Rivaldsgreen House

Rivaldsgreen House

48 Friars Brae, Linlithgow EH49 6BG
Dr Ian Wallace
Saturday 14 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
467
T:07801 855146 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%
Greywalls

Greywalls

Gullane EH31 2EG
Saturday/Sunday, 14/15 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
4d
Six-acre formal garden attributed to Gertrude Jekyll, surrounding Greywalls Hotel with stunning views over East Lothian and the Forth. The garden was featured on Beechgrove in September 2015, in The English Garden in July 2019, Scottish Field in September 2019 and Country Life in September 2022. Highlights of the garden are straight and curved walls which create rooms and vistas, with radiating paths that link entrances and exits. Everywhere there are places to sit, in the sun and in the shade.

Directions: Signposted on the A198 south east of Gullane. From Edinburgh take the A1 south, then the A198 to Gullane, then last turning on the left side. From the south take the A1 north to Haddington, Gullane is signposted. Further information is on our website.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Leuchie 60%
The Gardens of Monimail Tower

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 monimailtower@posteo.uk
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

An Caorann

Abernethy, Perthshire PH2 9LG
Paul Lacey
Sunday 15 June, 12pm - 4pm (2025)
24679
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%
Learmonth Place Garden

Learmonth Place Garden

9 Learmonth Place EH4 1AX
Libby Webb
Sunday 15 June, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
249
A unique reimagining of a city-centre, mid-terrace, walled garden. The garden is only 7 x 14 metres, but contains two ponds, a pergola and is accessed by garden paths through arches. The lawn has been lifted entirely and the space is tightly planted with trees and mainly perennial plants. The effect of the garden is of a city centre woodland/cottage garden, which gives the illusion of being bigger than it is by blurring the sandstone wall boundaries.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: CHAS 40% & The Woodland Trust Scotland 20%
Edzell Village Gardens

Edzell Village Gardens

Edzell DD9 7TQ
The Gardeners of Edzell
Sunday 15 June, 1pm - 5pm, ticket price to be confirmed (2025)
2c6
Union Street, Edzell DD9 7TD (Christy Bing): A walled garden with roses and ancient apple trees.
North Lodge 36 Church Street, Edzell DD9 7TQ (Robin and Paul McIntosh): North Lodge was designed by James Salmon in the Arts and Crafts style and built as a summer home in 1906. The garden is full of mature trees and shrubs, climbers and herbaceous perennials, with numerous flowering azaleas, rhododendrons and spring bulbs.
Tillytoghills Steading, Fettercairn AB30 1YJ (Veronica and Steve Engel): A large country garden with established herbaceous borders, new shubbery borders, native trees and a large pond, as well as productive vegetable and fruit garden with free-range chickens roaming close by.
Westwater House (NEW), Edzell DD9 7TZ (Charles and Rosie Elphinstone): Formerly home to the Dalhousie Estates factor, the garden includes a walled garden, ponds, stone dykes and hedging, with flowering azaleas, rhododendrons and magnolia in a woodland setting. Fruit trees blossom in the orchard and abundant old-fashioned roses and herbaceous beds in the walled garden bloom.

Directions: Maps and tickets will be available. Check the website for details

Admission: £8.00, children free
Charities: Edzell Village Improvement Society: Garden Group 60%
Gartmore Village

Gartmore Village

Main Street, Gartmore FK8 3RW
The Gardeners of Gartmore
Sunday 15 June, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
2c6
ant@vinbay.co.uk
Several attractive and interesting medium and small gardens will be open in and around this beautiful peaceful village with splendid views. They will showcase a wide variety of planting with shrubs, roses and herbaceous borders, water features, also some vegetable gardens and fruit trees.

Directions: Gartmore Village is on a small loop road off the A81 Glasgow - Aberfoyle road, and is well signposted. It is about 4 miles from Aberfoyle.

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

Glenkyllachy

Tomatin IV13 7YA
Mr and Mrs Philip Mackenzie
Sunday 15 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
0c7
emmaglenkyllachy@gmail.com
In a magnificent Highland glen, 1200 feet above sea level, Glenkyllachy is a beautiful garden of shrubs, herbaceous plants, rhododendrons, trees, and spectacular views down the Findhorn River. There are some rare specimens and a recently planted arboretum. Rhododendrons and bulbs flower in May/June, herbaceous plants bloom through July/August with glorious autumn colours in September and October. There is a very productive vegetable garden, 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%
No Photo

Maggie's, Glasgow

Gartnavel Hospital 1053 Great Western Road Glasgow G12 0YN
Maggie's Centre
Sunday 15 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2469
T:0141 357 2269
If you, or someone you love, has been diagnosed with cancer, Maggie’s is here for you. Our centres are built in the grounds of hospitals, near to the NHS cancer centre. In every centre, you’ll find a bright and welcoming space full of the kind of support that people facing cancer need and deserve. Our centre in Glasgow is a striking, single storey building, designed by Rem Koolhaas. It is formed as a ring shape around a landscaped internal courtyard and is nestled among the woodland in the grounds of Gartnavel Hospital. The centre is a space for being together or for a moment alone, for getting going again or for meeting people who just get it. Our Cancer Support Specialists have expert knowledge about cancer and treatment. No appointment or referral is necessary, just come in. As well as expert support and guidance we also run a programme of therapeutic classes, workshops and courses. All our support is free. Lily Jencks, daughter of Maggie’s co-founders, Maggie Keswick Jencks and Charles Jencks, designed the internal courtyard plantings and the wooded glades areas surrounding the centre. 'Everything has been designed to show an enthusiasm for life and you need that when you’re fighting cancer – you need something to give you a bit of life and power.' Lily Jencks

Directions: From Great Western Road (car, bus or foot): Enter Gartnavel Hospital site and turn right at the traffic lights onto Shelley Road. Follow the yellow SGS open signs.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Maggie's: Glasgow 60%
5 Greenbank Crescent

5 Greenbank Crescent

Edinburgh EH10 5TE
Sandy Corlett
Sunday 15 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c4
T:0131 4471119 sandycorlett@hotmail.co.uk
South-facing, newly designed, sloping terraced garden with views over Braidburn Valley Park to the Pentlands. Colourful chaos of herbaceous plants, shrubs, roses and small trees. Hard features include a gazebo, pergola, greenhouse and water feature. 

Directions: From the city centre take the A702 through Morningside, continue uphill on Comiston Road, turn right at Greenbank Church on to Greenbank Crescent. Buses 5, 16, 11. 

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: NASS: Spinal Arthritis 60%
Teasses Gardens

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
events@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
No Photo

Waulkmill Garden

Sandygill, Waulkmill, Orkney KW17 2RA
Tracey Jackson
Saturday 21 June, 11am - 5pm (2025)
29
Waulkmill is a three-acre garden overlooking the sands of Waulkmill Bay. Created over the last 15 years amidst bog and heathland, the garden sits alongside Hobbister Bird reserve. The native, wild, naturalistic-style planting includes hardy plants for the windy plot and Orkney native shrubs and trees. A dipping pond, long borders and perennial planting are designed to take in the spectacular views over Scapa Flow. The St Magnus Way cuts through the land and a sculpture garden is currently under development.

Directions: From the A964 follow the signs to Waulkmill Bay. Follow the road all the way to the end and the garden is at the end of the road.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Orkney Amateur Swimming Club 60%
Beechwood

Beechwood

Broughton, Peeblesshire ML12 6HH
Susheila and James Gordon
Saturday/Sunday, 21/22 June, 11am - 5pm (2025)
267
T:07810 837068 or 01899 830443 susheilarachan@gmail.com
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%
Gardyne Castle

Gardyne Castle

by Forfar DD8 2SQ
William and Camilla Gray Muir
Saturday 21 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
06
Gardyne Castle, dating from the 16th century, is one of the most attractive small castles in Angus. After a turbulent history of battles with the neighbouring Guthries, the fortified house now sits in the centre of an enchanting garden created by its current owners over the past 21 years. To the east, the walled garden runs down to the Denton Burn. The castle’s extraordinary stone-capped turrets overlook a long, romantic double border, with herbaceous planting in front of the fruit trees trained up the wall facing a mature rose border on the other side of the gravel path. The castle’s southern front, which was extended in the 17th, 18th and early 20th centuries, is enhanced by a wisteria and overlooks a large enclosed knot garden of box, bay and yew mixed with white roses, peonies and lavender. Beyond is an immaculate formal lawn surrounded by yew topiaries and specimen trees, leading to a developing perennial wildflower meadow with a gentle path leading down through an orchard. To the north, an upper garden created since 2018, centred on a pepper pot doocot, provides an area for quiet contemplation with further yew topiary, an extended lavender border, white planting, a fishpond and the family’s collection of chickens. Beyond the formal gardens the grounds merge into mature woods with romantic walks along the Denton Burn, a range of specimen trees and some lovely naturalistic planting.

Directions: Turn off A932 at signpost to Pitmuies Garden. Go over two stone bridges and follow road uphill past small hamlet. Take first road on left. At sharp right-hand bend take private drive straight ahead (beside cream lodge).

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Guthrie Heritage SCIO 60%
Gifford Village with Gifford Bank and Broadwoodside

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%
No Photo

Brechin Gardens in June

Locations across Brechin DD9 6JL
The Gardeners of Brechin
Sunday 22 June, 12pm - 5pm (2025)
26
9 Pearse Street Brechin DD9 6JR (James Mackie): Opening in memory of its creator Irene Mackie, the well-known plantswoman whose love of plants is reflected in every inch of this beautiful, tranquil garden. There’s a secluded and rural feel to this town garden. A huge collection of ferns is a unique feature of the garden, unusually planted to mingle with other interestingly-planted colourful herbaceous plants.
Bishops Walk 11A Argyll St, Brechin DD9 6JL (Steff and Mike Eyres): A collection of acers grown successfully for years in large pots greets you as you access the unexpected door after viewing several different planting areas. You will find a hidden, walled garden planted with scented climbing and shrub roses, lavenders, perennials and evergreen shrubs and conifers including an established Wollemi, the prehistoric tree recently discovered.
Brechin Cathedral Allotments Chanonry Wynd, Brechin DD9 6EU (Will Macfarlane): Eleven varied plots reflect the interests and personalities of each plot holder and include fruit, vegetables and herbs. A unique feature is the historical ‘College Well’ used by medieval monks. 
Kirkton Cottage Aberlemno DD8 3PE (George Henry and Susan Norris): Nestled in a dip beside a stream, this country cottage garden is packed with plants. Mown grass paths meander among mature trees, shrubs and perennials in borders, island beds and rockeries. Rustic steps lead to raised vegetable beds, greenhouse and a prolific nursery area.
Latchlea 17A North Latch Road, Brechin DD9 6LE (Pamela Stevens): A new garden begun as a way of coping with bereavement. Inspired by Queen Elizabeth II saying that 'everyone should plant as many trees as possible', 100 trees are newly planted along The Old Lady Walk. Features include some fine stonework, shrubs, herbaceous plants and bulbs and also a courtyard garden.
Lower Duncraig 2 Castle Street, Brechin DD9 6JN (Jan and Andrew Crow): A densely planted, small town garden including rambling roses a small wildlife pond and a chamomile lawn.
Rosehill West 15C North Latch Road, Brechin DD9 6LF (Robert and Jenny Martin): An acre of newly-planted garden, formerly a field, featuring mature original trees, herbaceous areas, fruit trees (quince and crab apple), and a path through recently planted trees. A work in progress!
The Manse (NEW) 14 Chanonry Wynd, Brechin DD9 6JS (Martyn and Vincent De Winter): A cottage-style garden in the making. It features attractive combinations of shrubs, trees and perennials.

Directions: Most gardens are located around the town of Brechin. Look for SGS yellow signs. A map with directions will be provided with tickets. A single admission ticket gives access to all gardens.

Admission: £8.00, children free
Charities: St Andrews Scottish Episcopal Church 30% & The Attic 30%
Stockbridge Open Gardens

Stockbridge Open Gardens

Garden trail runs between Logie Green Gardens EH7 4HE and Royal Circus Gardens North EH3 6TN
Gardeners of Stockbridge
Sunday 22 June, 12pm - 4:30pm (2025)
c46
jw.homeoffice@gmail.com
Visit some of the surprising horticultural delights behind the discreet terraces of Stockbridge/New Town and relax in a classic Georgian leisure garden. Bringing fresh air and wildlife into the heart of the city, the collection provides lots of creative solutions to urban gardening with year-round interest through a mix of seasonal planting and structural evergreens which the gardeners will be on hand to talk about.

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

Admission: £8.50, children free
Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 30% & Shelter Scotland 30%
Claremont

Claremont

Redmill EH47 0JY
Trevor and Faye Yerbury
Sunday 22 June, 1pm - 4pm (2025)
23c6
info@yerburystudio.com
‘Claremont’ is situated only two minutes from J4 of the M8 and yet is an idyllic oasis. It is an eclectic garden created over 20 years; before we moved in it was just grass with a few rhododendrons. The garden has three areas, to the front are various herbaceous borders, to the side we have our hosta collection. Our garden contains over 150 Hosta’s. To the rear there are herbaceous borders, plus a stumpery/fernery created in 2022. We have three ponds, one very large, a rockery, a dovecot, newly created rose garden and interesting trees including a grand monkey puzzle. New for 2025: the stumpery has been extended over the winter.

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

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

Estir Bogside

Alyth PH11 8HU
Morag and Andrew Buist
Sunday 22 June, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
0c6
The garden was started in 1995. There are herbaceous borders, a cottage garden created three years ago with traditional plants including lupins, daylilies and foxgloves, a small rose garden and potager. In 2010 the garden was extended to adjacent land to allow planting of native trees, wildflowers, mown paths, two ponds and a glasshouse.

Directions: From Perth take the A94 to Coupar Angus and just before Meigle take the B954 and follow signs to Glen Isla for approximately 3 miles till you see Garden Open signs on the left, by the road. From Dundee take the A923 to Muirhead and then the B954 to Meigle, turn right up B954 towards Glen Isla and follow signs as above.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: MND Scotland 60%
House of Aigas and Field Centre

House of Aigas and Field Centre

by Beauly IV4 7AD
Sir John and Lady Lister-Kaye
Sunday 22 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c6ek
T:01463 782443 info@aigas.co.uk
The House of Aigas has a small arboretum of named Victorian specimen trees and modern additions. The garden consists of extensive rockeries, herbaceous borders, ponds and shrubs. Aigas Field Centre rangers lead regular guided walks on nature trails through woodland, moorland and around a loch.
Champion Trees: Douglas fir, Atlas cedar and Sequoiadendron giganteum

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

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

Altries

Maryculter, Aberdeenshire AB12 5GD
Mr and Mrs Melfort Campbell
Sunday 22 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
26
The Altries garden has been redesigned to give a feeling of space and to let in the light. The house itself is surrounded by a terraced area, borders and lawns. There is an exceptional view looking west up the River Dee, a woodland walk, a slate sphere sculpture using the original slates of the house following the refurbishment, a striking ten-foot wall making use of the down-takings of the house, a small new greenhouse with rose arbour path and further use of granite, and the original walled garden which has vegetables, fruit, and a picking garden. Each area of the garden has its own feeling of being a separate destination. Beautiful mature beech trees surround the area, giving a great sense of privacy.

Directions: From Bridge of Dee, follow the South Deeside road, B9077. Half a mile after Maryculter House Hotel, turn left at yellow SGS sign, and follow signs to car park. For SatNav follow AB12 5GJ.

Admission: £10.00, children free
Charities: River Dee Trust 60%
Rosemount

Rosemount

12 Hillhead, Bonnyrigg EH19 2AH
Brian and Yvonne Hillyard
Sunday 22 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c49
yphillyard@gmail.com
Rosemount is a large cottage garden with lawns to the front and rear of the house and a wide range of shrubs and perennial plants, as well as some mature trees, including a Parrotia Persica, a Liriodendron Tulipifera and a Eucryphia Nymansensis, and some recent additions such as a Cryptomeria, a Davidia Involucrata (handkerchief tree) and a Cornus Controversa (wedding cake tree). Other features include a greenhouse with a Black Hamburg vine, a wildlife pond, a small rockery, and a developing crevice garden. Beyond the ornamental part is a productive fruit and vegetable section. The present owners have been working since 2014 to restore and replant the garden; it is still under development.

Directions: Hillhead is the main route through Bonnyrigg (B704) and is on the no 31 bus route (alight at Broomieknowe Gardens), Rosemount is situated on the crest of the hill 100 yards to the south of this.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Scottish SPCA 60%
Tarmangie

Tarmangie

Glendevon, Dollar FK14 7JY
Sandy Fraser and Susan Whyte
Saturday/Sunday, 28/29 June, 10am - 6pm (2025)
2c89
T:07736 800356
A synthesis of cultivated land and the natural landscape. Informal 2.5 acre garden framed by the Ochil Hills and set in mature woodland and pasture. Features include approximately 70 juvenile species rhododendrons, an eclectic mix of unusual perennials, shrubs and ferns; bamboos, climbing and shrub roses, floral courtyard garden, large pond with feature water lilies and irises. An eco-friendly bug and wildlife haven, herbicide and pesticide-free, minimal dig philosophy, free-range hens, everything recycled, a garden for the free spirit.

Directions: On the A823 between Muckhart and Auchterarder, the white house next to Glendevon Parish Church, on the left hand side of the road heading north.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Ronald McDonald House Glasgow 60%
No Photo

Mill House

Lyness, Hoy, Orkney KW16 3NU
Helen Hiscoke
Saturday 28 June, 11am - 4pm (2025)
1c9
Mill House gardens are a seaside sanctuary of quiet contemplative rooms on many levels, with amazing views. The many secluded seated areas are accessed by steps, tree lined paths and walled garden routes leading around the sprawling grounds, with an array of trees, shrubs, flowers for seasonal colour and interest with formal and natural ponds attracting abundant wildlife. There is a sea front rockery overlooked by a glazed deck from where you can view Scapa Flow. The fruit and vegetable garden is home to a self-built recycled green house, a sheltered potting area, cold frames, raised beds for growing the family’s produce including a dappled shaded herb garden behind the house, all giving hours of peace and health benefits working with the steady processes of gardening.

Directions: From Lyness ferry terminal, follow signs for Emily's Tea Room for two miles, passing over a river. Mill House is on the right past Emily's.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Headway - The Brain Injury Association 60%
Struanbridge

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
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

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%
No Photo

Portmore

Eddleston EH45 8QU
Mr and Mrs David Reid
Saturday 28 June, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
0c45d7
T:07905 776894
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

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

Admission: £7.00, children free
Charities: Abundant Borders (SCIO) 60%
Morebattle Mains

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) 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%
No Photo

Newburgh - Hidden Gardens

Newburgh KY14 6AJ
Gardeners of Newburgh
Sunday 29 June, 12pm - 5pm (2025)
2c6
Hidden behind the 18th-century facades of Newburgh High Street and surrounding streets lie a jumble of wonderful old gardens, some of them dating back centuries. Many have spectacular views of the Tay Estuary. We are opening for the fifth time and, as before, the gardens will include a mixture of those which have opened previously together with some gardens opening in 2025 for the first time. Those previously opened will have been developed considerably and, as before, there will be a wide mix of flowers, vegetables, herbaceous borders, orchards and a fair few hens and ducks!

Directions: On the A913 between Perth and Cupar. There is a car park at each end of the town, with tickets and teas available nearby.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Newburgh Community Trust: Community Choir & Memorial Garden 60%
Tyninghame House and The Walled Garden

Tyninghame House and The Walled Garden

Tyninghame House, Dunbar EH42 1XW
Mrs C Gwyn, Tyninghame Gardens Ltd
Sunday 29 June, 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

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Lynton Day Centre 60%
The Doocot

The Doocot

Kinloch, Meigle, Blairgowrie PH12 8QX
Liz and George McLaren
Sunday 29 June, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
25
The house and garden sit in a two-acre site with views to the Sidlaws and Grampians. The house is a converted 18th century steading with a large doo’cot tower, completed in 2009. Garden development began in 2013 with several flowering cherries and two small herbaceous beds, and expanded in 2014 with the creation of a parterre rose garden, and the addition of shrub, herbaceous beds and areas of heather and hard planting including rhododendrons, azaleas and a variety of trees. In 2019 the garden was further developed to create seated areas and themed beds. A wildlife pond was added in 2022 and a vegetable garden is being gradually developed.

Directions: Approximately two miles west of Meigle on the A94 (towards Coupar Angus). Just before the hamlet of Longleys there is a turning to the right with a small lodge with red eaves on the roadside. Turn up that tarmac road and The Doocot is 400 metres on the right.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Strathmore Parish Church of Scotland: Glamis Church Guild 60%
Southwick House

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

Whitehouse & Grange Bowling Club

18a Hope Terrace, Edinburgh EH9 2AR
Whitehouse & Grange Bowling Club
Sunday 29 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2467
wandgbc@icloud.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

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.

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%
7 Braes of Conon

7 Braes of Conon

Conon Bridge IV7 8AX
Mr Nigel Stanton
Sunday 29 June, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
245
A beautifully-designed garden created by a professional nurseryman. Nigel Stanton moved to the Highlands in 2014. The garden needed imported local topsoil and a lot of manure. Now, with the help of raised beds and paved paths, the fruits of his endeavours are a delight. Specialities include magnificent delphiniums, rampant sweet peas and subtly blended roses.

Directions: Coming into Conon Bridge on the A862 from Muir of Ord, turn right into the Braes of Conon and follow the road signs to Number 7. From Dingwall, take the A835 towards Tore at the Maryburgh roundabout, then turn first right towards Conon Bridge, and follow the signs.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Highland Hospice: Aird branch 60%
Kirkbrae House

Kirkbrae House

Culross KY12 8JD
Sandra Bannister
Sunday 29 June, Sunday 20 July, Sunday 24 August & Sunday 21 September, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
12c467
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

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%
No Photo

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 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

Dougarie

Isle of Arran KA27 8EB
Mrs S C Gibbs
Tuesday 1 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
17
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

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn
Wednesdays only 2 - 16 July, 1pm - 4pm. (2025)
7
T:01721 740220 rpthorburn@icloud.com
Kirkton Manor House has a delightful, three-acre, informal country garden set in the beautiful Manor Valley. It enjoys spectacular open views and calling curlews from its riverside position. Bluebells flank the impressive entrance leading to a new shrub border. Stone steps continue through to terraced slopes filled with bulbs, roses and hellebores providing height, interest and fragrance. Grass paths meander along the burn where snowdrops, blue and white camassia, meconopsis, and ligularia thrive in this sunny meadow environment. Later, in June, sisyrinchiums, irises, orchids and many flowering shrubs and roses are abundant. The natural woodland includes many interesting trees.

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

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

Eddleston EH45 8QU
Mr and Mrs David Reid
Wednesdays only 2 - 30 July, 1pm - 5pm. (2025)
0c45d7
T:07905 776894
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

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

Admission: £7.00, children free
Charities: Abundant Borders (SCIO) 60%
The Walled Garden at the Hugo Burge Foundation

The Walled Garden at the Hugo Burge Foundation

Marchmont Estate, Duns, Berwickshire TD10 6YL
The Hugo Burge Foundation
every Friday from 4 July to 29 August, 12pm - 4pm, admission £7.00, children free. (2025)
269
enquiries@hugoburgefoundation.org
A recently-redeveloped walled garden in the grounds of the Marchmont Estate. Run as a space to inspire creativity as part of the Hugo Burge Foundation, a newly-formed arts charity based in the Scottish Borders. The garden contains herbaceous borders, a kitchen garden, a colonnade, wildflower meadows, cut flower borders, a sculpture collection and newly restored Mackenzie and Moncur glasshouses.

Directions: From the A6105 (Duns to Greenlaw), take the Polwarth road for 1.5 miles. From the B6460, take the Fogo turning and continue for 1.5 miles.

Admission: £7.00, children free
Charities: The Hugo Burge Foundation 60%
Bonhard House

Bonhard House

Perth PH2 7PQ
Stephen and Charlotte Hay
Saturday/Sunday, 5/6 July, 10am - 4pm (2025)
67
T:07990 574570 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 Steading

Papple, Haddington EH41 4QD
George and Eri Mackintosh
Saturday/Sunday, 5/6 July, 11am - 4pm (2025)
067k
T:07941 157785 verity.sinclair@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%
Round House

Round House

Berstane Road, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1SZ
David and Gill Newstead
Saturday 5 July, 11am - 4pm (2025)
46
Half-an-acre site (including the house) with a view towards North Isles. Established windbreak surround of mixed shrubs and trees, seven raised beds for vegetables and flowers, bog garden with huge gunnera and water-loving plants. A very large rockery, non alpine, with a path over the top. There are two small wooded areas, one with bluebells and areas of grass made over to a wildflower meadow.

Directions: There is no parking up our lane. Vehicles can be left on the verge at the top of Berstane Road and it’s a 100 metre walk from there. The town bus no 9 stops at Berstane Loan at the top of our lane.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Orkney Foodbank 60%
St Bedes and Ashludie Wildflower Garden

St Bedes and Ashludie Wildflower Garden

Monifieth DD5 4RD
Neil Burford (M: 07791851845/E: neil.burford@newcastle.ac.uk) and Scott & Barbara Lindsay (M: 07874058963/E: wl011b2275@btinternet.com)
Saturday/Sunday, 5/6 July, 11am - 4pm (2025)
0c49
Ashludie Wildflower Garden (NEW) 10 Margaret Lindsay Place, Monifieth DD5 4RD (Scott and Barbara Lindsay): Striking, small garden consisting predominantly of native wildflowers. Dedicated to attracting wildlife and helping to replace our lost meadows. A homemade bee hotel, a small pond and about 40 types of wildflower aim to attract bees, butterflies, birds and other creatures. Nectar and pollen-rich "classic" wildflowers include greater knapweed, viper's bugloss, Valerian and musk mallow. The small front garden has plants to provide pollen for our earlier emerging pollinators. Plant stall includes garden-collected seed.
St Bedes Garden (NEW) 6 Ferry Road, Monifieth DD5 4NT (Neil Burford): St Bedes is a small urban plant lovers garden on a steep slope, enclosed by stone walls. Its design reflects the distant monastic history of the site and it integrates an ecology of native and non-native drought-tolerant trees, grasses and perennials suited to the dry sandy soil of its coastal location. Over the last 17 years, the current owners have extensively landscaped the site with a series of terraces and rooms connected by a winding central path and stairs. Inspired by prairie style planting and using a matrix ecology, the garden has year-round colour, texture and formal interest, with many unusual and rare bulbs, herbaceous perennials and trees. An Arbutus menzeii is a central focus of the main space.

Directions: Ashludie Wildlife Garden: Bus 73 from Arbroath or Dundee to Monifieth Tesco. Walk up North Union Street and then Victoria Street to garden - about 15 minutes. Or bus 73A to Ashludie Hospital - about 2 minutes walk to garden. Or buses X7 and 39 to Dobbies - about 15 minutes walk to garden. St Bedes Garden: Coming from Dundee, the house is 50 yards before the pedestrian crossing at the junction of Albert Street, 500 yards west of Monifieth centre on the north side of Ferry Road. Buses 73, 73A from Dundee and Carnoustie stop near the house.

Admission: £8.00, children free
Charities: Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland 30% & Scottish Mountain Rescue 30%
Ashbrook Nursery and Garden Centre

Ashbrook Nursery and Garden Centre

Forfar Road, Arbroath DD11 3RB
Anne Webster
Saturday 5 July, 12pm - 5pm (2025)
2c4579
T:01241 873408 anne@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
Willowhill

Willowhill

Forgan, Newport-on-Tay DD6 8RA
Eric Wright and Sally Lorimore
Saturdays and Mondays in July, 1 - 5pm (2025)
c6
T:01382 542890 willowhillfife@btinternet.com
An evolving three-acre garden. The house is surrounded by a series of mixed borders designed with different vibrant colour combinations for effect in all seasons. Spectacular mix of roses, herbaceous perennials and annuals planted through the wide borders are a highlight in mid to late summer. A ‘no dig’ 160-foot border in shades of white, blue, purple and pale yellow was created in 2019/2020. The most recent addition to the garden is another ‘no dig’ border in shades of peach, burgundy, yellow, chocolate and acid yellow. Come and see! April and May for late spring bulbs and flowers; June and July for roses and high summer colour; August for late summer colour. The plant stall includes a lovely selection from the garden. Visitors are welcome to bring their own refreshments and picnic in the garden. A season ticket for all these dates, and by arrangement, is £25 plus p&p and admits the ticket holder plus guest. It comes with a limited edition of the Willowhill Garden Guide: 35 pages of beautiful photographs with descriptions of key garden features and plantings. A season ticket with booklet is a perfect gift for garden lovers for a birthday or at Christmas and do treat yourself too! Season tickets are available online at tinyurl.com/yxcj2mzy or by post (cheque for £27.76 payable to Scotland’s Garden Scheme) from Scotland's Gardens Scheme, 23 Castle Street, Edinburgh EH2 3DN.

Directions: 1.5 miles south of Tay Road Bridge. Take the B995 to Newport off the Forgan roundabout. Willowhill is the first house on the left-hand side next to West Friarton Farm Strawberry Shed.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Rio Community Centre 50%
17 Strathallan Bank

17 Strathallan Bank

Forgandenny, Perth PH2 9FE
Iain Mahon
Saturday 5 July & Saturday 12 July, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
24679
T:01738 813344 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%
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Crail: Gardens in the Burgh

Crail KY10 3UT
Gardeners of Crail
Saturday/Sunday, 5/6 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
046
Take an enjoyable stroll around this quintessential East Neuk village and explore its many beautiful gardens. These include gardens of various styles and planting schemes - cottage, historic, plantsman's and bedding. The stunning coastal location presents some challenges for planting but also allows for a great range of more tender species to flourish.

Directions: Approach the village from either St Andrews or Anstruther on the A927. Parking is available at Marketgate.

Admission: £7.00, children free
Charities: Crail Community Partnership 60%
The Gardens of Monimail Tower

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 monimailtower@posteo.uk
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

Kierfiold House, Sandwick, Orkney KW16 3JE
Fiona and Euan Smith
Sunday 6 July & Sunday 20 July, 11am - 4:30pm (2025)
67
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%
Glebe House

Glebe House

Main Street, Urquhart IV30 8LG
Melanie Collett
Sunday 6 July, 12pm - 3pm (2025)
6
mel.collett2015@outlook.com
Early 19th-century formal walled garden of the former manse by Alexander Forteath, also incorporating a unique doocot in its construction of clay dab. The garden consists of colourful herbaceous borders within the walled garden and box hedge symmetry. A wide variety of roses together with an orchard and kitchen garden area to the south.

Directions: Off the main street in Urquhart, find the walled entrance at the end of the street. Follow parking signs.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund 60%
Bruckhills Croft

Bruckhills Croft

Rothienorman, Inverurie AB51 8YB
Paul and Helen Rushton
Sunday 6 July, 12pm - 5pm (2025)
6a
T:01651 821596 helenrushton1@aol.com
An informal country cottage garden extending to three-quarters of an acre with a further acre as wildflower meadow and pond. There are several distinct areas which include a white border, a butterfly alley, kitchen garden with Polycrub, greenhouse and fruit cage, an orchard, and a blue and yellow border. Relax on one of the many seats in the garden and soak up the atmosphere. Awarded National Collection status for Galanthus (snowdrops) in 2021.
National Plant Collection: Galanthus

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: SMG: Scotia Medical Group 60%
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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

77 Kirk Brae

Edinburgh EH16 6JN
Michael Brown and Angela Casey
Sunday 6 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2457
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

Haugh Garden

College of Roseisle IV30 5YE
Gwynne and David Hetherington
Sunday 6 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c67
T:01343 835790 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%
Blanerne

Blanerne

West Road, Charlestown KY11 3EW
Lesley and Geoff Fenlon
Saturday/Sunday, 12/13 July & Saturday 16 August, 11am - 4pm (2025)
46
lesleyabloomer@gmail.com
South-facing hidden village garden with lots of paths to follow and many places to sit, both sunny and shaded. The centrepiece of the garden is a large oval pond with wildlife-friendly planting. Surrounding the pond are several mini-gardens including a rose courtyard garden with catmint, salvias, beech, false indigo and featuring a bubble fountain. There is also a vegetable patch, woodland, a shady courtyard and a summerhouse garden enclosed by a young purple beech/wild rose hedge.

Directions: Driving: follow signs from the A985 into Charlestown. Follow the road until you see the village shop, The Sutlery, available for takeaway all day Saturday and Sunday mornings - these can be eaten in the garden. Parking is behind the Charlestown Workshop, next to the shop. Cycling: National Route76 passes about 20m from the house. Public transport: bus 6/6A from Dunfermline. Alight at The Green in Charlestown, walk towards the shop. Walk west about 20m along West Road. Turn left down the tarmac driveway opposite 10 West Road, the garden is on the right hand side at the end.

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

Parkvilla

47 Schoolhill, Ellon AB41 9AJ
Andy and Kim Leonard
Saturday 12 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
246
T:07786 748296 andy.leonard@btinternet.com
A south-facing Victorian walled garden, lovingly developed from a design started in 1990 to give colour and interest all year. Enjoy densely planted herbaceous borders, pause under the pergola clothed in clematis, honeysuckle and rambling roses, continue on to the bottom of the garden where three ponds and wildflower beds reflect a strong focus on wildlife. This is a hidden gem of a garden that has won awards including Ellon Best Garden and with plants rarely seen in north-east Scotland. Parkvilla was featured as Garden of the Week in Garden News in 2024.

Directions: From centre of Ellon head north towards Auchnagatt. Schoolhill is third left. From Auchnagatt head into Ellon along Golf Road, Schoolhill is first right after the golf course. Limited on-street parking, car parks in Ellon (five minutes walk) and Caroline's Well Wood. Public toilets in Ellon town centre.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Ellon Men's Shed 20%, Alzheimer Scotland 20% & St Mary On The Rock Episcopal Church Ellon 20%
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Amat

Amat Lodge, Ardgay IV24 3BS
Jonny and Sara Shaw
Saturday/Sunday, 12/13 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
36e7
T:07712 266500 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

The Bield at Blackruthven

Blackruthven House, Tibbermore PH1 1PY
The Bield Christian Co Ltd
Saturday 12 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c57
T:01738 583238 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

Carolside

Earlston TD4 6AL
Mr and Mrs Anthony Foyle
Sunday 13 July, 11am - 5pm (2025)
45a7
T:01896 849272 info@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%
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Lanark Town Gardens

Waterloo Road. Lanark ML11 7QH
The Gardeners of Lanark Town
Sunday 13 July, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
2c469
Opening this year are six gardens in Waterloo area of Lanark town. The easily walked route provides an eclectic mix of gardens. Some of the highlights on offer include a miniature orchard, an extensive rock garden with a collection of alpines, a colourful partially-walled garden with a focus on wildlife and a remodelled garden with interest and surprises. Homemade teas can be enjoyed in the colourful surrounds of the bowling club.

Directions: Waterloo Road is a ten minute walk from Lanark railway station and a five minute bus ride from the adjacent bus interchange.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Maggie's 60%
Gallery

Gallery

Gallery House, Montrose DD10 9LA
Caroline and Alan Macdonald
Sunday 13 July, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
25
A mid-18th century walled garden in the grounds of an A-listed Laird's House. The garden retains historic features, such as the paths intersecting at the listed 1786 sundial at the centre, and a fine stone carving of a recumbent retriever over the gate. Gallery’s garden was redesigned and replanted in 1999 with a formal layout consisting of 'rooms', including a white garden, rose garden, gold garden and summer lawn. The colourful herbaceous borders, clipped hedges and closely-mown lawns contribute to a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere. Gallery's grounds include a new orchard of crab apple and prunus, laid out in a grid, with paths mown through a meadow of spring bulbs and wildflowers

Directions: Take the Hillside turn off the A90. Turn left towards Gallery. The entrance to the parking area is through the third gate on your left (marked Gallery Home Farm, it will be signposted). Alternatively, if you are coming from Montrose, turn off the A937 just before Marykirk.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: APOPO 30% & Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 30%
Dalbeattie Community Allotments Association

Dalbeattie Community Allotments Association

Port Road, Dalbeattie DG5 4AZ
Dalbeattie Community Allotments Association
Sunday 13 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
067
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%
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Kiltarlity Gardens

Kiltarlity, Beauly IV4 7JH
Sheila Ross, Laura Evans, Dickon and Barbara Sandbach & Sue Marshall
Sunday 13 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c6
Aird View 30a Camault Muir, Kiltarlity IV4 7JH (Sheila Ross): The garden at Aird View offers a mix of borders, a water feature, an arbour and a newly-added herbaceous border. There are also fruit trees and vegetable beds. Vintage tractors on display.
Buchollie House (NEW) Buchollie House, Boblainy, Kiltarlity IV4 7HX (Sue Marshall): Buchollie House has an informal but varied woodland garden of about one acre. It incorporates herbaceous borders, raised vegetable beds, and a shaded glade planted with rhododendrons and azaleas, as well as more natural areas and a wildflower patch. There is a large wildlife pond and the garden attracts a huge variety of woodland birds and animals. It is a good example of a large garden that is relatively easy to manage and maintain.
Highland Liliums 10 Loaneckheim, Kiltarlity IV4 7JQ (Laura Evans): Highland Liliums is a working retail nursery with spectacular views over the Beauly valley and Strathfarrar hills. A wide selection of home-grown plants are available including alpines, ferns, grasses, herbaceous, herbs, liliums, primulas and shrubs.
Monarda House Kiltarlity, Beauly IV4 7HX (Dickon and Barbara Sandbach): An evolving, productive garden with a mix of ornamental and native plantings over four acres. An easy circuit, in proximity to the house on even paths, displays a variety of conifers, shrubs and herbaceous plants, with a summer house. A wider circuit, for which stouter footwear is recommended, includes raised vegetable beds, polytunnel, chicken run, a young orchard, nuttery and mature woodland, with a pine-lined avenue up to the fledgling arboretum. Beyond is a rough-pathed area of regenerative wood, wildflower meadow, mature trees and willow coppice, to the old stable apiary, returning along a track sided with ornamental cherries.

Directions: Aird View: Take the A833 Beauly to Drumnadrochit Road, pass Brockies Lodge. Turn right at the bus shelter and follow the single track road to the junction at the school. Turn left and go up the hill to the top, at the junction Aird View is on the right.  Buchollie House and Monarda House: From the A833 Beauly to Drumnadrochit road, turn into Kiltarlity. Drive through the village, over a small bridge, then take the first left to Clunevackie. Continue for approx one mile where you will see Buchollie House on the left side of road. Disabled parking is available at the house, but main parking approx 200 metres further up the hill at Monarda House which is on the right hand side of the road after it bears left ahead of a forestry track. What3words: valuables.teaches.brave. Highland Liliums is signposted from Kiltarlity Village.

Admission: £8.00, children free
Charities: Highland Hospice: Aird branch 60%
SWG3 Community Garden

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%
Balcarres

Balcarres

Colinsburgh KY9 1HN
The Earl and Countess of Crawford and Balcarres
Sunday 13 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
245d
T:01333 340205 (Estate Office)
Set on the south-facing slopes of Fife, with spectacular views over the Firth of Forth, Balcarres Garden is a summer haven welcoming visitors to explore its natural beauty. In July, the Rose Garden will be in full bloom, showcasing a mixture of David Austin shrub roses, hybrid tea, and floribunda varieties, offering a stunning display of colour and fragrance. Alongside the roses, the herbaceous borders will be alive with vibrant phlox, geranium, alstromeria, veronicastrum, aconitum, astrantia, campanula, nepeta, eryngium, macleaya, thalictrum, telekia and lythrum. The herbaceous borders, with their generous and informal planting style, offer a delightful contrast to the structure and formality of the lower terrace. Framed by magnificent 200-year-old yew hedges, the terrace provides a stunning architectural backdrop that enhances the natural beauty of the garden. Visitors will also enjoy the rich foliage along Mary's Walk and Chapel Walk, together with Jim's Grove, its woodland character a further must-see for plant enthusiasts. Balcarres Garden offers a perfect retreat for a summer's day.

Directions: Half-a-mile north of Colinsburgh off A942. Bus to Colinsburgh.

Admission: £7.50, children free
Charities: Children 1ST: for a family holiday in East Neuk 30% & Colinsburgh Community Trust Ltd: for Colinsburgh Community Gardens 30%
Douneside House

Douneside House

Tarland AB34 4UD
The MacRobert Trust
Sunday 13 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c867k
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

Amisfield Walled Garden

Haddington EH41 3TE
Amisfield Preservation Trust
Saturday(10am - 3pm)/Sunday(11am - 3pm), 19/20 July (2025)
2857
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%
Beith Community Gardens

Beith Community Gardens

Beith Community Centre, Kings Road KA15 2BQ
The Gardeners of Beith Community
Saturday 19 July, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
2c59
Beith Community Food Garden (NEW) : An allotment growing edible and useful plants, together with those beneficial to pollinators. We are into our third year of project, are funded by Arran CVS, and have built a beautiful oasis of colour, mindfulness space and creative hub. The garden was awarded a Keep Scotland Beautiful Level 4 this year.
Beith Orr Park Neighbourhood Watch Community Garden (NEW) : A Keep Scotland Beautiful Level 5 - Outstanding community garden built on a derelict gap site at the junction of Main Street with Wilson Street. Created over ten years ago and well established with many unique features.
The Wee Potager at the Cross (NEW) : This is a free food and flower garden in curved feature beds in front of Beith Auld Kirk. We grow most of our produce using organic and no dig methods. Inspired by Hidden Gardens and Incredible Edible Network

Directions: Come to Beith and park in or near Beith community centre car park on Kings Road where Beith Community Food Garden is located. The other two gardens are within easy walking distance.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Neighbourhood Watch Scotland SCIO: Beith Orr Park Neighbourhood Watch 20% to The Wee Potager at the Cross 40% & Beith Community Association SCIO: Beith Community Food Garden 20%
Kinnordy Walled Garden

Kinnordy Walled Garden

Kinnordy House, Kirriemuir, Angus DD8 5ER
Mary Gifford
Saturday 19 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2579
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

Kailzie Gardens

Peebles EH45 9HT
Susan and Steve Plag
Sunday 20 July, 10am - 4pm (2025)
3c6ed7
T:01721 720682
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

Directions: A mile east of Peebles on the B7062.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website
Charities: Tweed Togs SCIO 60%
Tarland Community Garden

Tarland Community Garden

Tarland, Aboyne AB34 4ZQ
The Gardeners of Tarland
Sunday 20 July, 12pm - 4pm (2025)
25
Tarland Community Garden opened in 2013 and is a Tarland Development Group project. It provides an inclusive and accessible community growing space for local residents. It has indoor (polytunnel) and outdoor raised beds for members based on availability, plus communal planting areas including a soft fruit cage, fruit trees and a herb garden. It is a place for members to grow produce, learn, share and have fun.

Directions: Take the B9094 from Aboyne or the A96 and B9119 from Aberdeen. Arriving at the village square the gardens will be clearly signposted.

Admission: £4.00, children free
Charities: Tarland Development Group 60%
Duns Open Gardens

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%
Claremont

Claremont

Redmill EH47 0JY
Trevor and Faye Yerbury
Sunday 20 July, 1pm - 4pm (2025)
23c6
info@yerburystudio.com
‘Claremont’ is situated only two minutes from J4 of the M8 and yet is an idyllic oasis. It is an eclectic garden created over 20 years; before we moved in it was just grass with a few rhododendrons. The garden has three areas, to the front are various herbaceous borders, to the side we have our hosta collection. Our garden contains over 150 Hosta’s. To the rear there are herbaceous borders, plus a stumpery/fernery created in 2022. We have three ponds, one very large, a rockery, a dovecot, newly created rose garden and interesting trees including a grand monkey puzzle. New for 2025: the stumpery has been extended over the winter.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Marie Curie 60%
No Photo

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 Gardens

Airlie Castle, Airlie, By Kirriemuir, Angus DD8 5NG
David and Tarka Airlie
Sunday 20 July, 2pm - 6pm (2025)
2c7k9
T:01575 530387 office@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%
No Photo

Lochwinnoch Road Gardens, Kilmacolm

Kilmacolm PA13 4DY
Cameron Nicol, Rosemary Nott and Rachel Horne
Sunday 20 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c469
Three residents of the beautiful village of Kilmacolm join to showcase a variety of planting ideas including perennial herbaceous borders, structural evergreens, topiary and colourful annuals.
Garden 1 (Cameron Nicol)At the entrance stands a magnificent Copper Beech tree and this established garden has other mature trees and shrubs, mixed herbaceous borders and collection of beautiful roses and clematis.
Garden 2 (Rosemary Nott) A traditional villa with delightful cottage-style border planted with mixed shrubs and perennials interspersed with bulbs and summer annuals for all-year-round interest.
Garden 3 (Rachel Horne) A 1970s house planted at the front and side with a variety of structural evergreens. The garden to the rear of the house is planted in a different style with borders filled with colourful perennials and annuals and many different hydrangeas as well as a Cytisus battandieri.

Directions: Lochwinnoch Road is in the centre of Kilmacolm and the gardens will be signed on the day with yellow SGS signs

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Ardgowan Hospice 30% & Médecins Sans Frontières 30%
Kings Grange House

Kings Grange House

Castle Douglas DG7 3EU
Christine and Peter Hickman
Sunday 20 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
26
T:07787 535889
An extensive garden surrounded by mature trees and shrubberies, with views to the south west over the surrounding countryside. Originally Victorian, the garden is being restored by the present owners with a colourful variety of herbaceous mixed borders, beds and rockeries. There are snowdrops in February and banks of daffodils and a carpet of white narcissus in the lawns and around the pergola in springtime.

Directions: Take the B794 north off the A75, two miles east of Castle Douglas. Kings Grange House is approximately one mile on the left. 

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Marie Curie 30% & RNLI 30%
Earth House Apothecary Gardens

Earth House Apothecary Gardens

Pityoulish House, Pityoulish PH22 1RD
Dianne Dain and Salem Avan
Saturday 26 July, 10am - 7pm (2025)
067k9
contact@ph-22.com
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

16 Mulla

Voe, Shetland ZE2 9XQ
Linda Richardson
Saturday/Sunday, 26/27 July, 10:30am - 4:30pm (2025)
47
T:07765 037516 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 House

Skelbo, Dornoch IV25 3QG
Alison Bartlett
Saturday/Sunday, 26/27 July, 11am - 4pm (2025)
c7
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%
The Pines

The Pines

Southwood Road, Troon KA10 7EL
Cheryll and Alasdair Cameron
Saturday/Sunday, 26/27 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
04
pinesopengarden@gmail.com
In nine years our one-acre plot has been transformed from a barren children’s playground with only mature pine trees and rhododendrons, to a colourful seaside garden. Our exposed coastal situation causes windburn in many supposedly hardy plants, so we have formed a windbreak for the borders with mixed shrubs including griselinia, hawthorn and photinia. Billowing grasses sit alongside perennials including helenium, euphorbia and agapanthus, all interspersed with tulips, lilies and alliums. The coastal theme is accentuated by cordyline, phormium, Fatsia japonica and eucalyptus. We have bark woodland paths, and our garden is a haven for birds, bees and butterflies.

Directions: From the A77 at Dutch House Roundabout, follow the A78 and then the A79, then immediately right to Troon on the B749. Southwood Road is first left and The Pines is the last property. Stagecoach X14 passes the property.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: The Ayrshire Hospice 60%
Milton of Finavon House

Milton of Finavon House

Forfar DD8 3PY
Saturday 26 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
0c857
enquiries@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
Pitlochie House

Pitlochie House

Gateside KY14 7SQ
George and Fay Orr
Sunday 27 July, 10am - 6pm (2025)
2c6
T:07730 135953
This established garden has year-round interest. A restoration project with quirky features, characters and surprises! Comprising lots of different areas, the garden is carpeted in spring with snowdrops, daffodils, camassia and then bluebells. Following on there are over 140 varieties of hosta, plus heuchera, hellebores, roses, clematis, and lilies. There are formal herbaceous borders within two walled gardens, hedges, woodland, shaded planting, glass house, fruit trees, rhododendrons and azaleas. And pots of all description in every available corner.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Gateside And District Community Association 60%
15 Fairfield Road

15 Fairfield Road

Broughty Ferry, Dundee DD5 1NX
Aileen Scoular
Sunday 27 July, 12pm - 5pm (2025)
0c4679
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%
Mollan

Mollan

Thornhill, Stirling FK8 3QJ
Iain and Ruth Howieson
Sunday 27 July, 12pm - 4pm (2025)
2c85
Mollan is a large, 3-acre garden in rural Stirlingshire set in softly rolling farmland. The garden is designed as a series of smaller interlocking gardens, each with a distinct character, packed with rich, colourful planting and meandering paths. There is a formal lawn, a wildflower meadow, two ponds and a productive kitchen garden.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Thornhill Playgroup & Toddlers 60%
No Photo

Langwell

Berriedale KW7 6HD
Welbeck Estates
Sunday 27 July, noon - 4pm (2025)
67
T:01593 751278 / 751237 caithness@welbeck.co.uk
A beautiful and spectacular old walled garden with outstanding borders situated in the secluded Langwell Strath. Charming wooded access drive with a chance to see deer. 

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: RNLI 60%
Covington Mill Farmhouse

Covington Mill Farmhouse

Covington Road, Thankerton, Biggar ML12 6NE
Sharon Pearson
Sunday 27 July, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
3c46
T:07827 236771 sharon.pearson69@outlook.com
Set amongst 8 acres, the gardens have been transformed since 2019 from pastureland to a landscape of woodlands, wildlife habitats, formal gardens and recently, a prairie-inspired garden. A restored watermill building and lade runs through the whole area, creating a meditative backdrop to the matrix and drift planting schemes surrounding them.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: The Linda Norgrove Foundation 60%
West Linton Village Gardens

West Linton Village Gardens

West Linton EH46 7EW
West Linton Village Gardeners
Sunday 27 July, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
2c6
T:01968 660669 j.bracken101@gmail.com
A varied and interesting selection of gardens around the centre of the village. Bank House is an unusual and structured garden designed over 30 years by a non-gardener (he was however a 'spade monitor' at primary school). Also included are a walled manse garden in a beautiful riverside setting and two horticultural enthusiasts' gardens in sheltered positions.

Directions: About 15 miles south-west of Edinburgh, take the A701 or A702 and follow signs. Bus 101 or 102 to Gordon Arms Hotel.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Perennial 30% & Ben Walton Trust 30%
House of Aigas and Field Centre

House of Aigas and Field Centre

by Beauly IV4 7AD
Sir John and Lady Lister-Kaye
Sunday 27 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c6ek
T:01463 782443 info@aigas.co.uk
The House of Aigas has a small arboretum of named Victorian specimen trees and modern additions. The garden consists of extensive rockeries, herbaceous borders, ponds and shrubs. Aigas Field Centre rangers lead regular guided walks on nature trails through woodland, moorland and around a loch.
Champion Trees: Douglas fir, Atlas cedar and Sequoiadendron giganteum

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Highland Hospice: Aird branch 60%
No Photo

Craigentinny Telferton Allotments

Telferton Road, off Portobello Road, Edinburgh EH7 6XG
The Gardeners of Craigentinny and Telferton
Sunday 27 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c846
ctallotments@gmail.com
Established in 1923, this independent allotment site is a tranquil and charming space, hidden away in a built-up area, where the local community benefit from growing their own vegetables and fruit. Come and enjoy tea, home baking and a chat with our friendly plot-holders.

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

Admission: £4.00, children free
Charities: Craigentinny Telferton Allotments 60%
No Photo

The Quoy of Houton

Orphir, Orkney KW17 2RD
Dr Colleen Batey
Sunday 27 July, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
346
An unusual, historic, walled panoramic garden with 60-foot rill which leads the eye to the spectacular coastal views of Scapa Flow. Carefully planted to withstand winds in excess of 60 mph, with floral interest from March to September. Winner of Gardeners' World Britain’s best challenging garden 2017 and listed in the top ten UK coastal gardens. Featured on Beechgrove and in the book Island Gardens.

Directions: From Orphir take the turning to Houton Ferry at the first junction signed Quoy of Houton, turn right by the car park. Park here and walk 10 minutes along the coastal road around the bay to the gardens. The gardens are a 10-minute walk from the bus stop. There is limited parking at the garden, available on a first come first serve basis.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: The Peedie Retreat [SCIO] 60%
Tomandroighne

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

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 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%
Willowhill

Willowhill

Forgan, Newport-on-Tay DD6 8RA
Eric Wright and Sally Lorimore
Saturdays & Mondays in August, 1 - 5pm (2025)
c6
T:01382 542890 willowhillfife@btinternet.com
An evolving three-acre garden. The house is surrounded by a series of mixed borders designed with different vibrant colour combinations for effect in all seasons. Spectacular mix of roses, herbaceous perennials and annuals planted through the wide borders are a highlight in mid to late summer. A ‘no dig’ 160-foot border in shades of white, blue, purple and pale yellow was created in 2019/2020. The most recent addition to the garden is another ‘no dig’ border in shades of peach, burgundy, yellow, chocolate and acid yellow. Come and see! April and May for late spring bulbs and flowers; June and July for roses and high summer colour; August for late summer colour. The plant stall includes a lovely selection from the garden. Visitors are welcome to bring their own refreshments and picnic in the garden. A season ticket for all these dates, and by arrangement, is £25 plus p&p and admits the ticket holder plus guest. It comes with a limited edition of the Willowhill Garden Guide: 35 pages of beautiful photographs with descriptions of key garden features and plantings. A season ticket with booklet is a perfect gift for garden lovers for a birthday or at Christmas and do treat yourself too! Season tickets are available online at tinyurl.com/yxcj2mzy or by post (cheque for £27.76 payable to Scotland’s Garden Scheme) from Scotland's Gardens Scheme, 23 Castle Street, Edinburgh EH2 3DN.

Directions: 1.5 miles south of Tay Road Bridge. Take the B995 to Newport off the Forgan roundabout. Willowhill is the first house on the left-hand side next to West Friarton Farm Strawberry Shed.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Rio Community Centre 50%
39 Nantwich Drive

39 Nantwich Drive

Edinburgh EH7 6RA
Michael and Susan Burns
Saturday/Sunday, 2/3 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
34
Large wildlife-friendly garden run on organic principles. Includes mini orchard, pond, mixed borders, greenhouse and a secret garden. There are mini woodland walks and an allotment for vegetables, plus a compost area, worm bin and rotary bin. 

Directions: Bus 19 to Craigentinny Road or bus 26 to Kekewich Drive. 

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: The Henry Doubleday Research Association : Garden Organic 60%
Silverburn Village

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

2 Durnamuck

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QZ
Will Soos and Susan Pomeroy
Sunday 3 August, 11am - 4pm (2025)
2c7k
T:07789 390028 sueandwill@icloud.com
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%
No Photo

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%
Byreburnfoot House

Byreburnfoot House

Byreburnfoot DG14 0XB
Paul and Julie Taylor
Sunday 3 August, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
2c6k9
T:01387 371967 julie@byreburnfoot.house
When we moved here in the Autumn of 2020, we began redesigning and developing the garden. Today you'll find mostly young planting, plus areas of mature trees. Besides garden paths with arches, a rose crown and a pergola, the individual garden areas boast attractive mixed borders interspersed with conifers, shrubs and trees for interest in every season. You'll also see areas dedicated to fruit and vegetable production along with a small polytunnel. We've recently added some gravelled areas around the site with a variety of pots. All the garden areas have seating, some with tables and parasols.

Directions: Do not follow SatNav! Byreburnfoot House can only be accessed via Canonbie. At the bridge over the River Esk in Canonbie, turn on to the no through road with 20mph sign. We are situated on the right, about a mile along this lane.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Canonbie School 60%
Naturally Useful, Marcassie Farm

Naturally Useful, Marcassie Farm

Rafford, Forres IV36 2RH
Karen Collins
Sunday 3 August, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
67
T:01309 675052 karen@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

Drummond Castle Gardens

Muthill, Crieff PH7 4HN
Grimsthorpe & Drummond Castle Trust Ltd
Sunday 3 August, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
2857
T:01764 681433
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%
Hunter's Tryst

Hunter's Tryst

95 Oxgangs Road, Edinburgh EH10 7BA
Jean Knox
Sunday 3 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c4
T:07708 653584 jean.knox@blueyonder.co.uk
Well-stocked and beautifully designed, mature, medium-sized town garden comprising herbaceous and shrub beds, lawn, fruit and some vegetables, water features, seating areas, trees and an example of cloud pruning. This is a wildlife-friendly garden that has been transformed from a wilderness 40 years ago and continues to evolve. In 2017 two raised beds were added to the front garden. This hidden treasure of a garden was featured on Beechgrove in June 2015 and on The Instant Gardener in June 2016.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Lothian Cat Rescue 30% & St.Columba’s Hospice Care 30%
Glenbervie House

Glenbervie House

Drumlithie, Stonehaven AB39 3YA
Mr and Mrs A Macphie
Sunday 3 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c6
The nucleus of the large garden at Glenbervie is the traditional Victorian walled garden. It slopes south east for 1½ acres, divided essentially into four sections, including vegetables punctuated by annuals, roses and lawn, surrounded by fruit and perennials. At the top of the garden is an extensive heated greenhouse, well worth exploring. A lovely woodland garden can be found in other parts of the garden, also around the house, lawns with herbaceous and shrub borders.

Directions: Drumlithie one mile. Garden is 1½ miles off the A90. 

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 60%
Old Allangrange

Old Allangrange

Munlochy IV8 8NZ
J J Gladwin
Sunday 3 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
e
T:01463 811304 office@blackislegardendesign.com
We have an ornamental garden surrounding the house (new information discovered dates it from the 17th rather than 18th Century), and a three acre productive garden with two Keder greenhouses, designed using agroforestry and permaculture principles and gardened bio-dynamically using no-dig technique. The ornamental garden has different areas with distinctive characters. There is a parterre in front of the house with informal planting, a lower garden, an ornamental propagation garden, a mound and orchard. Hedges, (pleached lime, yew, beech, box, holly and mixed species field hedges) clipped in various styles connect the different areas of the garden. We have started to remove perimeter wire fences replacing them with log hedges and brash bunds. With a keen interest in gardening for biodiversity from the soil upwards, no chemicals have been used since our arrival in 1995. The development and improvement of the garden is ongoing.
Champion Trees: Yew and sweet chestnut.

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

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

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 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
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Portmore

Eddleston EH45 8QU
Mr and Mrs David Reid
Wednesdays only 6 - 27 August, 1pm - 4pm. (2025)
0c45d7
T:07905 776894
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

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

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
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%
New Lanark Roof Garden

New Lanark Roof Garden

Mill 2, New Lanark World Heritage Site, Lanark, S Lanarkshire ML11 9DB
New Lanark World Heritage Site
Saturday/Sunday, 9/10 August, 12pm - 4pm, admission £5.00, children free. Additionally, refreshments will be available from the Visitor Attraction cafe. Admission to the Roof Garden is also available all year round as part of our Visitor Attraction admission: https://newlanark.digitickets.co.uk/tickets (2025)
3k9
T:01555 661345 trust@newlanark.org
Created on the 9,000 square feet of roof on one of our mill buildings, our amazing Roof Garden is the largest of its kind in Scotland and is one of our visitor highlights. It is open to visitors all year round and is the perfect location to enjoy a spectacular bird's-eye view of the surrounding natural scenery and the historic village. It is maintained with the generous support of our volunteers. Designed by Douglas Coltart, the garden and viewing platform offer splendid, seasonally changing views. The garden's patterns of gentle curves and swirls, reflect the turning arc of the great water-wheels which once powered the cotton-mills, and the flowing lines of the threads moving through the historic machinery as the yarn was spun, twisted, wound, and woven. Plants were chosen which would be able to stand the high winds experienced at 350 feet above sea level - yew, hornbeam, thistle, allium, and honeysuckle. In 2025, the garden is 17 years old and is in the process of being replanted in line with the original plans. The Roof Garden is part of the New Lanark World Heritage Site, and will be accessible via the Hotel on the specific open days

Directions: New Lanark is one mile south of Lanark and around an hour from Glasgow (M74/A72) and Edinburgh (A70). From the south, the village is 30 mins from M74 Junction 13/Abington - main trunk road to Edinburgh.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: COVEY 50%
Cotton of Craig

Cotton of Craig

Kilry, Blairgowrie PH11 8HW
Nick Joy and Nici Rymer
Saturday/Sunday, 9/10 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
67
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

Cloan

by Auchterarder PH3 1PP
Neil Mitchison
Sunday 10 August, 10am - 5pm (2025)
267
T:07958 155831 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

Braehead Community Garden

Broom Road, Braehead FK7 7GU
Nikki Thomas, Development Officer
Sunday 10 August, 11am - 4pm (2025)
2c57
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 Mill

Dalswinton DG2 0XY
Colin and Pamela Crosbie
Sunday 10 August, 11am - 5pm (2025)
3c7
T:01387 740070 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%
Heatherwick Farm

Heatherwick Farm

Kintore, Inverurie AB51 0UQ
Lucy and Joe Narducci
Sunday 10 August, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
2c5
Our garden is mainly open and spacious but with distinct zones created over the last decade to serve different purposes. By summer 2025 we hope to have finished a dedicated herb garden with ambitions of Mediterranean vibes. Densely-packed perennial borders dominate in the front, while an evergreen shrubbery occupies the back. Our busy, rustic vegetable garden is designed to be pretty as well as productive and the apple orchard and wild paddock are meant for wandering. With its open nature and many seats, the garden is accessible to all.

Directions: Please use postcode AB51 0RQ for SatNav and the location as per the map on Scotland's Gardens Scheme's webpage. From Inverurie centre, take the B9001 southwards. At the corner of St Mary's Place and St James's Place follow signs for Keithhall. Then follow signs for Balbithan. Heatherwick is signposted and on the left after Hogholm Stables. It is three miles from the centre of Inverurie.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Myeloma UK 60%
North Newton Farm

North Newton Farm

Kilmacolm PA13 4TE
Carole Cameron
Sunday 10 August, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
2c67
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%
Fernlea Garden

Fernlea Garden

Corvisel Road, Newton Stewart DG8 6LW
Mrs Jenny Gustafson
Homemade teas available on 10th August. Teas can be provided for 'by arrangement' visitors (2025)
2c6
T:07909 951885/ 01671 638273 floralbasket@proton.me
A secluded town garden of a third-of-an-acre, it was created in 2006 to complement a new house. There are many rare and unusual trees and shrubs. Two herbaceous borders, one with hot colours and the other pastels. A Chinese-inspired corner, small pond, fruit trees including a Galloway pippin apple and soft fruit. The upper part of the garden is hidden behind a tall beech hedge, where there is a summer house and adjacent woodland planting. 

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: GDI: red squirrels, East Wigtownshire 60%
The Milton of Campsie Community Garden

The Milton of Campsie Community Garden

Antermony Road G66 8DB
Sunday 10 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
c9
T:07958 760169
The community garden in Milton of Campsie is the creation of one man, covering roughly an acre of hillside beside the Glazert Water. A small beach area where otters and kingfishers can be spotted, is a great place for children to play at the water's edge or for water-loving dogs. The garden was conceived as a memorial garden and as you walk through the willow tunnel to the various sections you will come across memorandum and dedications. With no shortage of relaxing seating areas you can sit and enjoy the children's lawn (created for the local nursery) complete with a miniature gypsy caravan with inside fittings, or the ancient ruin with its chimney and barbecue. Children will enjoy running over the two bridges that cross the water lily pond (they may even spot a newt). The variety and ingenuity make this an unmissable garden.

Directions: From Kilsyth and Kirkintilloch follow signs to Milton of Campsie and then follow the yellow SGS signs.

Admission: by donation
Charities: Cancer Research UK 60%
No Photo

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 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

Bannockburn House Gardens

Stirling FK7 8EY
Bannockburn House Trust
Sunday 17 August, 10am - 4pm (2025)
2c67
T:07980284027 gardens@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

Glensaugh Lodge, Fettercairn, Laurencekirk AB30 1HB
Donald and Sue Barrie
Sunday 17 August, 1:30pm - 4:30pm (2025)
c7
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%
No Photo

Glenarn Plant Sale

Glenarn Road, Rhu, Helensburgh G84 8LL
Michael and Sue Thornley
Sunday 17 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c6
Magnolias, rhododendrons, maples, meconopsis and other ericaceous plants raised by cuttings from Glenarn plants or from specialist seed exchanges plus lots of other interesting plants. Homemade scones and teas will be served.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Rhu and Shandon Parish Church of Scotland: Tower Appeal 50%
No Photo

Kirklands

Saline KY12 9TS
Peter and Gill Hart
Sunday 17 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c467
T:07787 115477 peter@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%
Grow Cook Inspire

Grow Cook Inspire

125 Ormonde Avenue, Netherlee, Glasgow G44 3SN
Helen Cross
Sunday 17 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
8469
Join Scottish presenter, school gardening champion and author Helen Cross in her own garden on the southside of Glasgow, which inspired her first book, Grow Cook Inspire. Helen's small but mighty garden, is a haven for wildlife and biodiversity and her garden illustrates that you don't have to have acres of land to be able to grow a wide range of fruit, vegetables, cut flowers and also have space to entertain friends and family. It is a garden jam packed with personality, colour and vibrancy and you'll leave feeling uplifted come rain or shine.

Directions: Park on Ormonde Avenue or Ormonde Drive. Enter through the back gate, via the back lane, opposite from Netherlee and Stamperland Church. Follow the SGS yellow road signs.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website
Charities: Scottish Action for Mental Health 60%
Dundonnell House

Dundonnell House

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QW
Dundonnell Estates
Thursday 21 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
6e7
T:07789 390028 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

Quercus Garden Plants

Whitmuir Farm, West Linton EH46 7BB
Rona Dodds
Sunday 24 August, 10am - 5pm (2025)
c7
T:01968 660708 quercusgardenplants@gmail.com
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

Old Melrose

near Melrose TD6 9DF
William and Frankie Younger
Sunday 24 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
247k9
T:07811 389551 frankie.younger@btinternet.com
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

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%
Whitburgh House Walled Garden

Whitburgh House Walled Garden

Pathhead, Midlothian EH37 5SR
Mrs Elizabeth Salvesen
Sunday 24 August & Tuesday 26 August, 2:30pm - 5pm (2025)
035
eesal39@gmail.com
This contemporary, stylish one-acre walled garden, over 700 feet above sea level, is a lively forward-looking and unexpected gem. The solidity and graphic quality of clipped foliage act as a foil for the many perennials, grasses, annuals, fruit and vegetables. A spiral path leads through an acre of white birches. There is also a variety of ponds and fine sculptures spread around 14 acres of policies. Whitburgh garden has featured recently in Country Life and RHS ‘The Garden’ as well as other publications.

Directions: From the north - a half mile south of Pathhead on the A68 turn left and follow the SGS signs. From the south - one mile north of Blackshiels on the A68 turn right at the sign to Fala Dam and follow SGS signs. Whitburgh House is about two miles from either turn off and south east of Pathhead. 

Admission: £7.00, children free
Charities: Horatio's Garden 60%
Little Sparta

Little Sparta

Stonypath, Dunsyre ML11 8NG
Pantea Cameron
Tuesday 26 August & Tuesday 2 September, 1pm - 4pm (2025)
T:01899 810711 contact@littlesparta.org.uk
Little Sparta is Ian Hamilton Finlay’s greatest work of art. Ian and Sue Finlay moved to the farm of Stonypath in 1966 and began to create what would become an internationally acclaimed garden across seven acres of a wild and exposed moorland site. Collaborating with stone carvers, letterers and other artists and poets, the numerous sculptures and artworks created by Finlay explore themes as diverse as the sea and its fishing fleets, our relationship to nature, classical antiquity, the French Revolution and the Second World War. Individual poetic and sculptural elements, in wood, stone and metal, are sited in relation to carefully structured landscaping and planting. Please note that there is a 700m uphill walk from the car park and livestock grazing in the fields. For visitors with limited mobility, it may be possible to book a space near the house; call the garden for details.

Directions: Check www.littlesparta.org.uk/visit/ for directions.

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website
Charities: Little Sparta Trust 60%
Glenkindie House

Glenkindie House

Glenkindie, Alford AB33 8ST
Christopher and Camille Bently
Friday 29 August, 10am - 2pm (2025)
26
Glenkindie House is a 16th-century castle remodelled in the 1900s. The walled gardens are laid out in the Victorian Arts & Crafts style with herbaceous borders, a magnificent rhododendron shrubbery, specimen trees and rose beds. There is a fine collection of 19th-century yew topiary depicting teddy bears, chess pieces and characters from Alice in Wonderland. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll around the pond to view the 17th-century dovecot.

Directions: On the A97 Alford/Strathdon road, 12 miles west of Alford. Entrance to Glenkindie House is through the main gates, free parking available near the gardens.

Admission: £10.00, children free
Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 60%
Carnoustie's Tropical Garden

Carnoustie's Tropical Garden

28 Prosen Bank, Carnoustie DD7 6GX
Colin Wilson
Saturday 30 August, 1pm - 5pm (2025)
246
A small tropical garden hidden in Carnoustie. You’ll find a small collection of palms, including the spectacular Brahea armata, 'Mexican Blue Palm', Chamaerops humilis cerifera, Trachycarpus fortunei, Trachycarpus wagerianus and Chamaerops vulcano. You’ll also be met by a stunning circular wall with a Brazilian slate seat to keep you cosy under the tree ferns, Musa basjoo, Tetrapanax papyrifer Rex and bamboos. The garden has elegant curves at every turn creating a botanical wonderland. A jungle curved path is surrounded by the tree ferns, Fatsia japonica and Zebra grasses. At the journey’s end you’ll find a beautiful Betula jacquemontii, Schefflera taiwaniana, tree ferns, Colocasia Pink China in a hidden sun trap patio, accessed through the enchanting moon gate.

Directions: Buses 73 & 73C from Dundee/Arbroath. Prosen Bank is found by a path via Newton Road. No parking in Prosen Bank. Parking at football pitches on Newton Road or in adjacent streets.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 60%
Quinn Garden

Quinn Garden

41 Morningside Drive, Edinburgh EH10 5LZ
Mrs Elizabeth Quinn
Saturday 30 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c469
With its tranquil, oasis-like atmosphere, our family garden offers a peaceful escape from city life. In just two years, we've transformed this space from a concrete wasteland into a vibrant haven for both people and wildlife. Wander through areas alive with roses, dahlias, and verbena bonariensis, or find a cozy spot under the pergola to enjoy the sights and sounds of bees, butterflies, and birds. A beautiful wildlife pond attracts newts and frogs, adding to the garden's natural charm. During your visit, enjoy homemade cakes and explore a plant sale to take a piece of the garden home with you. A perfect place to relax and unwind, this little sanctuary invites you to pause and enjoy nature's beauty.

Directions: Buses 5,11,15,16,23,36. There is some on street parking.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Craigmillar Literacy Trust 60%
No Photo

Horatio's Garden

National Spinal Unit, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Govan Road, Glasgow G51 4TF
Horatio's Garden
Sunday 31 August, 1pm - 4pm (2025)
2845
chelsea.lowe@horatiosgarden.org.uk
Carefully created by acclaimed garden designer and RHS Judge, James Alexander-Sinclair, Horatio’s Garden Scotland opened in 2016 and nurtures the wellbeing of people affected by spinal injury from across the whole of Scotland, their loved ones and NHS staff. The gardens provide a peaceful horticultural haven. Horatio’s Garden Scotland features a half acre woodland garden awash with striking seasonal blooms and framed by a beautiful collection of Betula pendula trees, as well as artfully planted borders, vibrant courtyard garden, gorgeous garden room, fragrant glasshouse and much more. There’s plenty to explore in this thoughtful, therapeutic garden; one which rarely opens to the public and is unusually nestled right in the heart of a Greater Glasgow & Clyde NHS hospital.

Directions: From the east or west of the city: on the M8 motorway to Junction 25, follow signs for the Clyde Tunnel (A739) for ¾ mile, then follow signs for the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Turn left into Govan Road and the hospital is on the left. From north of the River Clyde: go through the Clyde Tunnel (A739) and follow signs for the hospital. Please look at our website for the hospital estate map for directions to the garden and available parking.

Admission: £7.00, children free
Charities: Horatio's Garden 60%
3 Millhall

3 Millhall

Shore Road, Kirkcudbright DG6 4TQ
Mr Alan Shamash
Sunday 31 August, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
7
T:01557 870352 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 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

Corbet Tower

Morebattle, near Kelso TD5 8AQ
Bridget Fraser
Saturday 6 September, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
067
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

Fairnielaw

Athelstaneford, North Berwick EH39 5BE
Alison Johnston
Sunday 7 September, 11am - 4pm (2025)
467
T:07747 862841 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 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 benmore@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

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
No Photo

Fife Plant Sale at St Andrews Botanic Garden

St Andrews KY16 8RT
St Andrews Botanic Garden
Sunday 28 September, 10:30am - 1pm (2025)
5
The famous Fife Autumn Plant Sale returns to St Andrews Botanic Garden. A fabulous selection of bare-root and potted plants, the vast majority grown locally in Fife and donated by our generous garden openers. This is a unique opportunity to give your established border a facelift at seriously knockdown prices or, if you are creating a newer garden, this is the place to find all the plants you need and which have been proven to flourish in local conditions. The 2025 sale will include a stall selling tulip bulbs.

Directions: The garden is located on The Canongate, situated a 10 minute walk from the town centre. Follow the signs from the town down Viaduct Walk, which is a shared path for cyclists and pedestrians. The 99C bus route goes past the garden and takes 5 minutes from the town centre. Free parking at the Botanics and in nearby streets.

Admission: £3.00, children free
Charities: St Andrews Botanic Garden Trust 50%
Dawyck Botanic Garden

Dawyck Botanic Garden

Stobo EH45 9JU
A Regional Garden of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Sunday 5 October, 10am - 5pm (2025)
3c6ead
T:01721 760254
Dawyck is a regional garden of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh which had its 350th anniversary in 2020. Stunning collection of rare trees and shrubs. With over 300 years of tree planting, Dawyck is a world-famous arboretum with mature specimens of Chinese conifers, Japanese maples, Brewer’s spruce, the unique Dawyck beech and sequoiadendrons from North America which are over 150 feet tall. Bold herbaceous plantings run along the burn. Range of trails and walks. Fabulous autumn colours.
National Plant Collection: Larix spp. and Tsuga spp
Champion Trees: Numerous

Directions: Eight miles south-west of Peebles on the B712. 

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

Westgate

12 Glamis Drive, Dundee DD2 1QL
John and Frances Dent
Saturday/Sunday, 11/12 October, 3pm - 7:30pm (2025)
2c846
This established garden, with many mature trees, occupies a south-facing site overlooking the River Tay and Fife hills. The tennis court lawn is surrounded by herbaceous plants and shrubs. A short woodland walk reveals a miniature knot garden, a bower and other surprise features. There are also rose beds and two oriental-themed water gardens. At the summer opening there will be a chance to relax with tea, cake and music . In October, all the areas will be displaying their autumn colours and, as darkness falls, they will be further enlivened by a variety of lighting techniques (torches recommended).

Directions: Buses 5, 22 or 73 from Dundee city centre. Please note there is no roadside parking on Glamis Drive. Limited disabled parking is available at the house.

Admission: by donation
Charities: Dr Graham's Homes Kalimpong (UK) 60%
Mellerstain

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 enquiries@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

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 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

Burgie Arboretum

Between Forres and Elgin IV36 2QU
Hamish Lochore
Open daily, 8am - 5pm (2025)
b7
T:01343 850231 hamish@burgie.org
A rare opportunity to see a sizeable woodland garden/arboretum in its infancy. It has a good collection of rhododendrons, Sorbus, alder, birch and Tilia but also includes many unusual trees from around the world. The arboretum is zoned into geographic areas and species type. It includes a Japanese Garden, bog garden, bog wood, loch and quarry garden. First created in 2005 and is ongoing. Most plants are grown from hand-collected seed and propagated in the Georgian greenhouse.

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

Admission: by donation
Charities: World Horse Welfare 30% & Sandpiper Trust 30%
Glenapp Castle

Glenapp Castle

Ballantrae, Girvan KA26 0NZ
Mr Paul Szkiler
Open daily, dawn - dusk (2025)
6ed7
T:01465 831212 info@glenappcastle.com
The 36-acre grounds at Glenapp Castle are secluded and private. Many rare and unusual plants and shrubs can be found, including magnificent specimen rhododendrons. Paths meander round the azalea pond, through established woodland leading to the wonderful walled garden with a 150-foot Victorian glasshouse. Fresh herbs and fruit from the garden are used every day in the castle kitchen. Much of the gardens were designed by Gertrude Jekyll (1843-1932), the world-famous garden designer, applying the principles of the Arts and Crafts Movement, who worked in collaboration with Edwin Lutyens. A new walk has been created opening up the Glen, where Glenapp’s Champion Trees will be found. 
Champion Trees: Abies cilicica, Cercidiphyllum japonicum and Picea likiangensis

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

Admission: by donation
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Angus's Garden, Barguillean

Angus's Garden, Barguillean

Taynuilt PA35 1HY
The Josephine Marshall Trust
Open daily, 9am - dusk (2025)
7k
T:01866 822333 info@barguillean.co.uk
Created in 1957 as a memorial garden by Betty Macdonald of Barguillean for her son Angus, this picturesque nine-acre woodland garden is set around the tranquil shores of Loch Angus in historic Glen Lonan. Whilst famous for its extensive collection of hybrid rhododendrons and azaleas, this glorious garden cleverly retains the natural atmosphere of the landscape. Visitors can enjoy an informal network of paths, lined with spring flowering shrubs and bulbs, through native woodland and by shoreland whilst surrounded by the magnificent views of Ben Cruachan and the mountains of Glen Etive. This unspoilt natural setting attracts a wide range of wildlife, and the eleven-acre loch is home to swans and ducks. On the north-west side of the garden overlooking the loch stands Betty's bell paying tribute to her 40 years of work creating this magical garden. The garden reaches its full glory between April and the end of June but is a place of special tranquillity and charm at all times of the year. Three marked, circular walks from the car park taking between 30 minutes and 1.5 hours. Not suitable for wheelchairs.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: SSAFA Forces Help 60%
King's Park Walled Garden

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
contactus@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

Ardmaddy Castle

by Oban PA34 4QY
Mr and Mrs Archie Struthers
Open daily, 9am - 6pm (2025)
c57k
T:01852 300353 minette@ardmaddy.com
The gardens lie in a truly spectacular setting in the centre of a horseshoe bay, sheltered by mixed mature wooded hills and the castle atop a volcanic mound. The 18th-century walled garden has been much restored and improved over the last 50 years, hence its well-earned reputation as a plantsman's garden for all seasons.
In addition to the magnificent rhododendron collection, it is now also home to many rare and unusual shrubs and plants. These all sit alongside productive fruit and vegetable beds, all given formal structure by dwarf box hedges . The walled garden is flanked by shrub lined avenues bordering the burn, leading to woodland walks and a water garden. Don't miss the 60 foot Hydrangea petiolaris on Lady Murray's Walk and the towering stand of gunnera next to the ponds. The latest additions in an always-evolving garden are new medicinal herb beds and 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

Ardkinglas Woodland Garden

Cairndow PA26 8BG
Ardkinglas Estate
Open daily, dawn - dusk (2025)
6ed7k
T:01499 600261
In a peaceful setting overlooking Loch Fyne, the garden contains one of the finest collections of rhododendrons and conifers in Britain. This includes the mightiest conifer in Europe - a silver fir - as well as many other Champion Trees. There is a gazebo with a unique scriptorium based around a collection of literary quotes. For younger visitors, the garden features a Fairy Trail, Gruffalo Trail and Snakey Slide. It is a VisitScotland 3-star garden.
Champion Trees: The mightiest conifer in Europe and others.

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

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

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)
c57
T:01463 741698 shop@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

Raasay Walled Garden

Isle of Raasay IV40 8PB
Raasay Community
Open daily, 9am - 7pm (2025)
c67
T:07939 106426 raasaywalledgarden@gmail.com. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram
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
Achnacloich

Achnacloich

Connel, Oban PA37 1PR
Mr T M Nelson
Open daily, 10am - 4pm (2025)
6dk
T:01631 710223 or Gardener David Field 07929 336217 davefield6@hotmail.co.uk & cassandhu@gmail.com
The 20-acre woodland garden overlooking Loch Etive has been planted over the last century with a wide range of trees and shrubs from Asia, China, Japan, North America, Chile and New Zealand. Many have grown to considerable size. The light woodland canopy consists of native oaks and a number of magnificent 150-year-old Scots pines and European larch. Amongst these are open glades, carpeted with bluebells and numerous other bulbs. Two ponds and streams are planted with primulas, iris species, lysichitum, and astilbes. The woodland contains innumerable species of rhododendron and azalea, of which the triflorums and yunnanense are outstanding. Amongst these are species of acer, betula, camellia, cercidiphyllum, cornus, crinodendron, drimys, embothrium, enkianthus, eucryphia, hoheria, magnolia, malus, nothofagus, pieris, sorbus, stewartia, telopea and viburnum. Beside the house is a giant Douglas fir from Douglas' original introduction. One of the first Dawyck beeches stands beside the drive. Fine autumn colours.

Directions: On the A85 two miles east of Connel. The car park is at the bottom of the drive.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support 60%
Cambo Gardens

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)
b3c5ea7
T:01333 451040 hello@cambogardens.org.uk
Best known for snowdrops (mail order February), but exciting throughout the year, this Victorian walled garden features constantly evolving, magnificent herbaceous borders featuring rare and unusual plants, many of which are propagated for sale at Cambo. The garden is renowned too for its tulips and a stunning rose collection. Outside the main garden an inspiring Winter Garden and North American Prairie continue to be developed. Woodland walks to the sea.
National Plant Collection: Galanthus
Champion Trees: Bundle Beech

Directions: A917 between Crail and St Andrews.

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

Ardtornish

by Lochaline, Morvern PA80 5UZ
Mrs John Raven
Open daily, 10am - 6pm (2025)
867k
Ardtornish Estate spreads out around Loch Aline, a huge, wooded, U-shaped bay, a natural haven. Wonderful gardens of interesting mature conifers, rhododendrons, deciduous trees, shrubs and herbaceous plantings, set amid magnificent scenery. Much of the garden is covered by native birch, alongside extensive planting of exotic species, under mature groups of larch, firs and pine, whose strong form and colour complement the pink sandstone towers and gables of Ardtornish House.

Directions: Three miles from Lochaline along the A884.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
The Hidden Gardens

The Hidden Gardens

25a Albert Drive, Glasgow G41 2PE
The Hidden Gardens Trust
Please check the garden's website for up-to-date opening details and events. (2025)
3c846
T:0141 433 2722 info@thehiddengardens.org.uk
The multi-award winning gardens have been designed to reflect the legacy of this historic site as well as the ever-changing character and needs of the local area. The north to south borders echo the layout of the site when it was a nursery in the 1800s, supplying trees and shrubs to major gardens in Scotland, whilst the retained tramlines and the chimney reflect its industrial past. A number of artworks are integrated into the overall design, for example Alec Finlay’s Xylotheque, a library of wooden books detailing 17 native Scottish trees. The Hidden Gardens is an independent charity offering learning and social activities and opportunities for the whole community to participate in its development. It is a calm, green space where you can relax away from the busy city streets: take a meditative walk along the square route path around the formal lawn; brush past the aromatic herb border; admire the white wall border with its herbaceous plantings and espalier fruit trees; stroll through the wildlife area; connect with nature in the woodland glade; and enjoy the naturalistic planting of the grassy or wild flower meadows or buy some young plants propagated here. Volunteer-led guided tours are available to book during most of the year, for free.

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

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
The Japanese Garden at Cowden

The Japanese Garden at Cowden

Dollar, Clackmannanshire FK14 7PL
Cowden SCIO
Mainly open throughout the year from 10:30am - 5pm but you should check the garden website for winter closures and changes to opening times. (2025)
3c6d
sales@cowdengarden.com
Created in 1908, The Japanese Garden at Cowden is listed as an important example of its type in Western Europe. Nestled beneath the Ochil Hills the seven-acre garden wraps around a large pond. Enjoy the meandering walk by the water, taking in the changing scenes created by sculpted landforms, carefully placed stones, clipped shrubs and original stone lanterns. Picnic area, woodland, shop and cafe. Please check the garden's website for all admission information.

Directions: The entrance to the garden is from the Upper Hillfoots Road, about half a mile west from the junction with the A91. 

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

Mellerstain

Mellerstain House and Gardens, Gordon TD3 6LG
Gill Harrop, Administrator
Open daily, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
67
T:01573 410225 enquiries@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
Inverness Botanic Gardens

Inverness Botanic Gardens

Bught Lane, Inverness IV3 5SS
Pamela Sutherland
3 January - 21 December, 9:30am - 4pm (2025)
b3c846
T:01463 701019 inverness.botanics@highlifehighland.com
We are the most northerly botanic gardens in the UK and host a wide variety of plants, shrubs and trees with year-round interest. There is a large Tropical House and a Cactus House with plants from around the globe. In spring come to see our bulb displays, in summer our herbaceous borders and specimen trees, in autumn for late herbaceous and leaf colour and in winter for evergreens, specimen trees in flower and those with wonderful bark. The GROW Project is also housed within our gardens which is run by a special needs group, it has an allotment, herbaceous borders, wildflower areas, ponds, children's play areas and much, much more! There is a lovely cafe onsite serving soups, sandwiches and cakes alongside local artworks and plants. We are a charity and so the entry is free with donation boxes to be found inside the cafe.

Directions: From Inverness city centre follow signs to Drumnadrochit. Then follow the brown signs to the Leisure Centre (turn left at the Cemetery before the canal).

Admission: by donation
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Gordon Castle Walled Garden

Gordon Castle Walled Garden

Fochabers, Moray IV32 7PQ
Angus and Zara Gordon Lennox
Please check the garden's website for seasonal opening details (2025)
3c85d7
T:01343 612317 info@gordoncastlescotland.com
At almost eight acres in size, Gordon Castle has one of the oldest and largest walled gardens in Britain. Lovingly restored to its former glory with a modern design by award-winning designer Arne Maynard, this beautiful garden is overflowing with vegetables, fruit, herbs, and cut flowers. The 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.

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

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

Abriachan Garden Nursery

Loch Ness Side IV3 8LA
Mr and Mrs Davidson
1 February - 30 November, 9am - 7pm (2025)
bc467
T:01463 861232 info@lochnessgarden.com
This is an outstanding garden with over four acres of exciting plantings with winding paths through native woodlands. Seasonal highlights include snowdrops, hellebores, primulas, meconopsis, hardy geraniums and colour-themed summer beds. Views over Loch Ness.

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

Admission: £4.00, children free
Charities: Highland Hospice 60%
Logan Botanic Garden

Logan Botanic Garden

Port Logan, by Stranraer DG9 9ND
A Regional Garden of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Open daily 1 March - 15 November, 10am - 5pm (4pm in November). Admission details can be found on the garden's website. (2025)
3c45ea
T:01776 860231 logan@rbge.org.uk
Logan Botanic Garden lies at the south-western tip of Scotland, unrivalled as ‘Scotland’s Most Exotic Garden’. Warmed by the Gulf Stream, a remarkable collection of southern hemisphere plants flourish, making this a plantsman’s paradise. Logan enjoys an almost subtropical climate where the garden's avenues and borders feature a spectacular and colourful array of half-hardy perennials. The garden is warmed by the Gulf Stream which enables plants from Australia, New Zealand, South and Central America and Southern Africa to thrive. Voted ‘Best Garden in the UK’ 2021, Logan promises a delightful day out for all.
National Plant Collection: Gunnera, Leptospermum, Griselinia, Clianthus and Sutherlandia
Champion Trees: Polylepis and Eucalyptus

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

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website
Charities: Board Of Trustees Of The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh 60%
Abbotsford

Abbotsford

Melrose TD6 9BQ
The Abbotsford Trust
1 March - 31 December, March, November and December 10am - 4pm, 1 April - 31 October 10am - 5pm. (2025)
3c457
T:01896 752043 enquiries@scottsabbotsford.co.uk
The garden was designed by Sir Walter Scott with advice from artists, architects and friends. It is a rare surviving example of a Regency garden layout and completely different from the English landscape garden style of Capability Brown. Scott’s garden aims to provide a harmonious transition between the luxury and comfort of the interiors of the house with wonders of nature in the wider estate through a series of secluded, richly detailed and sheltered ‘rooms’. In its day it would have showcased the latest plants discovered from around the globe, both in its borders and ‘stove houses’. Regular tours are held exploring Scott’s vision for the garden and the hidden meanings of its design. Check the Abbotsford website for details.

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

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

Kinlochlaich Walled Garden

Appin PA38 4BD
Miss F M M Hutchison
3 March - 31 October, 10am - 4pm (2025)
c45k
T:07881 525754 fionakinlochlaich@gmail.com
Octagonal walled garden incorporating a large Nursery Garden Centre with a huge variety of plants growing and for sale. Bluebell woodland walk and spring garden. Many rhododendrons, azaleas, trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants, including many unusual ones such as embothrium, davidia, stewartia, magnolia, eucryphia and tropaeolum. A quarter of the interior of the walled garden is borders packed with many unusual and interesting plants, espaliered fruit trees, and with an ancient yew in the centre, and another quarter is vegetable growing.

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

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

Braco Castle

Braco FK15 9LA
Mr and Mrs M van Ballegooijen
12 March - 31 October, 10am - 5pm (2025)
5d
T:01786 880437
A 19th-century landscaped garden with a plethora of wonderful and interesting trees, shrubs, bulbs and plants. An old garden for all seasons that has been extensively expanded over the last 35 years. The partly-walled garden is approached on a rhododendron and tree-lined path featuring an ornamental pond. Spectacular spring bulbs, exuberant shrub and herbaceous borders and many ornamental trees are all enhanced by the spectacular views across the park to the Ochils. From snowdrops through to vibrant autumn colour, this garden is a gem. Look out for the embothrium in June, hoheria in August, eucryphia in September and an interesting collection of rhododendrons and azaleas with long flowering season.

Directions: Drive for 1½ miles from the gates at the north end of Braco Village, just west of the bridge on the A822. Parking at the castle is welcome.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: The Woodland Trust Scotland 60%
Demonstration Garden

Demonstration Garden

Royal Mile EH1 2NG
Demonstration Gardeners
This is a demonstration page (2025)
9
This is a demonstration garden.

Directions:

Admission: by donation
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
Knock Newhouse

Knock Newhouse

Lochgair PA31 8RZ
Mrs Hew Service
20 March - 30 September, 10am - 4pm (2025)
2c467
T:01546 886628 corranmorhouse@aol.com
Like all good gardens, it has evolved over time. The garden is centred on a 250-foot lochan, a small waterfall and lily pond. The first trees and rhododendrons were planted in the 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%
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Glenarn

Glenarn Road, Rhu, Helensburgh G84 8LL
Michael and Sue Thornley
21 March - 21 September, dawn - dusk (2025)
46ed7
T:01436 820493 masthome@btinternet.com
Glenarn survives as a complete example of a ten-acre garden which spans from 1850 to the present day. There are winding paths through miniature glens under a canopy of oaks and limes, sunlit open spaces, a vegetable garden with beehives, and a rock garden full of surprise and season-long colour. The famous collections of rare and tender rhododendrons and magnolias give way in midsummer to roses rambling through the trees and climbing hydrangeas, followed by the starry white flowers of hoherias and eucryphias to the end of the season. There is a Silent Space at the top of the garden with views over the Gareloch.
Champion Trees: Notably Magnolia rostrata

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Amma : Birth Companions (SCIO) 50%
Inveraray Castle Gardens

Inveraray Castle Gardens

Inveraray PA32 8XF
The Duke and Duchess of Argyll
27 March - 29 September 10am - 5pm & 2 October - 27 October 10am - 4pm (2025)
146d
T:01499 302203 manager@inveraray-castle.com
With Inveraray Castle as an imposing backdrop, the sixteen acre garden has formal, meadow, park and woodland areas and is one of the most important designed landscapes in Scotland. The formal gardens consist of vivid green manicured lawn; the Flag Borders, historically laid out in the shape of the St Andrew’s cross; a spectacular rose garden and herbaceous borders. A number of significant trees, including notable specimens of Magnolia acuminata and Oxydendrum arboreum, provide structure and form in this section of the garden. Colour is abundant from April until well into the autumn. The wildflower meadow is managed with native flora and fauna in mind and links the formal and informal parts of the garden. The carpet of fragrant bluebells is a feast for the senses throughout the spring, following straight on from thousands of narcissi. With views over Loch Fyne and the majesty of the West Highlands, the garden holds numerous rhododendrons, hydrangeas and other plants known to flourish in the Argyll climate.

Directions: Inveraray is 60 miles north of Glasgow and 45 miles from Oban. Regular bus services from Glasgow, Oban and Campbeltown. SatNav PA32 8XF.

Admission: £10.00, children free
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Blair Castle Gardens

Blair Castle Gardens

Blair Atholl PH18 5TL
Blair Charitable Trust
28 March - 31 October, 9:30am - 5pm (2025)
345d7k
T:01796 481207 office@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.

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 Hotel Garden

Crinan PA31 8SR
Mrs N Ryan
29 March - 31 October, dawn - dusk (2025)
1467k
T:01546 830261 macdonaldart.crinan@gmail.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%
No Photo

Norby

Burnside, Sandness, Shetland ZE2 9PL
Mrs Gundel Grolimund
1 April - 31 December, dawn - dusk (2025)
4
T:01595 870246 gundel.g5@btinternet.com
A small but perfectly-formed garden and a prime example of what can be achieved in a very exposed situation. Blue painted wooden pallets provide internal wind breaks and form a background for shrubs, climbers and herbaceous plants, while willows provide a perfect wildlife habitat. There are treasured plants such as Chionochloa rubra, pieris, Chinese tree peonies, a selection of old-fashioned shrub roses, lilies, hellebores and grasses from New Zealand. There is also a lovely selection of interesting art and textiles in the house.

Directions: Head north on the A970 from Lerwick then west on the A971 at Tingwall. At Sandness, follow the road to Norby, turn right at the Methodist Church, Burnside is at the end of the road. Bus 10 Sandness - Walls. 

Admission: £4.00, children free
Charities: Survival International 60%
An Cala

An Cala

Ellenabeich, Isle of Seil PA34 4RF
Mrs Sheila Downie
1 April - 31 October, 10am - 6pm (2025)
46d7
A wonderful example of a 1930s designed garden, An Cala sits snugly in its horseshoe shelter of surrounding cliffs. A spectacular and very pretty garden with streams, waterfall, ponds, many herbaceous plants as well as azaleas, rhododendrons and cherry trees in spring. Archive material of Thomas Mawson’s design was found recently and is available to visitors.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 30% & Cancer Research UK 30%
Dunvegan Castle and Gardens

Dunvegan Castle and Gardens

Isle of Skye IV55 8WF
Hugh Macleod of Macleod
1 April - 15 October, 10am - 5:30pm (last entry 5pm) (2025)
3467
T:01470 521206 info@dunvegancastle.com
Any visit to the Isle of Skye is incomplete without enjoying the wealth of history and horticultural delights at award-winning 5* Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, now an RHS partner garden. The five acres of formal gardens began life in the 18th century. In stark contrast to the barren moorland and mountains which dominate Skye's landscape, the Castle's Water Garden, Round Garden, Walled Garden and woodland walks provide an oasis for an eclectic mix of flowers, exotic plants, shrubs and specimen trees, framed by shimmering pools fed from waterfalls. After visiting the Water Garden with its ornate bridges and islands replete with colourful plants along the riverbanks, wander through the elegant formal Round Garden. The Walled Garden, formerly the Castle's vegetable garden, now has a diverse range of plants and flowers completing the attractive features, including a water lily pond, garden museum, 17th century lectern sundial, glass house and the 'Dunvegan Pebble', a rotating 2.7 ton Carrara marble sculpture. The informal areas of the garden are kept wild to encourage wildlife, creating a more natural aesthetic framed by the coastal scenery. The present Chief, Hugh MacLeod, and his dedicated team of gardeners, continue to build on this unique legacy for future generations to enjoy.

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

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

Tinnisburn Plants

Upper Millsteads, Canonbie DG14 0RY
Helen Knowles
1 April - 31 August (Friday, Saturday & Sunday), 10am - 4pm (2025)
a7
T:07544 373815 helen@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

Pitmuies Gardens

House of Pitmuies, Guthrie, by Forfar DD8 2SN
Jeanette and Ruaraidh Ogilvie
1 April - 30 September, 10am - 5pm (2025)
6d7
T:01241 828245 ogilvie@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.

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

Attadale

Strathcarron IV54 8YX
Joanna Macpherson
1 April - 31 October, 10am - 5pm (2025)
3c67k
T:01520 722217 info@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%
Monteviot

Monteviot

Jedburgh TD8 6UQ
The Marchioness of Lothian
1 April - 31 October, 12pm - 5pm (2025)
5d
T:01835 830380
A series of differing gardens displaying rose and herbaceous plants surrounded by foliage plants. A water feature linked by bridges and falls passes through the Dene Garden and Water Garden. The Garden of Persistent Imagination is planted with rose and clematis beside paths which meander across a bridge and under the Moonstone Gate, past the Dali-style clock.

Directions: Turn off the A68, three miles north of Jedburgh on to the B6400. After one mile turn right. 

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

Craigieburn House

by Moffat DG10 9LF
Janet and Peter McGowan
20 April - 31 October, 10:30am - 5pm (2025)
c7
T:07557 928648 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

Bughtrig

near Leitholm, Coldstream TD12 4JP
Mr and Mrs William Ramsay
1 May - 30 September, 9am - 4:30pm (2025)
67
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

Glenkyllachy

Tomatin IV13 7YA
Mr and Mrs Philip Mackenzie
1 May - 31 October (Monday & Tuesday), 10am - 5pm (2025)
7
emmaglenkyllachy@gmail.com
In a magnificent Highland glen, 1200 feet above sea level, Glenkyllachy is a beautiful garden of shrubs, herbaceous plants, rhododendrons, trees, and spectacular views down the Findhorn River. There are some rare specimens and a recently planted arboretum. Rhododendrons and bulbs flower in May/June, herbaceous plants bloom through July/August with glorious autumn colours in September and October. There is a very productive vegetable garden, 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

Leathad Ard

Upper Carloway, Isle of Lewis HS2 9AQ
Rowena and Stuart Oakley
1 May - 30 September (not Sunday), 10am - 6pm (2025)
c47
T:01851 643204 leathad.ard@gmail.com
A one-acre sloping garden with stunning views over East Loch Roag. It has evolved along with the shelter hedges that divide the garden into a number of areas giving a new view at every corner. With shelter and raised beds, the different conditions created permit a wide variety of plants to be grown. Features include herbaceous borders, cutting borders, bog gardens, grass garden, exposed beds, patios, a pond and vegetables and fruit grown both in the open ground and the Keder greenhouse. Some of the vegetables are grown to show standards.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: British Red Cross 60%
Floors Castle

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)
6d7
T:01573 223333
The gardens are situated within the grounds of Floors Castle. Meander through to the formal Millennium Parterre and soak up the spectacular visions of colour, texture and the most delicious scents around the four herbaceous borders in one of the finest Victorian kitchen gardens in Scotland. Features include perennial gardens, fruit cage, Tapestry Garden and glasshouse access as well as the Terrace Cafe, Apple Shed Gift Shop and Deli and children’s play area. Explore the grounds, which offer woodland and riverside walks from May to the end of September.

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

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
The Castle and Gardens of Mey

The Castle and Gardens of Mey

Mey KW14 8XH
The Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust
1 May - 30 May, 10:30am - 4pm (2025)
36k
T:01847 851473 enquiries@castleofmey.org.uk
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the late Queen Mother, bought what was then Barrogill Castle in 1952 before renovating and restoring the z-plan castle and creating the beautiful gardens you see today, renaming it The Castle and Gardens of Mey. This romantic and unique garden is a reminder that, however daunting the weather, it is often possible with a little vision and energy to create and maintain a garden in the most unlikely of locations. The castle now includes an animal centre, gift shop and tearoom serving delicious locally sourced food and drinks, often using produce from the castle’s very own gardens. 

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

Admission: details can be found on the garden's website
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
No Photo

Balmeanach House

Balmeanach, nr Struan, Isle of Skye IV56 8FH
Mrs Arlene Macphie
1 May - 4 October, 11am - 4pm (2025)
2c7
T:01470 572320 info@skye-holiday.com
Very much a plantsman's garden, begun in the early 1990s after a third-of-an-acre of croft land was fenced. A shelter belt now permits a plethora of diverse plants in exuberant herbaceous borders, which give nectar and pollen to keep the buzzing and fluttering going until autumn, plus rockeries and raised beds. Native trees rub shoulders with more exotic ornamental varieties, providing a canopy for shade-loving plants and nesting sites for the many birds who make the garden their home. A small pond in a sunken garden; a larger pond divided in two by a path over a culvert and a bog garden, give scope for marginal and moisture-loving plants. Meandering pathways lead through a small bluebell wood, an arbour garden, shrubbery and small birch wood, full of azaleas and rhododendrons. Plenty of seating throughout provides an invitation to sit, relax and enjoy the garden and stunning scenery beyond.

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

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

Dunninald Castle

Montrose DD10 9TD
The Stansfeld family
1 May - 31 August (Monday, Tuesday & Sunday), 1pm - 5pm (2025)
6d7
T:01674 672031 estateoffice@dunninald.com
We welcome our visitors to explore our 100 acres of woods, wild garden, policies and a walled garden. From January to May, the main interest is the wild garden and policies where snowdrops in January are followed by daffodils and finally bluebells in May. In June, the emphasis turns to the walled garden, rich in interest and colour throughout the summer. Situated at the bottom of the beech avenue, the walled garden is planted with rose borders, traditional mixed borders, vegetables, herbs, soft fruits and fruit trees and there is a greenhouse.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Donation to SGS Beneficiaries
Gorthleck House Garden

Gorthleck House Garden

Stratherrick IV2 6UJ
Steve and Katie Smith
24 May - 1 June, 10am - 6pm (2025)
T:07710 325903 gorthleckgarden@gmail.com
Gorthleck is an unusual 20-acre woodland garden built in an unlikely place, on and around an exposed rocky ridge which offers long views of the surrounding countryside in the ‘borrowed landscape’ tradition of Japanese gardens. The layout of the garden works with the natural features of the landscape with numerous paths, hedges and shelter belts creating clearly defined areas where a large collection of trees and shrubs are thriving. The garden includes over 400 different varieties of rhododendrons, half of which are species, and a large variety of bamboos. It is a large garden so allow sufficient time to see it properly.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Maggie's 60%
Nonavaar

Nonavaar

Levenwick, Shetland ZE2 9HX
James B Thomason
1 June - 30 September, 2pm - 5pm (2025)
4
T:01950 422447
This is a delightful country garden, sloping within drystone walls and overlooking magnificent coastal views. It contains ponds, terraces, trees, bushes, varied perennials, annuals, vegetable garden and greenhouse. 

Directions: Head south from Lerwick. Turn left at the Levenwick sign soon after the Bigton turn-off. Follow the road to the third house on the left after the Midway stores. Park where there is a Garden Open sign. Bus 6 from Lerwick - Sumburgh. 

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Cancer Research UK 60%
Linn Botanic Gardens

Linn Botanic Gardens

Cove, By Helensburgh G84 0NR
Matthew Young
18 June - 17 August (not Monday & Tuesday), 10am - 5pm (2025)
47
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%
5 Knott

5 Knott

Clachamish, Portree, Isle of Skye IV51 9NZ
Brian and Joyce Heggie
29 June - 30 September (Monday, Tuesday & Sunday), 2pm - 5pm (2025)
2c6
T:07495 442468 jbheggie@hotmail.co.uk
An informal, organic garden on a gently-sloping half-acre site. Perimeter hedging has enabled a sheltered and tranquil oasis to be created. Winding paths meander through the densely-planted borders filled with a diverse range of perennials, annuals and shrubs. There is also a vegetable area with raised beds and a large polytunnel. A developing wildflower meadow with sea loch views leads onto a sheltered bay and a shoreside walk to the headland. There are regular sightings of seals, otters, sea eagles and harbour porpoises. There is garden seating in several locations. The garden is situated in an easily-reached, particularly quiet and scenic area of Skye. The garden was featured on Beechgrove in 2023.

Directions: From Portree, take the A87 to Uig/Dunvegan. After approximately three miles, take the A850 towards Dunvegan. Six miles on, pass the Treaslane sign. Turn right on the bend at the signpost for Knott.

Admission: £4.00, children free
Charities: The Way Forward Group 30% & Crossroads Care Skye & Lochalsh 30%
Dougarie

Dougarie

Isle of Arran KA27 8EB
Mrs S C Gibbs
By arrangement (2025)
7
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%
No Photo

Kilchoan Gardens

Kilmelford PA34 4XD
Kilchoan Estate/ Luke Senior - Head Gardener
By arrangement (2025)
679
T:07425 054 743 or 01852 200 500 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%
Laundry Cottage

Laundry Cottage

Culdrain, Gartly, Huntly AB54 4PY
Judith McPhun
By arrangement between Open by arrangement 1 January - 31 December, admission £5.00, children free. Snowdrops during February and March. Groups of up to 12 welcome. (2025)
b046
T:01466 720768 judithmcphun@icloud.com
An informal, cottage-style garden of about one-and-a-half acres by the River Bogie. Two contrasting steep slopes make up the wilder parts. The more intensively-gardened area around the cottage includes a wide variety of herbaceous plants, shrubs and trees, an orchard area and fruit and vegetable plots, making a garden of year-round interest.

Directions: Four miles south of Huntly on the A97.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Amnesty International UK Section Charitable Trust 60%
Craichlaw

Craichlaw

Kirkcowan, Newton Stewart DG8 0DQ
Mr and Mrs Andrew Gladstone
By arrangement (2025)
b46
T:01671 830208 craichlaw@aol.com
Formal garden with herbaceous borders around the house. Set in extensive grounds with lawns, lochs and woodland. A path around the main loch leads to a water garden returning past a recently planted arboretum in the old walled garden. The best times to visit the garden are early February for snowdrops, May to mid-June for the water garden and rhododendrons, and mid-June to August for herbaceous borders.

Directions: Take the B733 for Kirkcowan, off the A75 at the Halfway House eight miles west of Newton Stewart and Craichlaw House is the first turning on the right. 

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

Barholm Castle

Gatehouse of Fleet DG7 2EZ
Drs John and Janet Brennan
By arrangement (2025)
b467
T:01557 840327 barholmcastle@gmail.com
Barholm Castle, a 16th-century tower, was restored from a ruin in 2005. The gardens surrounding the tower have been mostly developed from scratch and are now mature. There is a recently-extended walled garden, with a gate designed by the artist blacksmith Adam Booth; a courtyard garden; a wooded ravine with huge hybrid rhododendrons from Benmore; a pond and a large fernery with over 100 varieties of fern, including very large tree ferns; a large Victorian-style greenhouse filled with succulents and tender perennials; and a large open garden with island beds of shrubs and perennials and a pond. Directly around the castle are rockeries and shrub borders. Views over Wigtown Bay are magnificent. The garden is planted for year-round colour, from February, when the castle ravine is a river of snowdrops, to October, when autumn colour is splendid.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Home-Start Wigtownshire 60%
No Photo

Kevock Garden

16 Kevock Road, Lasswade EH18 1HT
David and Stella Rankin
By arrangement between 1 January - 29 December (2025)
4
stella@kevockgarden.co.uk
This wonderful hillside garden has magnificent views over the North Esk Valley. Its steep slope creates a range of different habitats with a wide diversity of plants, ranging from those that love hot, sunny conditions to those that prefer the cool, damp places near the pond and woodland glades. Mature specimen trees, rhododendrons, azaleas and unusual shrubs are underplanted with many rare woodland plants. Lawns have been relaid, surrounding borders have been planted, and there is a new rock garden. Kevock Garden has featured in many magazine articles and gardening programmes.

Directions: Kevock Road lies to the south of the A678 Loanhead/Lasswade Road. Five minutes from the city bypass Lasswade Junction and on the 31 Lothian Bus route to Polton/Bonnyrigg Road.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Fischy Music 60%
The Limes

The Limes

Kirkcudbright DG6 4XD
David and Carolyn McHale
By arrangement (2025)
6
carolyn.mchale@btinternet.com
This one-and-a-quarter acre plantswoman’s garden has a variety of different plant habitats: woodland, dry sunny gravel beds, rock garden, crevice garden and mixed perennial and shrub borders. There is also a large productive vegetable garden. The McHales like to grow most of their plants from seed obtained through various international seed exchanges. You can expect to see a large number of unusual and exciting plants. The garden is full of colour with an abundance of spring flowers in March, and in late May and early June the meconopsis should be at their best. The gravel garden comes into its own in July and continues through until winter. Hardy cyclamen are a big favourite and one species or another is in flower in almost every month of the year. Winter is a good time to admire their varied leaf forms.

Directions: In Kirkcudbright go straight along St Mary Street towards Dundrennan. The Limes is on the right, about half a mile from the town centre crossroads, on the edge of the town.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Friends Of Kirkcudbright Swimming Pool 60%
Charleston Forest Garden

Charleston Forest Garden

43 Gourdie Terrace, Dundee DD2 4QT
L Wakefield
By arrangement (2025)
47
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

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

Ruthven House

near Coldstream TD12 4JU
Keith and Karen Fountain
By arrangement between 1 January - 12 September (2025)
067
T:01890 840680 ruthvenhouse@btconnect.com
The three acres of Ruthven’s garden have lovely views towards the Cheviots. The garden’s central feature is two ponds joined by a winding stream. The garden is composed of various differing areas - herbaceous borders, woodland areas, a gravel garden, a knot garden, rockeries, an orchard laid to meadow, a kitchen garden, a highland garden, a nuttery, a small lavender field, a shade bed to the back of the house and, adjacent to the house, a formal rose garden. A small fold of Highland cattle in the adjacent field complete the scene. 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%
Mouse Cottage

Mouse Cottage

Strathtay, Pitlochry PH9 0PG
Penny Kennedy
By arrangement between 1 January - 29 November (2025)
4k
T:07799 678067 mymousecottage@outlook.com
Mouse Cottage sits on a south-facing hill overlooking Strathtay. Small but packed with interesting features, it is a semi-wild haven of secret places where self-seeders mix with annuals and more formal planting. The owner is an artist who adores her garden space and collects quirky planting containers such as dustbins and dolly tubs. Her Pear Parasol and Holly Brolly are amongst her favourite features. Gravel paths wind through shady places full of joyous surprises such as Crambe cordifolia. Self catering and B & B accommodation is available at: www.mymousecottage.co.uk

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

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

Dawson's Garden

The Old Post Office, Kilmany KY15 4PT
Liz Murray
By arrangement between 6 January - 21 December (2025)
45e
T:07531 571045 kilmanyartist@gmail.com
A small cottage garden, full of surprises. Developed from a bare rectangle of grass by the late artist Dawson Murray, it was designed to please the senses all year round with colour, form and scent. Stone paths edged with box meander out of sight past 13 apple trees and a plum tree; two varieties of fig; both a red and a green grape vine and roses chosen for scent. There are plenty of areas to sit and relax: by the pond, in a small grassy area through a rose and clematis arch, outside the studio facing the kitchen garden or up on the patio. All are accessible by wheelchair.
Champion Trees: Red Hazel

Directions: The Old Post Office is in the centre of the small hamlet of Kilmany, just off the A92, eight miles from Dundee or 1½ miles after Rathillet coming from the opposite direction. It can also be reached from Cupar via Foodieash.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Overcoming MS 60%
Harthill

Harthill

Reediehill Farm, Auchtermuchty KY14 7HS
Nichola and John Fletcher
By arrangement between 6 January - 31 October (2025)
2c67
T:01337 828369 info@nicholafletcher.com
Harthill enjoys a tranquil setting in the hills just above Auchtermuchty with beautiful views and, if you are lucky, sightings of the stunning herd of white deer who also live there. The garden, of approximately one acre, offers a large varied flower garden with vegetable, fruit and nursery areas; two separate wild gardens planted with specimen trees, a lochan and a small woodland. In late May to early June our meconopsis and primula beds, with woodland plants, are at their best. Summer offers herbaceous interest including a pergola dripping with roses and a large mound with grasses, thalictrum and many large plants. Autumn colours are in the trees and shrubs, with grasses and cyclamen through to early winter.

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

Admission: by donation
Charities: TST: The Tim Stead Trust 60%
The Pond Garden

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 fay@fayyoung.org
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

Madeira

Grangemuir, Pittenweem KY10 2RB
Tara Macdonald
By arrangement between 1 February - 30 September (Tuesday & Thursday). (2025)
b47k
T:07867 798746 tara@madeirainfife.com
Madeira is a wonderful, ten-acre eco garden with a Victorian walled garden at its centre. We have an orchard and vegetable garden, pretty paths through woodland and plenty of bluebells and snowdrops. We don’t use chemicals and fully support wildlife and the habitat they live in; the bee garden and our wilding areas are just two examples. The garden is a work in progress and we are continually creating spaces and fun things for kids to enjoy e.g. our dragon's den, Viking shelter, rope swings and more. We grow our own vegetables and love turning our fruit into juices, jellies, jams and ice-cream. We’d be delighted to show you round or let you wander and enjoy.

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

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

Gargunnock House Garden

Gargunnnock FK8 3AZ
The Gargunnock Trustees
By arrangement between 1 February - 1 June (2025)
b6d7
T:Garden contact: William Campbell 01786 842538 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.

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

Delvine

Murthly PH1 4LD
Mr David Gemmell
By arrangement between 1 February - 1 December (2025)
7
T:07748 207647 gemmell.david@googlemail.com
The arboretum at Delvine covers more than 10 acres. The arboretum is situated on a flood plain, flanked by oxbow lakes on each side. This is the place to visit for those who seek a remote and peaceful setting. As one proceeds in a westerly direction, one enters an area of great drifts of chimonobambusa and miscanthus grasses with water and wildlife in abundance. The walking is easy, but not suitable for wheelchair users. This garden will appeal to those seeking the unusual.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Army Benevolent Fund 60%
Kings Grange House

Kings Grange House

Castle Douglas DG7 3EU
Christine and Peter Hickman
By arrangement between 1 February - 31 August (2025)
b6
T:07787 535889
An extensive garden surrounded by mature trees and shrubberies, with views to the south west over the surrounding countryside. Originally Victorian, the garden is being restored by the present owners with a colourful variety of herbaceous mixed borders, beds and rockeries. There are snowdrops in February and banks of daffodils and a carpet of white narcissus in the lawns and around the pergola in springtime.

Directions: Take the B794 north off the A75, two miles east of Castle Douglas. Kings Grange House is approximately one mile on the left. 

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Marie Curie 30% & RNLI 30%
Kirkton Manor House

Kirkton Manor House

Peebles EH45 9JH
Mrs Rosemary Thorburn
By arrangement between 12 February - 16 July (2025)
7
T:01721 740220 rpthorburn@icloud.com
Kirkton Manor House has a delightful, three-acre, informal country garden set in the beautiful Manor Valley. It enjoys spectacular open views and calling curlews from its riverside position. Bluebells flank the impressive entrance leading to a new shrub border. Stone steps continue through to terraced slopes filled with bulbs, roses and hellebores providing height, interest and fragrance. Grass paths meander along the burn where snowdrops, blue and white camassia, meconopsis, and ligularia thrive in this sunny meadow environment. Later, in June, sisyrinchiums, irises, orchids and many flowering shrubs and roses are abundant. The natural woodland includes many interesting trees.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
Chaplains' Court

Chaplains' Court

20 The Chanonry, Old Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 1RQ
Irene Wischik
By arrangement between 1 March - 30 September (2025)
0c467
T:01224 491675 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

Luckie Harg's

Anwoth, Gatehouse of Fleet, Castle Douglas DG7 2EF
Drs Carole and Ian Bainbridge
By arrangement between 1 March - 30 September (2025)
467
T:01557 814141 luckiehargs@btinternet.com
A new and developing garden on the outskirts of Gatehouse of Fleet. A rock and spring herbaceous garden of around an acre, with a wide range of alpines, Himalayan and New Zealand plants, shrubs and small trees. There is a rock garden, modern crevice gardens, troughs, a large alpine house and bulb frame. New boulder, scree and stumpery beds, a pond and a woodland area are being developed. Small productive vegetable and fruit garden, plus a bluebell bank in May.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Scottish Rock Garden Club 60%
3 Millhall

3 Millhall

Shore Road, Kirkcudbright DG6 4TQ
Mr Alan Shamash
By arrangement between 1 March - 31 October (2025)
7
T:01557 870352 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%
Tal-y-Fan

Tal-y-Fan

Laurieston Road, Gatehouse of Fleet, Kirkcudbrightshire DG7 2BE
Janet & Sarah Wood
By arrangement between 1 March - 30 September (2025)
T:01557 815287 woodhill2uk@yahoo.co.uk
An over mature one acre plot is being developed into a many faceted garden with a varied mix of interesting plants. The Secret Path leads to Acer Valley and the Won-Kei Parterre, overlooked by the Loch Corbie Monster. A narrow log-lined way leads to West Wood, from where you follow the Burnside Path by the Flame Tree Forest and through the bamboo arch to Dry Wood to find Wood's Henge. Then up through Bluebell Wood to the top of The Rock, where Big Red, the giant squirrel resides, with views across the Fleet Valley. Back down and cross the lawns below the pond before heading up the granite path to the greenhouse, polytunnel, compost bins and the car park, with its collection of pots and troughs. Visit the front lawn and its well-stocked beds on your way out. Light refreshments may be available by arrangement.

Directions: Take the Laurieston Road north from Gatehouse of Fleet. After one mile fork right and then right at postcode sign. Turn left at top of slope. Tal-y-Fan (red roof) is at the very end.

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

Kilbryde Castle

Dunblane FK15 9NF
Sir James and Lady Campbell
By arrangement between 16 March - 30 September (2025)
67
T:01786 824897 carolaandjames@googlemail.com
Kilbryde Castle gardens cover some 12 acres and are situated above the Ardoch Burn and below the castle. The gardens are split into three parts: informal, woodland and wild. Natural planting (azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias and magnolias) 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

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 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

Bonhard House

Perth PH2 7PQ
Stephen and Charlotte Hay
By arrangement between Groups welcome to enquire (2025)
67
T:07990 574570 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%
Berandhu

Berandhu

Appin, Argyll PA38 4DD
John and Fiona Landale
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2025)
T:01631 730585 M: 07900 377414 johnllandale@gmail.com
A sheltered one-and-a-half acre coastal garden in a scenic setting offering fabulous views over Loch Laich to Loch Linnhe, Castle Stalker and the Morvern hills beyond. Craggy limestone abounds on the undulating site, some of which forms natural rockeries. Native trees mix with introduced firs and conifers. A variety of rhododendrons and azaleas provide spring and early summer colour. A mix of limestone overlaid with peat gives an unusual mix of wild flowers. This well-tended garden also has lovely wild areas of bog garden and woodland.

Directions: In Appin turn off the A828 Connel to Ballachulish road at Gunn's Garage signposted for Port Appin. After one mile when the road turns uphill, it's the first entrance on the right, half way up the hill.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Alzheimer Scotland 30% & The Appin Village Hall 30%
Grandhome

Grandhome

Danestone, Aberdeen AB22 8AR
Mrs WJB Paton
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2025)
26
T:01224 722202 admin@grandhome.co.uk
Eighteenth-century walled garden incorporating a rose garden and policies with daffodils, tulips, rhododendrons, azaleas, mature trees and shrubs. 

Directions: From the north end of North Anderson Drive, continue on the A92 over Persley Bridge, turning left at the Tesco roundabout. After 1¾ miles, turn left through the pillars on a left-hand bend. 

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

The Tower

1 Northview Terrace, Wormit DD6 8PP
Peter and Angela Davey
By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)
2c4
T:07768 406946 adavey541@btinternet.com
Situated four miles south of Dundee, this one-acre Edwardian landscaped garden has panoramic views over the River Tay. Set on a hill, a series of paths meander around ponds and a small stream, rockeries featuring hellebores and low-level planting, a curved lawn and larger borders. Original woodland paths lead to a granite grotto with a waterfall pool. At the rear of the house the vegetable garden features raised beds made from granite sets. The garden is colourful throughout the summer, with many architectural plants accentuating the clever hard landscape design.

Directions: From B946 park on Naughton Road outside Spar shop. Walk up the unmade path outside and to the left of the shop. The garden enrance is the second gate on the right.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Brain Tumour Research 60%
Berryfield House

Berryfield House

Lentran, Inverness IV3 8RJ
Lynda Perch-Nielsen
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 July (2025)
6
T:01463 831346 M: 07547 960341 lyndazpn@gmail.com
An open garden of trees and bushes with views across the Beauly Firth to Ben Wyvis. There are large swathes of bulbs: crocus, dogtooth violets and heritage daffodils. A three-acre wildflower meadow with meandering paths adjoins the garden.

Directions: Halfway between Inverness and Beauly on the A862. From Inverness, four-and-a-quarter miles on the left from crossing over the Clachnaharry railway bridge. From Beauly, one-and-a-quarter miles on the right from The Old North Inn.

Admission: by donation
Charities: Action Medical Research 60%
Rosewells

Rosewells

Baldinnie, Ceres KY15 5LE
Birgitta and Gordon MacDonald
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 August (2025)
67
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%
No Photo

Kirklands

Saline KY12 9TS
Peter and Gill Hart
By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)
23c467
T:07787 115477 peter@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

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

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: British Red Cross 60%
South Flisk

South Flisk

Blebo Craigs, Cupar KY15 5UQ
Mr and Mrs George Young
By arrangement between 1 April - 30 June (2025)
2c46
T:01334 850859 southfliskgarden@gmail.com
The spectacular views to Perthshire and Angus and large flooded quarry full of fish (and occasional otter) planted with impressive marginals, make this garden very special. Flights of old stone steps, cliffs, boulders, exotic ferns and mature trees form a backdrop for carpets of primroses, bluebells, spring bulbs and woodland plants like trilliums, camassia, meconopsis and colourful primulas, with rhododendrons in flower from March to July. In front of the house is a charming, mature walled garden with traditional cottage-garden planting. Next to the house is the St Andrews Pottery where George will demonstrate his pottery skills for those who need a break from the garden! A new water garden with a stream running through was created in 2023.

Directions: Six miles west of St Andrews off B939 between Strathkinness and Pitscottie. There is a small stone bus shelter opposite the road into the village and sign Blebo Craigs. See map on our website - standrewspottery.co.uk. Bus to Blebo Craigs.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Médecins Sans Frontières 60%
A Blackbird Sings

A Blackbird Sings

20 Kings Park, Longniddry EH32 0QL
Graham and Maxine Pettigrew
By arrangement between 1 April - 15 September (2025)
46
T:01875 853003
Situated in the Glassel Park Estate, the planting of this long garden reflects East Lothian habitats including moorland, grassland and woodland, as well as areas of related plant varieties such as rockery, roses, ferns, heucheras and peonies. Together they form a pattern of gardens within a garden accessed by boardwalks and woodland paths. A large water lily pond houses newts and a second pond within a rockery is fed by a waterfall, A cold conservatory contains cacti and insectivorous plants. Vertical structure is provided by a large number of specimen small trees such as Cornus, maples, magnolias, contorted Robinia, Chinese rowan, Davidia and Honey Locust. Animal and bird carvings in wood by Graham reflect local fauna.

Directions: By car: enter Dean Road from A198, right at Kings Avenue, right at Kings Park. House is at the end of the second cul-de-sac. By bus (124, X5): Cunningham Court stop, down Cunningham Court and Old Dean Road to turn right on Kings Avenue and then right at Kings Park.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Leuchie 30% & Scottish Wildlife Trust Ltd 30%
House of Aigas and Field Centre

House of Aigas and Field Centre

by Beauly IV4 7AD
Sir John and Lady Lister-Kaye
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2025)
6ek
T:01463 782443 info@aigas.co.uk
The House of Aigas has a small arboretum of named Victorian specimen trees and modern additions. The garden consists of extensive rockeries, herbaceous borders, ponds and shrubs. Aigas Field Centre rangers lead regular guided walks on nature trails through woodland, moorland and around a loch.
Champion Trees: Douglas fir, Atlas cedar and Sequoiadendron giganteum

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Highland Hospice: Aird branch 60%
Glassmount House

Glassmount House

by Kirkcaldy KY2 5UT
Peter, James and Irene Thomson
By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)
7
T:01592 890214 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%
Fernlea Garden

Fernlea Garden

Corvisel Road, Newton Stewart DG8 6LW
Mrs Jenny Gustafson
By arrangement between Homemade teas on 10th August, teas can be provided with prior arrangement for 'by arrangement' visitors (2025)
c6
T:07909 951885/ 01671 638273 floralbasket@proton.me
A secluded town garden of a third-of-an-acre, it was created in 2006 to complement a new house. There are many rare and unusual trees and shrubs. Two herbaceous borders, one with hot colours and the other pastels. A Chinese-inspired corner, small pond, fruit trees including a Galloway pippin apple and soft fruit. The upper part of the garden is hidden behind a tall beech hedge, where there is a summer house and adjacent woodland planting. 

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: GDI: red squirrels, East Wigtownshire 60%
46 South Street

46 South Street

St Andrews KY16 9JT
Mrs June Baxter
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 July (2025)
467
T:01334 474995 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%
Hunter's Tryst

Hunter's Tryst

95 Oxgangs Road, Edinburgh EH10 7BA
Jean Knox
By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)
4
T:07708 653584 jean.knox@blueyonder.co.uk
Well-stocked and beautifully designed, mature, medium-sized town garden comprising herbaceous and shrub beds, lawn, fruit and some vegetables, water features, seating areas, trees and an example of cloud pruning. This is a wildlife-friendly garden that has been transformed from a wilderness 40 years ago and continues to evolve. In 2017 two raised beds were added to the front garden. This hidden treasure of a garden was featured on Beechgrove in June 2015 and on The Instant Gardener in June 2016.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Lothian Cat Rescue 30% & St.Columba’s Hospice Care 30%
The Croft

The Croft

Houston Road Langbank PA14 6XT
Oliver Miller
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2025)
49
edburd@btinternet.com
This special 1 acre garden is on a steep rocky site facing north overlooking the Clyde just opposite Dumbarton Rock. There were mature elms when we arrived in 1981which have been replaced with several varieties of birch and rowan, a flowering Davidia also Liriodendron (tulip tree) and a Metasequoia (Dawn Redwood). There are some magnolias and a good collection of acers together with rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias. Around the waterfall tree ferns are happy, ferns in general enjoy the shady damp conditions. The Trachycarpus palms from the mountains of China also grow well. Some of the newly introduced bamboos with blue, black, golden and green culms (canes) are now over 25ft tall. In summer the hydrangeas take over, there is a wide selection including the Aspera section with their huge flowers and fuzzy leaves. Autumn brings the reds, oranges and yellows on acers, rowan, Parrotia, Cercidiphyllum. There is a rushing stream (usually) four springs and several ponds. The garden is steep, there are steps/paved paths and it can be wet. Stout footwear and care is essential.

Directions: From Langbank, take the Houston Road out of the village, under railway bridge and The Croft is 100 yards on the left (look out for conical yews).

Admission: £7.50, children free
Charities: Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue 60%
Gledenholm House

Gledenholm House

Ae Village , Dumfries DG1 1RF
Les Jack
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 July (2025)
c69
T:01387860278 les@gledenholm.co.uk
Developed over the past 35 years, this garden of two acres is set in countryside near Ae Village with some original planting of mature trees dating back to the 1870s. The garden is at its best from April to June, with spring bulbs flowering under species rhodedendrons, azaleas and Japanese maples. The beds feature cottage garden favourites, with clematis and a large rambling rose arch. The progress of the making of the garden can be seen on the SGS website at: scotlandsgardens.org/the-creation-of-a-garden/.

Directions: The garden is ten miles north of Dumfries, near Ae Village. Take the A701 from Dumfriesand after seven miles , take a left turn to Ae Village. At the village take a sharp left at the four -way junction and travel for 0.7 miles. Gledenholm House is then the second on the right with black cast iron gates.

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

Littlemill Road, Drongan KA6 7EN
Sue Simpson and George Watt
By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)
067
T:01292 592445 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 House

Corsock, Castle Douglas DG7 3DJ
The Ingall family
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 May (2025)
67
T:01644 440250 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

Dundonnell House

Little Loch Broom, Wester Ross IV23 2QW
Dundonnell Estates
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2025)
6e7
T:07789 390028 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%
Ruthven Cottage Hardy Plant Nursery

Ruthven Cottage Hardy Plant Nursery

Delnies, Nairn IV12 5NT
Mari and Kevin Reid
By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)
5
T:07874 779705 kevin.mari@gmail.com
The garden has exciting interest all year round. It features several large colourful herbaceous borders and many of the plants are sold at the nursery. The naturalistic style of planting with grasses and perennials looks good from late spring to late summer. There is also a pond, greenhouse and chickens.

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

Admission: by donation
Charities: All proceeds to SGS Beneficiaries
Broomhill Villa

Broomhill Villa

4 Edinburgh Road, Greenlaw TD10 6XF
Tatyana Aplin
By arrangement between 1 April - 30 June (2025)
67
T:07957 288557 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%
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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 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

Thirlestane

Kelso TD5 8PD
Catherine Ross and John Wylie
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 October (2025)
67
T:01573 420487 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%
Elvanrock

Elvanrock

Watson Street, Banchory AB31 5TR
Margaret Owen
By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)
49
margaret.owen@gmail.com
A town garden on a south-facing slope, redesigned over five years to manage the slopes. Planned for year round colour and ease of care. The garden offers five peaceful seating areas to enjoy the cottage garden borders, surrounded by a selection of rhododendron, Cornus kousa and flowering cherries with views across the Dee Valley.

Directions: By bus, alight at either Banchory Primary school (3 minute walk along Ramsay Road) or at Banchory High Street (10 minute walk uphill via Arbeadie Terrace and Elms Rise). On street parking is available.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Blood Cancer UK 60%
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Kirkmuir Cottage

KIlwinning Road, Stewarton KA3 3DZ
Mr and Mrs Brian Macpherson
By arrangement between 1 April - 31 August (2025)
7
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

16 Mulla

Voe, Shetland ZE2 9XQ
Linda Richardson
By arrangement between 1 April - 30 September (2025)
47
T:07765 037516 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

Craigowan

Ballinluig PH9 0NE
Simon Jones
By arrangement between 6 April - 30 June (2025)
67
T:07856 859219 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

Auldbyres Farm Garden

Coylton KA6 6HG
Marshall and Sue Veitch
By arrangement between 12 April - 31 August (2025)
67
su.pavet@btinternet.com
Surrounded by a working farm, this compact, established garden has mature shrubs, wildlife pond, bog garden and stream, borrowing stunning countryside views towards Ayr and Arran. Well-behaved spring borders give way to a riot of summer perennial favourites. Many 'found objects' of agricultural interest. Extensive containers brighten the farmyard with seasonal displays.

Directions: In Coylton take the road signposted B742, past Coylton Arms Pub in Low Coylton, Auldbyres is signposted on the left after ½ mile. 

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre 60%
Old Farm Cottage

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 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%
Willowhill

Willowhill

Forgan, Newport-on-Tay DD6 8RA
Eric Wright and Sally Lorimore
By arrangement between 26 April - 31 August (2025)
6
T:01382 542890 willowhillfife@btinternet.com
An evolving three-acre garden. The house is surrounded by a series of mixed borders designed with different vibrant colour combinations for effect in all seasons. Spectacular mix of roses, herbaceous perennials and annuals planted through the wide borders are a highlight in mid to late summer. A ‘no dig’ 160-foot border in shades of white, blue, purple and pale yellow was created in 2019/2020. The most recent addition to the garden is another ‘no dig’ border in shades of peach, burgundy, yellow, chocolate and acid yellow. Come and see! April and May for late spring bulbs and flowers; June and July for roses and high summer colour; August for late summer colour. The plant stall includes a lovely selection from the garden. Visitors are welcome to bring their own refreshments and picnic in the garden. A season ticket for all these dates, and by arrangement, is £25 plus p&p and admits the ticket holder plus guest. It comes with a limited edition of the Willowhill Garden Guide: 35 pages of beautiful photographs with descriptions of key garden features and plantings. A season ticket with booklet is a perfect gift for garden lovers for a birthday or at Christmas and do treat yourself too! Season tickets are available online at tinyurl.com/yxcj2mzy or by post (cheque for £27.76 payable to Scotland’s Garden Scheme) from Scotland's Gardens Scheme, 23 Castle Street, Edinburgh EH2 3DN.

Directions: 1.5 miles south of Tay Road Bridge. Take the B995 to Newport off the Forgan roundabout. Willowhill is the first house on the left-hand side next to West Friarton Farm Strawberry Shed.

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Rio Community Centre 50%
Ardno

Ardno

Cairndow PA26 8BE
Denzil How
By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)
7
T:Rob Backhouse Gardener 01499 302304 denzil.how@btconnect.com
From the rich, varied landscape, a romantic garden has been created from scratch over the past 25 years. Visitors can stroll in the walled garden near the house, or explore the old oak wood planted with many interesting shrubs. These are growing up fast, adding shape and colour. Across the burn is the gorge and a wonderful waterfall. The woodland garden ends in the meadow, planted with irises and a collection of unusual trees, which continues down to the beach and a magnificent huge rock. My garden is a place to be peaceful in. Come and enjoy, but be prepared as some of the paths are steep with lots of steps and are unfortunately not suitable for wheelchairs.

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

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

Thorntree

Arnprior FK8 3EY
Mark and Carol Seymour
By arrangement between 1 May - 1 September (2025)
6
T:01786 870710 carolseymour666@gmail.com
See the amazing views from Aberfoyle and the hills beyond to Doune. Thorntree is a cottage garden that has evolved from growing dried flowers into triangle beds to meander through with more and more plants filling in gaps! This year's task was pruning trees to make sure the sun gets through. The garden is kept with the aid of WRAGS trainees, now our 6th - they come for a year to be trained two days a week. I am so grateful to them all. I kept the garden as much as possible as the farmer's wife who lived here before had it - 33 years ago! Every year is different. In 2024 the hydrangeas all flowered so well, and roses were still in full first bloom in October. We are also usually here so come and see: just email to make sure we are not out.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Forth Driving Group RDA SCIO 60%
Glenkyllachy

Glenkyllachy

Tomatin IV13 7YA
Mr and Mrs Philip Mackenzie
By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)
7
emmaglenkyllachy@gmail.com
In a magnificent Highland glen, 1200 feet above sea level, Glenkyllachy is a beautiful garden of shrubs, herbaceous plants, rhododendrons, trees, and spectacular views down the Findhorn River. There are some rare specimens and a recently planted arboretum. Rhododendrons and bulbs flower in May/June, herbaceous plants bloom through July/August with glorious autumn colours in September and October. There is a very productive vegetable garden, 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

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 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%
Eas Mhor

Eas Mhor

Cnoc-a-Challtuinn, Clachan Seil, Oban PA34 4TR
Mrs Kimbra Lesley Barrett
By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)
2c4
T:01852 300469 kimbra1745@gmail.com
All the usual joys of a west coast garden plus some delightful surprises! A small contemporary garden on a sloping site - the emphasis being on scent and exotic plant material. Unusual and rare blue Borinda bamboos (only recently discovered in China) and bananas. The garden is at its best in mid to late summer when shrub roses and sweet peas fill the air with scent. The delightful, sunny deck overlooks stylish white-walled ponds with cascading water blades. Recent additions include a 20-foot citrus house, Chinese pergola walk and peony border.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: ABWA: Argyll & Bute Woman's Aid - support for domestic abuse - Oban Branch 60%
Brooklands

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

Drumpark

Irongray DG2 9TX
Mr and Mrs Iain Mitchell
By arrangement between 1 May - 31 August (2025)
e7
T:01387 820323 or 07743 895351 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%
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101 Greenbank Crescent

Edinburgh EH10 5TA
Jerry and Christine Gregson
By arrangement between 1 May - 31 August (2025)
4
T:0131 447 6492 jerry_gregson@yahoo.co.uk
The house is on a busy bus route, but it hides a fascinating garden on a sloping site. There are views over Braidburn Valley Park to the Pentland Hills. Paths wind down from the oval lawn, past a handsome magnolia tree, to a terrace which overlooks a water feature and flowering shrubs. Further steps lead past a scree bed of azalea and rhododendron to a productive area of vegetable beds and a neatly-concealed composting area. We aim to have colour, contrast and interest all year round.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: St.Columba’s Hospice Care 60%
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The Old Farmhouse

Dunning Road, Auchterarder PH3 1DU
Jane and Nigel Gallier
By arrangement between 1 May - 30 June (2025)
6
T:01764 662471 thegalliers@msn.com
A garden of approximately one acre with herbaceous borders, a gravel garden, vegetable garden, trained fruit trees in half-wine barrels, wild areas under-planted with bulbs, and woodland areas, with other areas still being developed. As you approach the house, look out for our kamikaze hens. The garden is not always immaculate; a well-ordered winter garden and a floriferous summer garden.

Directions: From the A9 take the A824 and halfway between Auchterarder and Aberuthven take the B8062 at Grand Eagles and head towards Dunning. We are on the left just before the A9 bridge.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: SSAFA Forces Help 60%
The Potting Shed

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 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

48 Rumblingwell, Dunfermline KY12 9AS
Rik Morley
By arrangement between 1 May - 1 July (2025)
0467
T:07733 855794 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

Carig Dhubh

Bonskeid, Pitlochry PH16 5NP
Jane and Niall Graham-Campbell
By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)
7
T:01796 473469 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

Beechwood

Broughton, Peeblesshire ML12 6HH
Susheila and James Gordon
By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)
267
T:07810 837068 or 01899 830443 susheilarachan@gmail.com
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

Lennel Bank

Coldstream TD12 4EX
Mrs Honor Brown
By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)
07
T:01890 882297 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%
Old Allangrange

Old Allangrange

Munlochy IV8 8NZ
J J Gladwin
By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)
e
T:01463 811304 office@blackislegardendesign.com
We have an ornamental garden surrounding the house (new information discovered dates it from the 17th rather than 18th Century), and a three acre productive garden with two Keder greenhouses, designed using agroforestry and permaculture principles and gardened bio-dynamically using no-dig technique. The ornamental garden has different areas with distinctive characters. There is a parterre in front of the house with informal planting, a lower garden, an ornamental propagation garden, a mound and orchard. Hedges, (pleached lime, yew, beech, box, holly and mixed species field hedges) clipped in various styles connect the different areas of the garden. We have started to remove perimeter wire fences replacing them with log hedges and brash bunds. With a keen interest in gardening for biodiversity from the soil upwards, no chemicals have been used since our arrival in 1995. The development and improvement of the garden is ongoing.
Champion Trees: Yew and sweet chestnut.

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

Admission: £7.50, children free
Charities: Flourish 60%
Orchard Cottage

Orchard Cottage

Lunan Bay, Inverkeilor, Arbroath DD11 5SS
Carol Evans
By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)
2ck9
T:07485 609506
This is a cottage garden 20 years in the making. Lots of art is incorporated and plenty of seating to catch the precious sun. The garden is divided into four main areas: lawned with wall and borders; a pond area with abundant planting and greenhouse; a productive area with raised beds, fruit cage and a converted aviary; and finally a shaded garden spot to look to Red Castle. The garden is about abundance and cultivated plants sit side-by-side with wild flowers, giving colour and interest for as much of the year as possible.

Directions: From Inverkeilor on the A92 north of Arbroath, take the turn off for Lunan Bay. After 1½ miles, you come to a T junction. Ignore the farm track opposite. Take the left turn and after 200 yards approx you start to go downhill. There is a house on the left called the Bears Den. Take the first right turn as you start to go downhill. It's an unmade track with four houses listed. Orchard Cottage is the first on the left with wooden gates.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: LBCP: Lunan Bay Communities Partnership 60%
Barochreal

Barochreal

Kilninver, Oban, Argyll PA34 4UT
Nigel and Antoinette Mitchell
By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)
46
T:01852 316151 antoinettemitchell1946@gmail.com
The garden was started in 2006. Fencing and stone walling define it from the rest of Barochreal land. Every year an area has been added, resulting in the gardens you will see today. There are rhododendron banks, a water feature, waterfalls and burns, a pond, a walled rose garden, active beehives (now housed in a purpose-built bee shelter built in 2021), tiered areas, a greenhouse and wild garden across the burn. Maintained walking tracks in the fields lead to viewpoints. Biodiversity studies revealed that rare butterflies inhabit the small glen by the waterfall. There are forty different species of moths including rare micro moths and over seventy species of wildflowers in the fields, including three types of wild orchid. There is an abundance of wildlife including red squirrels, pine martens and a wide range of birds can be seen. This garden is a haven of tranquillity, as seen in episode 9 of 2022 Beechgrove Garden.

Directions: Fifteen minutes south of Oban. On the main A816 Oban to Lochgilphead road just to the south of the village of Kilninver on the left-hand side of the road. Bus Oban - Lochgilpead stops at Kilninver School, short walk after. Please disregard SatNav and use what3words address instead www.w3w.co/albums.forest.tinned

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Scottish SPCA 60%
Netherbyres

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

Dal an Eas

Kilmore, Oban PA34 4XU
Mary Lindsay
By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)
2c7
T:01631 770246 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
No Photo

Amat

Amat Lodge, Ardgay IV24 3BS
Jonny and Sara Shaw
By arrangement between 1 May - 31 July (2025)
6e7
T:07712 266500 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%
Beech Cottage

Beech Cottage

The Wynd, Muthill PH5 2AP
Rosalyn Serex
By arrangement between 1 May - 1 September (2025)
34
T:07590 813509 rosalyn@serex.me
Nestled at the foot of The Wynd in the conservation village of Muthill, the garden is surrounded by the ancient trees of Lindores. The main attraction of the garden is the collection of 200 roses interspersed with companion perennials. A well planted Koi pond provides a relaxing area to be seated.

Directions: The Wynd is a street perpendicular to Drummond Street. The street name is clearly displayed on the corner house. The cottage is at the bottom of The Wynd approx 80 metres slightly downhill. Please note The Wynd is very narrow and is not suitable for large vehicles and is extremely difficult to turn around. Recommend using Drummond Street to park where there are usually sufficient spaces. Bus routes in Muthill: 18 – Auchterarder/Crieff; 45 - Town Service/Crieff; 15A – Perth/ St Fillans or Stirling; 615 – Perth/ St Fillans or Stirling. Bus stops are on Drummond Street - from here, head east towards the church/old church monuments.

Admission: by donation
Charities: The Dystonia Society 60%
Barlockhart Lodge

Barlockhart Lodge

Glenluce DG8 0JG
Barlockhart Gardeners
By arrangement between 1 May - 30 September (2025)
0c6
T:07821 776226 neilharper1962@btinternet.com
A newly-created garden, on a domestic scale, which is very much a work in progress. The main part is a reclaimed riding manege, which has been transformed with meandering paths around borders planted with perennials and grasses to reflect the local undulating landscape. A rockery border and greenhouse are to one side of the house and traditional cottage-style borders are to the front and other side. A small vegetable plot with raised beds and a polycarbonate greenhouse is to the rear. The garden is situated about a mile from Luce Bay and has the benefits of the Gulf Stream, but the disadvantages of an exposed, shadeless position.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: PIRSAC 60%
West Leas

West Leas

near Bonchester Bridge TD9 8TD
Mr and Mrs Robert Laidlaw
By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)
67
T:01450 860711 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%
No Photo

Highlands Garden

East Voe, Scalloway, Shetland ZE1 0UR
Sarah Kay
By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (Monday, Wednesday & Friday) (2025)
4
T:01595 880526/ 07818 845385 info@easterhoull.co.uk
The garden is in two parts. The upper garden is mostly a rockery, with a large selection of plants, shallow pond, seating area, polycrub and greenhouse with fruit and vegetables. The lower garden is on a steep slope with a spectacular sea view over the village of Scalloway. There is a path to lead visitors around and the garden features a large collection of plants, vegetable patch, deep pond and pergola. It was awarded a Shetland Environmental Award in 2014 for its strong theme of recycling. The owner also has an art studio which you are most welcome to visit when you view the garden.

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

Admission: £4.00, children free
Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support 60%
The Secret Garden

The Secret Garden

Isle of Lismore, Oban, Argyll PA34 5UL
Eva Tombs
By arrangement between 1 May - 1 September (2025)
2c
T:07786 374931 eva.tombs@gmail.com
A unique garden at the centre of a biodynamic farm on the Island of Lismore in the Inner Hebrides. The garden created from a field has a strong geometric layout that reflects the ecclesiastical history of the island. It has a vegetable garden, a tree nursery, a physic garden, an orchard and a polytunnel. The garden is a haven for wildflowers, birds, bees and butterflies. Standing stones, meadows, new woodlands, mountains and the sea encompass the whole. There is also a herd of rare breed Shetland cattle, chickens, ducks and friendly cats.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance 30% & Oban Gaelic Choir 30%
Kildalloig

Kildalloig

Campbeltown PA28 6RE
Mr and Mrs Joe Turner
By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)
7
T:07979 855930 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

Struanbridge

Essich Road, Inverness IV2 6AH
Marcus and Catriona Jenks
By arrangement between 1 May - 31 October (2025)
247
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

Arndean

by Dollar FK14 7NH
Johnny and Katie Stewart
By arrangement between 6 May - 7 June (2025)
57
T:07940530499 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

Ilha de Deus

Tiroran, Isle of Mull PA69 6ET
John Innes
By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2025)
2c79
T:01681705022 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%
Hawk House Gardens

Hawk House Gardens

Hawk House, Covington Road, Thankerton, Biggar ML12 6NE
Mr and Mrs A Milner-Brown
By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2025)
9
T:07831645527 angela@therathouse.com
We invite you to explore our formal and wild gardens at Hawk House, hidden inside protective mixed hedges, with formal gardens, a wildflower meadow, woodland and far-reaching views to the Scottish Borders and Tinto Hills. Since moving here in 2022, bringing many plants from our extensive collections from the nearby manse, we have developed new garden features. These include herbaceous borders, an alpine garden, and hosta beds; there is also a pond, vegetables and fruit, leading to the established wildflower meadow (80 species in 2024) and a hilltop pavilion nestled into the woodland. The garden has a strong environmental ethic, whilst, we hope, adding touches of humour and colour to this two-plus acre plot.


Directions: Please contact owner for full directions: location: https://w3w.co/stun.scorched.footsteps

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Buglife - The Invertebrate Conservation Trust 60%
Two Gardens in Banchory Devenick

Two Gardens in Banchory Devenick

Banchory Devenick AB12 5XT
Angela and Derek Townsley and Jane and Terry O'Kelly
By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2025)
2
T:text 07712 528450 janeokelly868@gmail.com
Pinetrees Cottage Banchory Devenick AB12 5XR (Angela and Derek Townsley): A mature garden set in three-quarters of an acre, filled with a wide range of hardy plants including rhododendrons, azaleas, acers, topiary and roses, with two ponds. An alpine house is fronted by stone troughs filled with rock plants. Set in a backdrop of mature pine trees to the north and open fields to the south.
Whin Cottage Ardoe, Aberdeen AB12 5XT (Jane and Terry O'Kelly): A cottage garden of just under half an acre surrounded by farmland. It features a border of rhododendrons and azaleas, several mixed borders, two formal rose beds, a wildlife pond and four raised beds growing a variety of vegetables and flowers for the house. The garden reflects a love of colour and structure and an interest in wildlife.

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Fighting For Sight Aberdeen 60%
The Old Manse

The Old Manse

Sandhead, Stranraer DG9 9JT
Geoff and Teri Birch
By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2025)
4
T:01776 830455 birchteri@gmail.com
A garden for plant lovers recently designed, landscaped and planted by the current owners. Comprising about half an acre, the garden is surrounded by stone walls and features a natural burn, two bridges, a Japanese inspired slope border, a formal parterre, a rose garden, rockeries and a shady woodland area. The Old Manse is close to Logan Botanic Gardens and enjoys the same temperate climate making a range of unusual and interesting planting possible. The colour themed borders include herbaceous perennials, shrubs, young trees, alpines, roses, grasses and bulbs which ensure continuity of interest throughout the seasons. 

Directions: From Stranraer take the A716 south following signs for Drummore; past Sandhead, look for a tourist sign for Kirkmadrine Stones and Clachanmore and turn immediately right. The Old Manse is on the corner on the right (known locally as Doctors’ Corner’. A bus service is available from Stranraer and stops at Doctors’ Corner.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Board Of Trustees Of The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh 60%
No Photo

Portmore

Eddleston EH45 8QU
Mr and Mrs David Reid
By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2025)
1c45d7
T:07905 776894
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

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%
1 Burnton Road

1 Burnton Road

Dalrymple KA6 6DY
David and Margaret Blatchford
By arrangement between 1 June - 31 August (2025)
4
T:01292 561988 d.blatchford273@btinternet.com
A tiny slice of jungle nestled within a small triangular plot. To the front of the house are two beds planted with nectar-secreting plants and seasonal colour. To the rear, an anonymous door leads to a small patio, home to some bonsai, a collection of potted terrestrial ferns and stone troughs hold tender and hardy succulents. A serpentine path meanders through dense planting of palms, brugmansia, bananas and tree ferns. Of note is the use of hardy and tender bromeliads and a collection of aroids such as Arisaemia, Alocasia, Colocasia and giant Zantedeschia. Flower highlights are provided by lilies (species and cultivars) and later in the season, cannas, and hardy gingers such as Hedychium, Cautleya and Roscoea. Nestling amongst the foliage is the giant leafed Tetrapanax together with the rare, giant terrestrial fern Lophosoria.

Directions: From the north take the A77 Ayr to Stranraer. At the roundabout, turn left onto the A713 and follow the road past the hospital to the junction with B742, turn right into the village. The garden is on the corner of Burnton and Barbieston Roads. From the south take the A77 towards Ayr, turn right onto the B7034. Follow into the village, at Kirkton Inn junction turn left onto Barbieston Road. Bus 52 from Ayr. The 52 leaves Ayr bus Station at 20 minutes to the hour and will drop you at the White Horse Pub in the centre of the village.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Dalrymple, Skeldon and Hollybush Project 60%
Kirkbrae House

Kirkbrae House

Culross KY12 8JD
Sandra Bannister
By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2025)
12c467
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%
10 Pilmuir Road West

10 Pilmuir Road West

Forres IV36 2HL
Mrs Lorraine Dingwall
By arrangement between 1 June - 1 September (2025)
c
T:01309 674634 fixandig@aol.com
Plantswoman’s small town garden with over 300 cultivars of hostas, an extensive collection of hardy geraniums together with many other unusual plants. Managed entirely without the use of artificial fertilisers or chemicals, the owner encourages hedgehogs, toads and wild birds to control slugs. In early spring there are approximately 150 named snowdrops to be seen, some of which are very rare.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Macmillan Cancer Support 60%
5 Knott

5 Knott

Clachamish, Portree, Isle of Skye IV51 9NZ
Brian and Joyce Heggie
By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2025)
6
T:07495 442468 jbheggie@hotmail.co.uk
An informal, organic garden on a gently-sloping half-acre site. Perimeter hedging has enabled a sheltered and tranquil oasis to be created. Winding paths meander through the densely-planted borders filled with a diverse range of perennials, annuals and shrubs. There is also a vegetable area with raised beds and a large polytunnel. A developing wildflower meadow with sea loch views leads onto a sheltered bay and a shoreside walk to the headland. There are regular sightings of seals, otters, sea eagles and harbour porpoises. There is garden seating in several locations. The garden is situated in an easily-reached, particularly quiet and scenic area of Skye. The garden was featured on Beechgrove in 2023.

Directions: From Portree, take the A87 to Uig/Dunvegan. After approximately three miles, take the A850 towards Dunvegan. Six miles on, pass the Treaslane sign. Turn right on the bend at the signpost for Knott.

Admission: £4.00, children free
Charities: The Way Forward Group 30% & Crossroads Care Skye & Lochalsh 30%
15 Fairfield Road

15 Fairfield Road

Broughty Ferry, Dundee DD5 1NX
Aileen Scoular
By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2025)
4679
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%
2 Strathview

2 Strathview

Alcaig, Conon Bridge IV7 8HS
Mike and Babs Crocker
By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2025)
2c9
T:01349 862799 Text 07817 042206 mpbecrock@gmail.com
A medium-sized garden with mature apple trees and a shady maze of paths through beds packed with perennials sloping down to sea level where there are plenty of birds on the estuary to view. Featuring a small greenhouse, steam model railway which works if weather allows. There are a couple of water features fed by rainwater, leading to a small deep pond. Stunning panoramic view across the Cromarty Firth seen from a 'food forest', with fruit trees growing on a set of home designed arches, runner beans, strawberries and apple trees. Achilty stone retaining walls and steps have been added over the last 14 years. Many plants have been chosen for their perfume. There are various seating areas.

Directions: From Tore roundabout head north for Ullapool on the A835. Take the right turn for Findon onto the B9163. After about one mile, turn left along a tree-lined lane (just before the wooden sign for Alcaig. Parking is limited to two cars in one party.

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Friends of Alcaig Telephone Box (SCIO) 60%
Keldaberg

Keldaberg

Cunningsburgh, Shetland ZE2 9HG
Mrs L Johnston
By arrangement between 1 June - 30 September (2025)
6
T:01950 477331/07774539693 linda@cunningsburghhall.com
A ‘secret garden’ divided into four areas. A beach garden of grasses, flowers and driftwood. The main area is a sloping perennial border leading down to a greenhouse and vegetable plot and up to a decked area with containers and exotic plants including agaves, pineapple lilies, cannas and gunneras. There is a small pond with a waterfall and goldfish. The area to the back of the house has retaining walls in which rockery plants can be found and, nestled among trees, an arbour in which to rest. In the newer part of the garden there is a wildlife pond with aquatic plants including water lilies, a gunnera and a few frogs! This is situated below the polycrub, in which I grow vegetables, passion flower and fruit trees such as a peach, pear and plum as well as a grapevine. My other vegetables plots are east of the polycrub.

Directions: On the A970 south of Lerwick is Cunningsburgh, take the Gord junction on the left after passing the village hall. Continue along the road to the second house past the Kenwood sign. 

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland 60%
No Photo

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
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

Clonyard Farm

Colvend, Dalbeattie DG5 4QW
Matthew and Pam Pumphrey
By arrangement between 15 June - 30 June (2025)
0467
clonyard@btinternet.com
Open by arrangement for wildflowers. Informal garden around traditional stone buildings with views over pasture, wetland and a loch to mature mixed forest. The garden joins a wildflower meadow dominated by black knapweed and established yellow rattle. It features three species of native orchids and a former mill pond, a notable damselfly site. Both are maintained specifically to allow native wildlife and plants to thrive. There is an ornamental vegetable garden and around the house mixed plantings merge from sun to shade and woodland planting to provide all-year-round interest. There are meadow, wetland and woodland walks to two lochs and a crannog. Refreshments available on request.

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

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: Marie Curie: DG5 Group 60%
Gardener's Cottage Walled Garden

Gardener's Cottage Walled Garden

Ballochruin Road, Killearn G63 9QB
Derek and Morna Knottenbelt
By arrangement between 15 June - 15 October (2025)
T:01360 551682 mornaknottenbelt@hotmail.com
The walled garden, acquired in 2013 by the present owners, has been planted with extensive herbaceous borders, box hedging, roses and many unusual plants. There is a White Garden, a long shrub border with primulas and gentians and a former fernery with a collection of salvias, argyranthemums and peach and pear trees. June is a good time to visit when the roses are in bloom and borders with lupins, peonies, campanulas and other perennials are in flower. In July/August there is a fine collection of phlox in all of the borders, followed by dahlias, Michaelmas daisies, rudbeckias and blue aconitums from August to October. The Celtic Cross Garden was planted in May 2021 with a range of new plants including echinaceas, cardoons, lobelias, anthemis and lavender for mid to late summer colour. There are fine views of the Campsie Hills and the garden is surrounded by the conifers of the Designed Landscape of Carbeth. 

Directions: Follow Sat Nav to G63 0LF, which is Carbeth Home Farm on Ballochruin Road, halfway between Balfron and Killearn. We are the next entrance below the farm. Turn left on to the gravel road opposite the yellow Council salt bin and follow yellow SGS signs. 

Admission: £5.00, children free
Charities: The British Horse Society: Scotland 60%
No Photo

Helensbank House

Kincardine FK10 4QZ
David Buchanan-Cook
By arrangement between 16 June - 31 August (2025)
13c4ea
T:07739 312912 Helensbank@aol.com
Hidden away from public view, this is an 18th-century walled garden, with main feature a Cedar of Lebanon, reputedly planted in 1750 by the sea captain who built the house. The tree is registered as a 'Notable Tree' and while it provides challenges for planting, in terms of shade and needle fall, the microclimate it provides has encouraged the owner's passion for pushing boundaries and growing unusual and exotic plants. Distinctive garden ‘rooms’ in part of the garden comprise a perennial blue and white cottage garden, a formal rose garden and an Italian double courtyard with citrus trees in pots. A ‘hot’ courtyard contains exotics including varieties of banana, acacia, iochroma, impatiens, melianthus and brugmansia. A shaded walk along the bottom of the garden leads to a Japanese themed area including a pagoda and dry river. A large glasshouse hosts various exotic and climbing plants. The garden has well over a hundred roses, including the National Collection of Portland roses.
National Plant Collection: Portland Roses
Champion Trees: The garden has a 'notable' Cedar of Lebanon, the second largest in Fife

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

Admission: £6.00, children free
Charities: Perennial 60%
Bannockburn House Gardens

Bannockburn House Gardens

Stirling FK7 8EY
Bannockburn House Trust
By arrangement between 1 July - 30 September (2025)
67
T:07980284027 gardens@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

Larch House

Clerklands, Near Lilliesleaf TD6 9JR
David and Julia King
By arrangement between 1 July - 31 August (2025)
37
T:01835 870888 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

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 sueandwill@icloud.com
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

Craigowan

Ballinluig PH9 0NE
Simon Jones
By arrangement between 20 September - 20 October (2025)
67
T:07856 859219 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%