EXHIBITOR PROFILE
36 of these stunning gardens and estates are being promoted by Discover Scottish Gardens through its website, printed map (which you can pick up at Scone Palace Garden Fair), and social media channels and with gardens now awake from their winter slumbers and summer holidays nipping at our heels, what better time to embark on an adventure?
Whether you are looking to tap into Scotland’s heritage, hunt down famous filming locations, dine out at delightful cafes, or pick out places for perfect family days out, Discover Scottish Gardens has selected 14 of the best below!
This flagship museum weaves through the town of Alloway, showing landmarks of the bard's life. Marvel at the Burns Monument, a tribute set in a truly romantic spot in luscious rose gardens.
Considered the ‘Balmoral of its day’, Falkland was the place where royals, like Mary Queen of Scots, could relax with walks through this beautifully maintained Fife garden. Home to the oldest tennis court of its time, where real tennis, or royal tennis, is still played to this day.
If it is history you desire, then Drum Castle certainly packs a historical punch. Do not miss the breath-taking walled garden, which tells the story of its design over four centuries. The Old Wood of Drum and heavenly-scented rose collection is also memorable.
A living museum of 17th century port life, this jewel of a village is a unique survival of a town that time has passed by. The old buildings and cobbled streets create a fascinating time warp for visitors. Come and see the streets where hit US TV Series ‘Outlander’ was filmed and enjoy the period garden, which sells fruit, vegetables and herbs.
With its unique architecture and beautiful woodland gardens, fans of the Oscar-winning film ‘The Queen’ (2006) may recognise Castle Fraser as it doubled for Balmoral Castle during filming.
A newer series that landed on Apple TV in 2023, ‘The Buccanners’, filmed at many significant sites in Scotland including Newhailes House & Gardens. This active estate with regular events, markets, and an adventure playpark, will also keep wee ones happy.
For those needing to burn off some extra energy, adventure is around every corner at Culzean Castle. With its dramatic cliff top position, beach walks (when the tide is out) and two adventure playgrounds, all will find something to excite them when visiting Culzean.
This enchanting castle, tucked away near Banchory in Aberdeenshire, boasts stunning architecture, beautifully intricate garden designs, a nature trail, and the Wild Wood adventure park, which will entertain all ages.
Known for its mesmerising daffodil collection, Brodie Castle also offers a Playful Garden. This fun filled area invites younger visitors to explore amusing sculptures like the biggest bunny in Scotland, giant daffodils and even spitting toads.
An extraordinary garden, Inverewe has a renowned plant collection in which garden enthusiasts can delight. It also offers an opportunity to experience Scotland’s ‘Big 5’ wildlife species, as all have made their home here. Bring the family along for a day observing wildlife either from the grounds or book onto a wildlife boat trip.
A beautiful bowl of soup or a treat from a café seems to be the perfect pairing for any garden visits and here you can choose from two: Violet’s or Erskine’s.
You can spend a full day at Threave enjoying the various aspects of the gardens or exploring the wildlife walkways through the reserve. After working up an appetite, the café will set you right with a range of home-baked goods and seasonal snacks.
Picture yourself here, taking in the seasonal delights of Branklyn Garden from the terrace with a delicious scone or slice of strawberry sponge cake. There seems to be something new to see with every visit to this hillside haven.
A place of true character, The Hill House entertains visitors with its many experiences throughout the house, in addition to artwork and a garden with Mackintosh’s creative touch. Be sure to make time for tea at the café with its warm and welcoming space, open seven days a week.
As a member, you will enjoy unlimited access to the National Trust for Scotland’s sites. Explore the magic of Scotland’s great outdoors and iconic landscapes, immerse yourself in the cultural history of the country, and enjoy memory-making days out with the whole family. Know that your support helps with important conservation work, so that Scotland’s incredible heritage can be enjoyed by all through its protection for future generations. Join the National Trust for Scotland today.
There are hundreds of beautiful gardens across Scotland welcoming visitors throughout the year. Always check ahead with each garden on opening times and be mindful of how weather may impact openings and events. Be sure to pick-up the latest edition of the Discover Scottish Gardens map in tourist information points and leaflet stands across Scotland, or visit their stand at Scone Palace Garden Fair to chat about all the wonderful gardens open across Scotland to visit.
Visit www.discoverscottishgardens.org to explore hundreds of gardens across Scotland and for the latest news of year-round events and activities taking place in Scottish gardens.