Perthshire Gardens
Top Gardens To Visit In Perthshire
The fertile soils of Perthshire have proved irresistible to botanists and gardeners from across the world, who have lovingly created some of the most spectacular gardens in the British Isles. These exciting gardens combine native Scottish plants with other exotic species, resulting in an enchanting smorgasbord of colour that needs to be seen to be believed. Don’t miss out on these spectacular sights during your trip to Perthshire, ensure you spare the time to visit some of the region’s premier gardens.
Drummond Castle Gardens
Drummond Castle Gardens is a stunning example of a formal garden with origins in the 1600’s. Originally designed by Lewis Kennedy this mature garden is a pure joy to behold, and it can boast the royal seal of approval too as the gardens were visited by no less than Queen Victoria herself.
It’s easy to see why this enchanted space is so popular. Walking among the gardens it’s easy to feel as if you’ve stepped inside a fairy tale like Alice In Wonderland. Visitors can enjoy superb views from the terrace and marvel at the spectacular condition of the original sundial which is still on display today.
Late spring and summer is the best time to visit if you can, as the garden comes alive with colour from a plethora of roses and acers.
Bolfracks Garden
Bolfracks house has been home to an ornamental garden since the middle of the 18th century. The garden itself is famous for its collection of rare plants, including a superb collection of rhododendrons and traditional roses. In recent years the garden has undergone considerable renovations with the addition of new peony beds and herbaceous borders adding an exciting new dimension to this traditional site.
This north facing garden offers stunning views over the Tay valley, making this an ideal spot for a picnic and afternoon of leisure. Bolfracks House is steep in places so be sure to bring suitable footwear. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to create a garden in challenging conditions, Bolfracks will provide ample examples of botanical ingenuity.
Scone Palace Gardens
Scone Palace is of huge historical significance, as you’d rightly expect from the place where the kings of Scotland were crowned. There’s loads to see here so give yourself enough time to appreciate it all, both inside and outside the palace.
The Scone Palace Gardens are set around a lake and a pinetum containing redwoods, noble firs and conifers. In particular visitors marvel at the giant Douglas Fir, which was raised from a North American seed in 1826 and makes for a majestic sight. In spring time the snowdrops, bluebells and daffodils are a delight to behold. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and see the ground exploding with colour from rhododendrons and azaleas.
The maze is a particular hit with children of all ages, it’s designed in the shape of a star and is known locally as the Murray Maze, after the family crest. Incredibly over 2000 beech trees were used to construct the maze, and today it remains the only maze in the whole of Perthshire.
Even more gardens!
If you want to see more gardens, of all sizes then check out the Scotland’s Gardens website. And let us know if you’d like a horticultural twist to your tour of Scotland – there’s sure to be something to amaze you!
