Our northern climate presents gardeners with huge challenges. But if they can be overcome, the results are stupendous. 

NB We can offer you exclusive tours of the most attractive gardens in the north of Scotland. En-route we will have countless opportunities to tell you – according to your field of interest – about Scotland’s nature, history or legends and to describe the ways of life of its inhabitants in the past and the present.

Armadale, located at Sleat, Isle of Skye: walled gardens, access only as part of ticket for Clan Donald (see under Clans)

Attadale Gardens, located by Loch Carron, on way to Kyle of Lochalsh and Skye: jewel in the crown of private Highland gardens open to visitors, water gardens, rhododendrons, Japanese Garden, Victorian Fernery, sculptures. More info

Castle of Mey Gardens, located on north coast of Caithness ; former property of our dear departed Queen Mother, today NTS property; still visited by Prince Charles and Royal Family; fantastic walled garden managed organically. More info

Cawdor Castle located near Nairn in Morayshire. 17th c Gardens & Tibetan Garden at Auchindoune, (see also under Castles). More info

Dunrobin Castle Garden, located on the east coast, near Golspie, East Sutherland. Mid 19th c. design, modelled on Versailles, access to garden, museum and falconry included in ticket for visit to Dunrobin Castle. Good café/restaurant. More info

Glenkyllachy Gardens, nr Tomatin, Cairngorm National Park, magnificent setting 1200’ (366m) above sea level: shrubs, herbaceous plants, rhododendrons, trees and spectacular views down the Findhorn River. Open Mondays only, or by arrangement, 1st April to 30th October. More info

Gordon Castle Garden. Traditionally designed formal garden (see under Castles). More info

Inverewe Gardens, located near Poolewe on Atlantic (west) coast of NW Highlands; NTS property, sub-tropical garden with great variety of plants, created in 19th c on almost bare ground; Inverewe House museum; gardens open almost year-round. Further info

Leckmelm Shrubbery and Arboretum, located just outside Ullapool on banks of sealoch Loch Broom, rhododendrons/azaleas/camellias, ancient trees and spring bulbs (honesty box). More info. Check out images for Leckmelm Gardens.

Logie Steading: beautiful country estate with steadings converted to provide excellent café/restaurant, gardens, Findhorn river walks, art gallery, whisky and wine shop, secondhand books, salmon fishing, outdoor theatre and events, open all year round. More info

For inspiration and information on special Open Days, please visit Scotland’s Garden Scheme