GREAT GARDENS TO VISIT THIS MONTH

Glenbervie House, Drumlithie, Stonehaven The nucleus of the present-day house dates from the 15th century, with additions in the 18th and 19th centuries. A traditional Scottish walled garden on a slope with roses, herbaceous and annual borders along with fruit and vegetables. One wall is taken up with a Victorianstyle greenhouse with many species of pot plants and climbers, including peach and figs. A woodland garden by a burn is punctuated with many varieties of plants. Open 7 August (2-5pm) The Castle & Gardens of Mey, Mey Originally a Z plan castle bought by the Queen Mother in 1952 and then restored and improved. The walled garden and the East Garden were also created by the Queen Mother. An animal centre has been established and is proving very popular with all ages. A new herbaceous border, east facing, nestled under the West Wall contains Agapanthus, Phlox, Pink Aconitum, Sidalcea, Verbascum and Knautia among others. Open 13 August (10am-5pm) Kilbarchan Village Gardens, Renfrewshire Taylor Avenue and Yardshead represent the new and old sides of this traditional weaving village where Dr Finlay’s Casebook was filmed. No.8 Taylor Avenue is a small garden, well stocked with mature shrubs, herbaceous plants and climbers. No.12 is an established triangular garden, with paths leading to different areas. No.14 is a large corner site with an orchard, fruit and veg plot, lawns with new and established borders with annual, perennials and shrubs. These contrast with the two gardens in Yardshead in the older part of village, with a less usual format displaying late-summer flowering. Open 21 August (2-5pm)