GREAT GARDENS TO VISIT THIS MONTH

Kildrummy Castle Gardens, Alford, Aberdeenshire These gardens were created in the ancient quarry below the Castle. The bridge spanning the garden is a copy of famous brig o’ Balgownie and reflects beautifully on the largest of the four ponds which plays host to a wide range of water plants. Rhododendrons and azaleas feature in spring. In June the lovely blue of the Meconopsis can be enjoyed and September and October brings colchicums and brilliant colour with acers, fothergillas and viburnums. Open 2 October (10am - 5pm) Little Broich, Kippen, Stirlingshire A tree lover’s heaven. A hidden arboretum of about eight acres, planted over the last twenty years, with an extensive collection of native and non-native conifers and broadleaf specimens. Fern leaf oaks, Hungarian oaks, Cercidiphyllum and Glyptostrobus amongst many others around wide, slightly sloping grass paths (can be slippery when wet). Stunning views across the Carse of Stirling and the autumn colours should be outstanding. Open 2 October (2 - 5pm) Drum Castle Garden, Drumoak, by Banchory, Aberdeenshire The National Trust for Scotland has established a collection of old-fashioned roses which is at its peak for blossom and colour during July. Other garden areas include a pond and bog garden, wildlife meadow, wildlife garden, a cutting garden and new viewing platform and stumpery. The garden is open to visitors April - October with evening guided tours available on request. The castle hosts a plant sale on 8 and 9 October. Open 8 & 9 October (11am - 4pm)