Stirling Observer

Festival rolls out the white carpet

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The gardens of three historic Stirlingsh­ire properties are taking part in one of Scotland’s most popular outdoor festivals.

The Scottish Snowdrop Festival features more than 50 properties showing off spectacula­r swathes of snowdrops carpeting their grounds.

Local properties taking part are Braco Castle (until March 12), Gargunnock House (until March 12) and Kilbryde Castle Gardens at Dunblane (February 26).

Braco Estate was originally owned by the Bishops of Dunblane and the castle has had various alteration­s through the centuries until the Victorian era, when sham turrets were added. It boasts a 19th century landscaped garden which has been extended extensivel­y over the last 26 years.

The partly walled garden features an ornamental pond and spectacula­r views to the Ochils.

Gargunnock House, built during the 16th and 17th centuries, has in recent years been extensivel­y restored. Parkland, mature gardens and and hundreds of mature and rare trees surround the house.

Home to the Campbell family since 1659, Kilbryde Castle was rebuilt in the 1870s by the present owner’s great, great-grandfathe­r in the style of the period

The castle is on the side of a gorge through which the River Ardoch flows, encircling the property on three sides. Its gardens cover 12 acres and are split into three parts: formal, woodland and wild.

The festival’s founder Catherine Erskine said: “We are very lucky in Scotland to have a fantastic climate for snowdrops, with many species thriving here and creating stunning displays.

“And this year, due to a mild winter, snowdrops are certainly popping their heads out earlier than they have for many years.”

For details of all the gardens and grounds taking part visit www. visitscotl­and.com/ snowdrop.

The Scottish Snowdrop Festival is being organised by Discover Scottish Gardens and supported by Visitscotl­and.

 ??  ?? Flower power The display at Gargunnock House
Flower power The display at Gargunnock House
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