Garden of the week

CASTLE KENNEDY GARDENS, CASTLE KENNEDY, STRANRAER, DG9 8SJ

Romantically situated on an isthmus surrounded by freshwater lochs, Castle Kennedy Gardens is one of Scotland’s finest gardens. From spectacular flowering plants and exotic trees to beautiful scenery, sculptured landforms, magnificent walks, peaceful bird hides and a popular family events programme, the gardens are a hidden treasure and a perfect haven for relaxing and exploring.

The gardens were the inspiration of the 2nd Earl of Stair in the early 19th century and are famous for their colourful displays of rhododendrons, azaleas and embothriums, many rare and exotic plants, 20 champion trees, spectacular avenues and the romantic ruins of 16th-century Castle Kennedy.

An elaborate series of terraces and land sculptures can be found throughout the gardens, forming stunning patterns of curves and banks. Despite their contemporary look, they were constructed in the early 19th century by men with horse-drawn carts. The avenues were planted with a single type of tree, many of which can be seen today, such as the 150-year-old Monkey Puzzle Avenue and the Thuja Avenue. The two-acre Round Pond filled with rare water lilies is also a highlight.

This year the gardens have a packed programme of event. These include birds of prey displays, ranger activities, summer camps for young people, guided walks by the head gardener and open-air theatre and cinema. There is also a tearoom serving homemade food and holiday cottages to stay in.

The gardens are open weekends in February and March as part of the Scottish Snowdrop Festival. Lochside drives and walks are opened once a year to let visitors see and enjoy the swathes of snowdrops and spring bulbs. Website: www.castlekennedygardens.com Telephone: 01776 702 024, 01581 400 225 Opening times: Weekends February and March, daily March 30 to October 31 Admission costs: Adults £5.50, concessions £4.50, children £2, disabled free, family (two adults and two children) £12. Group discounts

Garden of the Week is in association with Discover Scottish Gardens. For more information, advice and day-out ideas, visit discoverscottishgardens.org