EDZELL CASTLE

eDZell, by brechin

Edzell Castle’s garden, The Pleasance, is so stylish it’s ranked one of the best of its type in Britain.

It’s partly down to the sculptures and carved panels within the walls surrounding the gardens.

They’re intricate, unusual and worth some of your time.

The carvings represent the arts and philosophical thoughts of the time – it’s believed the garden was created in 1604. Even if you aren’t a history buff, you’ll be fascinated by the detail on display here.

The castle itself is a ruin, but is still of interest. It’s the gardens, though, that make Edzell a popular destination for visitors to Angus.

For the best view, head to the upper floors of the castle. Luckily the tower is accessible and the scene below makes it worth the climb.

Looking down on the gardens that way, you’ll really appreciate the effort that’s been poured into the grounds and the symmetry of it that makes it so special.

Don’t miss the summer house at the bottom of the garden, either. It has been restored to what it once would have been and is a snapshot of life gone by.

You can even access the Lindsay Aisle – that’s the ancestral family burial vault. Not for everyone, but strangely fascinating!

You can easily while away a couple of hours in the gardens and there’s a visitor centre, too.

It’s run by Historic Scotland and gives you more insight into a castle with a fascinating past. The staff there are also full of info.

Opens from April 1. Edzell Castle and Garden, Edzell, By Brechin, Angus, DD9 7UE 01356 648631