Explore thescenic gardensof Perthshire
Scotland’s largest conservation charity, the National Trust for Scotland, is encouraging people across Perth and Kinross to make the most of the beautiful gardens, landscapes, and historic places the city has to offer this spring.
With 48 per cent of respondents to a recent Trust survey ranking gardens and country estates as their favourite place to spend time in the outdoors, and 95 per cent stating that spending time in the outdoors effectively reduces stress, there’s never been a better time to get outdoors and explore.
One of the highlights of the beautiful locations under the care of the National Trust of Scotland to be explored is the blue poppies at Branklyn Garden in Perth.
Branklyn Garden is home to an outstanding collection of exotic, rare and unusual plants.
Established almost 100 years ago, this charming garden was cultivated by Dorothy and John Renton, who sourced seeds from the most eminent plant hunters of the 1920s.
Spring into early summer is a special time to visit Branklyn Garden, a peaceful haven within walking distance of Perth city centre, with the garden full of colour.
Giant lilies (cardiocrinum), lady-slipper orchids and primulas captivate through late spring, with blue poppy (Meconopsis) season starting in May and continuing into June.
Ann Steele, head of gardens and designed landscapes at the National Trust for Scotland, commented: “As spring progresses, it’s joyful to see our places come to life around Scotland, through the plants that they grow.
“Our charity is privileged to care for 38 gardens across the country, and as the weather becomes warmer and days become longer, each place changes as leaves unfurl and flower buds burst and we’re excited to share with visitors the beauty of nature and the stories of our gardens and the plants and wildlife that thrive there.
“Those who are inspired by our gardens can also grow a slice of Scottish heritage at home, with our charity’s ROOTS seed subscription pack. Thanks to the generous support of our members and supporters, the Trust can continue its vital work to care for and protect Scotland’s nature, beauty and heritage, now and for future generations to enjoy.”
Other areas people are being urged to enjoy are Linn of Tummel, which is the point where the rivers Garry and Tummel meet.
The circular walk takes you along riverbanks, through woods and over footbridges, providing spectacular views all the way.
A 1.5 mile walk at the Hermitage leads to Ossian’s Hall, an unusual folly built in the 18th century to provide a thrilling vantage point over the roaring torrent of the Black Linn Falls.
Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve also offers a range of walks for all abilities and levels of fitness, including a childfriendly, 1 mile caterpillar trail. Ben Lawers itself is Scotland’s tenth-highest Munro at 3,984ft
For more information on the National Trust for Scotland, or the sites near you, visit: www.nts.org.uk. Further information on ROOTS can be found here.
Visitors to Trust places are encouraged to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and ensure they are respecting the natural beauty of Scotland.