GARDENS TO VISIT

WINTON CASTLE Pencaitland, EH34 5A

Owned and run by Sir Francis Ogilvy’s Winton Trust, the gardens around the castle continue to develop and improve. In addition to the natural areas around Sir David’s Loch and the Dell, extensive mixed borders are taking shape for the terraces and walled garden. In spring, a glorious covering of daffodils makes way for cherry and apple blossoms. Open 7 April, 12pm – 4.30pm; admission £5.00, children free.

KILARDEN Rosneath G84 0PU

This sheltered hilly ten acre woodland forms part of a 20-acre property with a notable collection of species and hybrid rhododendrons gathered by the late Neil and Joyce Rutherford, as seen on the Beechgrove Garden. The collection has been augmented in the last 18 years by the current owner. Fruit trees and bushes have been established. Open 14 April, 2pm – 5pm; admission £3.00, children free.

MAOLACHY’S GARDEN Lochavich, by Taynuilt PA35 1HJ

Three acres of woodland garden with a tumbling burn – created in a small glen. At an altitude of 450 feet this garden has a short growing season. Snowdrops are followed by early rhododendrons, masses of daffodils, bluebells, wildflowers and azaleas, primulas and irises. A productive veg patch and tunnel feed the gardener and family.

Open 20 April, 2pm-5pm; admission £4.00, children free.