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CASTLE FRASER, SAUCHEN, ABERDEENSHIRE

From its rhododendron garden to its groves of centuries-old trees, Castle Fraser garden and estate is an enchanting gem. Lying about 15 miles west of Aberdeen, the grounds boast one of Scotland’s largest tower houses – and the history of the gardens is just as intricate.

Castle Fraser garden and estate was largely designed by Thomas White, a pupil of Capability Brown, who later did surveyor work for the architect. He was commissioned by Elyza Fraser, who inherited the estate in 1792. Some of the landscape features are reminiscent of Brown’s style, along with a subtle twist provided by Fraser, who intended to personalise the estate.

The present walled garden was created in 1795 to replace the old fruit and vegetable garden that was sited near the east wing of the castle. It was designed to provide all the needs of the castle, with vegetables, fruit and flowers befitting the grandeur of the estate. Today it is planted with a representative of the needs of times gone by, accentuating the more decorative requirements with some interesting herbaceous borders. It does, however, still have a small section for vegetable and fruit production.

The estate also has ancient trees, some perhaps 400 years old, and many of the trees in the landscape are the same as those planted in the 18th century. There is a rhododendron garden planted under towering conifers, which adds a splash of colour in the spring.

The garden and estate are characterised by intimate corners of the walled garden and wide lawns and vistas to the castle and surrounding grand trees. On the wider estate, there are extensive walks with wonderful views of the grand castle.

WEBSITE: www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/castlefraser

TELEPHONE: 01330 700330

OPENING TIMES: All year, daily 10am-16pm ADMISSION COSTS: Included when visiting the castle, gardens by donations. Car park charge. National Trust for Scotland members go free

Garden of the Week is in association with Discover Scottish Gardens. For more info visit discoverscottishgardens.org

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