The Poison Garden

The Poison Garden sits behind imposing black wrought-iron gates kept locked when no visitors are present. It houses many dangerous plants, some of which survive in our garden. Rhododendrons, foxgloves and aquilegia are just a few.

Experienced guides are on hand to show you around and to make sure none of the plants are touched. School groups are taught about the harmful effects of drugs.

Val McDermid, the crime writer, is a frequent visitor, and has incorporated some of the effects from the plants into her stories.

Shutterstock. The Poison Garden is only open for guided tours.