Scotland the best
Great garden centres
From exotic centres making the most of the Gulf Stream to family-run natural wonders New Hopetoun Gardens
On the A904. 40 years on, the ever-expanding and meticulously nurtured prize bloom of Scottish garden centres sprawling among trees with many different zones and demonstration gardens (including Oriental and Scottish). Everything you could ever grow or put in a Scottish garden. Acres of accessories; from bird feeders to statuary of every age. newhopetoungardens.co.uk (01506) 834433
Glendoick
Take slip road off the A85, 10km from Perth, in the fertile Carse of the Tay. A large familyowned garden centre and, adjacent, their famous rhododendron and azalea gardens – the (Cox) family garden, 2km up the road is remarkable. glendoick.com·(01738) 860205
Kinlochlaich
On main A828 Oban–fort William road just north of Port Appin turn-off, the West Highlands’ largest nursery/garden centre. Set in a large walled garden filled with plants and veg soaking up the climes of the warm Gulf Stream. The Hutchisons nurture these acres enabling you to reap what they sow. With an array of plants on offer it’s like visiting a friend’s garden and being able to take home your fave bits. Charming cottages and apartments. kinlochlaichgardencentre.co.uk (01631) 730342
Woodside
On B6400 off A68 opposite Ancrum turn-off just past Harestanes and before Monteviot, this is Emma and Stephen Emmerson’s conscientiously run nursery in a walled garden of the big hoose that overlooks the Teviot. Beautiful, quiet place with displays, events and organic agenda. They really care about their plants, the wildlife and yours. woodsidegarden.co.uk (01835) 830315
Peter Irvine is the author of the essential travel guide Scotland the Best published by Collins, priced £15.99