The exotic gardens of Galloway
Galloway’s climate is influenced by the Gulf Stream, a current of warm water that makes its way across the Atlantic Ocean originating in the Gulf of Mexico. The current influences the climate in south west Scotland creating balmy conditions that will sustain the growth of exotic plants, which would not normally thrive at this latitude. As a result, Galloway is home to fabulous gardens brimming with varieties one would never expect.
Castle Kennedy Gardens, Galloway
Castle Kennedy Gardens, Galloway, are a wonderful experience for all the family, even if you don't have a deep understanding of plants.
The Castle Kennedy Gardens were laid out more than 300 years ago around the ruins of the castle itself, which was destroyed by fire in 1716. It took 20 years to initially establish the gardens and they have been evolving ever since. Like other formal gardens in Galloway, the plant varieties on show and the layout are celebrated, however, you don’t need to be an expert to enjoy them. We have spent happy afternoons walking in the gardens, which cover more than 70 acres, playing hide and seek, messing around on the grass and having picnics in a wonderful, stupendously colourful environment. [Approx. 25 minutes from Burnside by car].
"With care the eye examines every part, Too form'd for Nature - yet too wild for Art"
Samuel Boyse on Castle Kennedy Gardens, 1734
lOGAN BOTANICAL GARDENS, GALLOWAY
Logan Botanical Gardens, Galloway, is a truly exotic collection of plants from all over the world
Described as ‘Scotland’s most exotic garden’, Logan Botanic Gardens are something special. Southern hemisphere plants flourish in the walled garden and even the experts at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh describe the contents of the woodland garden as ‘weird and wonderful’. There is a discovery centre for visitors to learn more about the plants and the garden’s history. [Approx. 40 minutes from Burnside by car].
GLENWHAN GARDENS, GALLOWAY
Glenwhan Gardens, Galloway, are home to exotic plants from the southern hemisphere but less than 40 years ago they were moorland
Only 35 years ago Glenwhan Gardens was a tangle of moorland and a couple of lochlans (small lakes). Through an incredible amount of hard work and some natural assistance from the warming influence of the Gulf Stream, the site is now home to tender southern hemisphere plants and rare shrubs and trees. Today, Glenwhan is considered one of the most beautiful newly made gardens in Scotland. [Approx. 25 minutes from Burnside by car].