GREEN CITIES

Scotland's seven cities contain many tranquil green spaces, which are perfect for quiet contemplation or a relaxing stroll:

  • Edinburgh is blessed with Princes Street Gardens at its very heart.
  • Although Glasgow has a powerful industrial heritage, it's one of Europe's greenest cities. Head for Kelvingrove Park or Glasgow Green and you'll see what we mean.
  • Camperdown Country Park in Dundee feels more like a country estate than an urban green space.
  • And in Aberdeen, lovely Hazlehead Park with its woodlands, rose gardens, maze and golf courses is just one of 13 parks in the city.
    •  ACCESSIBLE PARKS & GARDENS

    Scotland has many accessible parks and gardens you can enjoy exploring! Take a look at Euan's Guide to help you plan your next visit.

    National Trust for Scotland also has a range of beautiful gardens to explore, a number of which are accessible.

     COUNTRY PARKS

    Head a little out of the cities and you'll find wonderful country parks that are ideal for a family day out.

    Just a short bus ride or drive from Edinburgh will take you to Vogrie by Gorebridge, Dalkeith, Beecraigs just outside Linlithgow and Roslin Glen which you'll find between Roslin, Auchendinny and Rosewell.

    On the outskirts of Glasgow explore Calderglen in East Kilbride and Strathclyde country park a little further east or Cathkin Braes near Cambuslang. To the north of the city Mugdock and Palacerigg country parks are well worth a visit.

    Angus, north of Dundee is also renowned for its parks, which include Monikie, Crombie and Forfar Loch.
    1. INVERARAY CASTLE, INVERARAY

    Home to the Dukes of Argyll, and the seat of Clan Campbell, Inveraray Castle is a turreted, fairytale castle with a fittingly grand garden. The 16 acre garden encompasses formal lawns, flowerbeds and woodlands.

    Horticultural highlights: daffodils, rhododendrons, azaleas, heathers and roses.
    Gardener’s tip: when you’re on the central path, stop and take a look around – the borders on either side are laid out like the Saltire, Scotland’s national flag.
    Nearby gardens: Ardkinglas House & Gardens, Crarae Garden, Benmore Botanic Garden

    2. DUNNINALD CASTLE AND GARDENS, MONTROSE

    Grab the chance to see one of Scotland’s lesser known gardens! Open on specific days in spring and summer, Dunninald Castle and Gardens is one of hundreds of locations which open for a limited time to raise money for charity as part of Scotland’s Gardens Scheme.

    Horticultural highlights: roses, daffodils, bluebells, snowdrops.
    Gardener’s tip: take a walk in the woods and you might spot a red squirrel!
    Nearby gardens: Langley Park Gardens, Pitmuies Gardens, Brechin Castle Gardens

    3. JOHNSTON GARDENS, ABERDEEN

    Scotland’s cities are home to stunning gardens too. Get away from it all at the Japanese-inspired Johnston Gardens in Aberdeen, where you can relax and unwind by trickling streams and flowing waterfalls.

    Horticultural Highlights: rhododendrons, spring bulbs, heathers and alpines.
    Gardener’s tip: the garden is a popular spot for wedding photos – smile!
    Nearby gardens: David Welch Winter Gardens, Cruickshank Botanic Garden, Pitmedden Garden

    4. GORDON CASTLE WALLED GARDEN, FOCHABERS

    New life has been breathed into one of Britain’s largest and oldest walled gardens. Lovingly re-designed, Gordon Castle Walled Garden features a wealth of vegetables and herbs which are used in the café and products in the shop – including the botanical gin! There are also floral displays, a maze and a natural play area for children.

    Horticultural highlights: perfume garden, nectar garden, lavender garden.
    Gardener’s tip: The garden hosts events and workshops throughout the year, including theatrical performances in the purpose-build sunken performance area.
    Nearby gardens: Haugh Garden, Blackhills Garden, Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens

    5. THE HIDDEN GARDENS, GLASGOW

    This garden is on a mission to bring people together in Pollokshields, one of Scotland’s most diverse communities. Located in a former tram works, the Hidden Gardens have transformed the area into a peaceful haven that features both native and exotic plants, and intriguing artworks.

    Horticultural Highlights: bamboos, rowans, magnolias, hazels.
    Gardener’s tip: Join a Voluntour (a volunteer-led tour) to get the most out of your visit.
    Nearby Gardens: Glasgow Botanic Gardens, Pollok House

    6. DAWYCK BOTANIC GARDEN, SCOTTISH BORDERS

    Open from February to the end of November, Dawyck Botanic Garden is a treat in any season. Garden terraces and woodland paths feature both native and exotic plants, with the Azalea Terrace, Dutch Bridge and Beech Walk being the garden’s most popular photo spots.

    Horticultural highlights: snowdrops, daffodils, azaleas, rhododendrons, beech trees, Douglas firs.
    Gardener’s tip: Did you know that Dawyck is a sister garden to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Logan Botanic Garden and Benmore Botanic Garden?
    Nearby gardens: Kailzie Gardens, Traquair House, Priorwood Garden

    Discover more gardens to visit in Scotland

     

    Get Scotland inspiration direct to your inbox. Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.

    Get the Scotland newsletter