The Barnhill Rock Garden is an award winning public park extending to more than two hectares. This beautiful garden boasts a wonderful array of alpines, shrubs, woodland and waterside planting with spectacular views across the River Tay.
The garden, which is situated on part of a former nine-hole golf course, was started in 1955 by clearing an area of volcanic rock which at one time had been the old shoreline. Over the years it was then extended eastwards over areas which had once been sand dunes.
Visitors and locals alike can enjoy the beauty of the garden which provides an excellent place for recreation and relaxation. Situated on the esplanade in Broughty Ferry, the garden is within a short distance of other amenities and attractions such as restaurants, an award winning beach, and the 15th century Broughty Castle which overlooks the harbour.
In addition to the outstanding horticulture on view a variety of wildlife can be seen whilst visiting the garden which is also situated adjacent to a local nature reserve. It provides an excellent opportunity to combine a visit to the garden with some bird watching or to look out for seals in the River Tay.
There are picnic tables and seats throughout the garden and there are toilet facilities nearby.
The garden is open to the public at all times and entry is free.
There is ample car parking beside the garden and coach parties are welcome as bookings.
The garden is only minutes walk from the nearest bus stop which has a regular service. It is also easily reached by visitors travelling by bicycle, the garden is on a number of cycle routes and bike racks are situated nearby.
Dogs are allowed in the garden but must remain on a lead.
Access for wheelchair users is available to the garden but limited to certain areas. The front part of the garden consists of connected areas of short mown grass and the pavement alongside the Esplanade runs the length of the garden. The toilet facilities have disabled access and the information centre in the glasshouse has an adapted entrance.
