Gardens in Argyll, The Isles, Loch Lomond, Stirling and The Forth Valley

Discover the Glorious Gardens of Argyll, a group of 20 local gardens on the west coast, many of which benefit from the warmth of the Gulf Stream.

Arduaine Gardens

Lush coastal gardens by Kilmelford on the Argyll coast. Open all year, 9.30am - sunset. National Trust for Scotland.

Ardanaiseig Garden

Vegetable garden and large herbaceous border. Woodland walks with flowering trees and shrubs. Located at Ardanaiseig Hotel, Kilchrenan by Taynuilt in Argyll.

Ardkinglass Woodland Garden

Spectacular display of rhododendrons and one of Britain's finest collections of trees. At Cairndow overlooking Loch Fyne in Argyll. Open daylight hours all year round.

Benmore Botanic Garden

Set on the Cowal peninsula, this 120-acre mountainside garden has spectacular views and is home to a world-famous collection of plants. Famous for its Rhododendrons and avenue of 150-year old Redwood trees. Part of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. 
B&B near Benmore Botanic Garden - Douglas Park Guest House in Dunoon

Crarae Garden

Eleven miles south of Inveraray on the A83 road to Lochgilphead. Rare trees and exotic shrubs from around the world thrive in the mild climate and the magnificent setting of the Highland glen, making Crarae unique among gardens. 400 rhododendrons and azaleas. Gardens open all year round (summer: 9am - 6pm / winter: dawn to dusk). National Trust for Scotland. 
B&B near Crarae Garden - Douglas Park Guest House in Dunoon

Ardchattan Priory Garden

13th Century ruins with wonderful gardens on the north shore of Loch Etive, not far from Oban. Open April - October.

Achamore Gardens

Created by Colonel Sir James Horlick on the small island of Gigha situated off the west coast of the Kintyre peninsula, these 54-acre gardens are renowned for their collections of rhododendron and camellias. The Gulf Stream which creates the microclimate enables many unusual plants and trees from around the world to flourish on the island. As well as the colourful gardens, you can enjoy views across to Islay and Jura. There is a regular ferry service from Tayinloan .

The Japanese Garden at Cowden

Scottish adventurer Ella Christie was inspired by her travels to create The Japanese Garden in the grounds of Cowden Castle in 1908. It is the only garden of its type in the world to have been designed by a Japanese woman (Taki Handa). After 3 years of restoration, it is now open to the public, along with 20 acres of woodland walks. Situated between Muckhart and Dollar in Clackmannanshire. Toilets, refreshments and plant sales.

B&Bs near the Japanese Garden - Bayview B&B in Fife, Tarskavaig B&B near St Andrews, Arden Country House near Linlithgow