Perthshire Gardens

Perthshire enjoys a unique location where the Scottish Lowlands meet the Highlands. This gives a wide variety of soil types and localised microclimates that are suitable for many different types of plants.

The area is known as Big Tree Country and boasts some of the finest trees and wooflands of anywhere in Europe, including record breakers such as the Fortingall Yew, the oldest living thing in Europe, and the tallest hedge in the world at Meikleour. Perhaps it is these natural wonders that have provided inspiration for Perthshire's pioneering gardening tradition that goes back several centuries. Its central location makes Perthshire easy to reach and a pleasure to explore on a day trip. However, why not stay a little longer, and explore horticultural heritage at a more relaxed pace?

The fertile soil and gentle climate of Perthshire have long inspired botanists, gardeners and horticulturists. That’s why you’ll find some of Britain’s most colourful gardens here – from small, privately-owned and lovingly-tended gardens full of specialist plants and flowers, to sumptuous, formal gardens in the grounds of stately homes.

Hurcules Garden, Blair Castle

The grounds at Blair Castle were laid out by the 2nd Duke of Atholl in the 18th century. In a hollow some 100 metres to the east of the castle, he made a magnificent 10 acre walled garden. A statue of Hercules is placed above the garden with a spectacular view across its sloping ground and interlocking ponds. In summer, the glory of this garden is the wide herbaceous bed that runs the length of the south-facing wall and is divided by buttresses of yew. The summer planting scheme runs from hot, vibrant reds and oranges, to cooler pinks and blues over the length of the 275 metre border. This beautiful and productive garden is planted with more than 100 fruit trees, vegetables, herbs and flowers. Other features of interest include a red and turquoise Chinoiserie-style bridge, statues, urns, a folly and two heather-thatched swan and duck huts. There is also an excellent collection of conifers in nearby Diana's Grove featuring some of the country's tallest and finest trees.

To go to the VisitScotland Perthshire website for more information on the Perthshire Garden Collection please click here.

Sign up for our e-newsletter to receive the latest news, events, special offers and competitions.