Pitmedden Garden

A visit here offers an experience as rich in history as any country house or castle. The Garden was originally laid out in 1675 by Pitmedden's first baronet, Sir Alexander Seton, and was re-created by the National Trust for Scotland in the 1950s. The elaborate designs were inspired by those reputedly used in the garden of the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh.

Today Pitmedden features over 5 miles of box hedging arranged in intricate patterns to form six parterres. These parterres are filled with some 40,000 plants bursting with colour in the summer months. Extensive herbaceous borders provide an abundance of colour and texture throughout the season and the spectacular lupin border is not to be missed.

Two new borders were added in 2004. Honeysuckle, Jasmine and roses create a succession of fragrances, while fountains, topiary, sundials and a fascinating herb grden add to the sense of discovery around the walled garden. If you are a keen gardener, Pitmedden is a great source of inspiration and ideas.

Over 80 varieties of apple trees adorn the high granite walls, offering a spectacular show of blossom and scent in spring. On the last Sunday in September harvest celebrations are held, with dancing and music and you can buy fruits harvested from the gardens.

In the 100 acre estate is situated the very fine Museum of Farming Life which presents a vivid picture of bygone days, when the horse was the power in front of the plough.

The woodland walk extends for a mile and a half round the estate and takes in ponds, rhododendrons, a lime kiln and a nature hut with information about the wider estate. The picnic area is an ideal spot to stop for lunch, and you can even enjoy a game of boules on the petanque piste.

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