Scotland’s Gardens Scheme – Gardyne Castle

Gardyne Castle, dating from the 16th century, is one of the most attractive small castles in Angus. After a turbulent history of battles with the neighbouring Guthries, the fortified house now sits in the centre of an enchanting garden created by its current owners over the past 18 years. To the east, the walled garden runs down to the Denton Burn.

The castle’s extraordinary stone-capped turrets overlook a long romantic double border, bursting with tulips and alliums in May. The castle’s southern front was extended in the 17th, 18th and early 20th centuries and is complemented by a large enclosed knot garden of box and yew mixed with white roses and lavender. Beyond is an immaculate formal lawn surrounded by yew topiaries and specimen trees, leading to a wildflower meadow with a gentle path leading down through an orchard.

To the north, a new upper garden, centred on an extraordinary pepper pot doocot, provides an area for quiet contemplation with white planting, a fishpond and the family’s collection of chickens. Beyond the formal gardens the grounds merge into mature woods and parkland with a spectacular display of bluebells and romantic walks along the Denton Burn.

Directions: Turn off A932 at signpost to Pitmuies Garden. Go over two stone bridges and follow road uphill past small hamlet. Take first road on left. At sharp right-hand bend take private drive straight ahead (beside cream lodge).

Admission £5.  Children Free.

Homemade Teas, Children’s Activities, Partial Wheelchair Access.

Beneficiaries: Guthrie and Rescobie Parish Church 60%.

The garden is only available to visit on these dates.