Scotland’s Gardens Scheme – Kirkside of Lochty

This garden, designed by renowned local plantswoman Irene Mackie over 20 years ago, is now nurtured by the current owners. There are four distinct areas each with their own character. Along the short drive and to the east of the house is a spring woodland spot full of bulbs, leading to the new gravel garden, a sheltered spot to enjoy late summer sunshine amongst the agapanthus and grasses.

The hot, sunny courtyard parterre is full of herbaceous perennials with high summer interest and from there, one is drawn through the beech hedge into a wilder area of three island beds with mixed planting, as well as a meadow loved by wildlife and bees.

More recently the garden has been enhanced by careful reduction in the perimeter tree canopy opening up the westerly views to grazings and allowing the pollarded willow hedge to be back-lit by winter sun.

Directions: From the A90, take Careston/Fern/Menmuir turn just south of Brechin. Proceed towards Menmuir for about 2 miles. The garden is on the left behind beech hedge.

Admission £5.  Children Free.

Plants for Sale.  Partial Wheelchair Access.  Dogs on Leads.  Teas Available Nearby.

Beneficiaries: St Andrews Scottish Episcopal Church 30% and Pitt Hopkins UK 30%.