Garden Finder > Scotland > Perth and Kinross > Drummond Castle Gardens

Last updated on 21 June 11

Drummond Castle Gardens

  5.0/5 (2 ratings)
  • Autumn, Drummond Castle Gardens Photograph © Drummond Castle
  • Parterre, Drummond Castle Gardens Photograph © Drummond Castle
  • Drummond Castle Gardens Photograph © Drummond Castle

Gardenvisit Editorial

An old castle with a fine nineteenth century garden. The multiplex sundial, carved by Charles I's master mason, survives from the 1630s. It was made at a time of great interest in astronomy and when sundials were the only accurate way of telling the time. Drummond castle is set on a ridge. Terraces step down the hill to the south and a large parterre takes the form of Scotland's flag, the St Andrew's cross, centred on the old sundial (layout visible on the satellite image on the map below). The design was carried out by Lewis Kennedy, though the terracing may have been influenced by Charles Barry. Today, the planting is simpler but the garden retains the atmosphere of the Country Life black and white photographs of British gardens. There are no ladies in flowing white dresses, except in a painting of Queen Victoria's 1842 visit, but the peacocks continue to give an aristocratic air to the scenery.

Head Gardener's Comment

This is an amazing formal garden in the heart of the country. Stand at the main entrance to the garden and you almost get a birds-eye-view of the whole place. One of our younger visitors asked "Is this Alice in Wonderland's Garden?". Visit us and see if you agree with her.

History

The garden has its origins in the 1600s and over the centuries it has seen many changes. Queen Victoria visited in 1842 and planted copper beech tree to commemorate her stay.

Plants of Note

Colourful Acers. Finely clipped Taxus species, Antirrhinums in the summer and roses galore.

Address - Muthill, nr Crieff, Perth and Kinross, Scotland, PH7 4HZ
Opening times - May to October. Daily. Also open Easter weekend. Open 1pm to 6pm.
Admission - Adult £5.00 Superadult £4.00 Child £2 (Additional children free)
Website - Visit the Drummond Castle Gardens website

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Reviews and Comments

Have you visited this garden?

  • almost 2 years ago Nicky said

    Equipped with four children, three adults and one 'super' adult, we saw Drummond Gardens on a gloriously warm day at the end of July 2011. The kids loved playing hide and seek admist the amazing Yews, which they thought looked like giant monster clouds, whilst we adults marvelled at the beautifully manicured gardens. I spoke to the lovely Edith who's gardened there for 30 years. She told me about the planting and the grounds' fascinating history. Even if formal gardens aren't really your thing - this particular garden has to be appreciated for being at the very top of its game. They also sell some tasty mini pots of ice cream, enjoyed wholeheartedly by all of us on the short walk back to the car.

    (5.0/5)
  • almost 2 years ago Anonymous said

    Not even the dramatic avenue of beech trees as you drive to Drummond Castle prepares you for the delight of the Gardens. Beware of hedgehogs loitering in the road and tiny toads bouncing around the gateway.

    The gardens are such a joy. Enjoy superb views from the terrace and the sundial. Be sure to visit the kitchen garden and ask helpful staff any questions.

    Friendly ice-cream and tea van in the carpark.
    Great wee gift shop too.

    Unmissable. Stunning. *****

    (5.0/5)

See all the reviews of Drummond Castle Gardens

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