Attadale Gardens
South side of Loch Carron on A890, opposite village of Lochcarron, IV54 8YX
Attadale Gardens was developed by artist Nicky Macpherson after serious storms brought down its huge old trees at the end of 1980s. Using the mountains as a backdrop and with the pond already present, over 30 years she has created a wonderful garden designed to be enjoyed by locals and visitors from further afield.
It was a chance for a new beginning with over 1000 new trees planted and a wonderful water garden created along the entrance drive. It is richly planted with water-loving plants from around the world; huge gunnera; pretty, colourful primula; irises; and many more reflected in black pools with little Monet-style bridges to wander over.
Nearly 20 amazing and varied sculptures are scattered throughout the gardens, which children enjoy searching for, whilst parents relax on a bench and admire the landscape and views. There is a tremendous selection of very old rhododendrons and sweet-smelling azaleas at this time of year; many of these were planted before the First World War and continue to flourish, growing up again when blown down in previous storms. Two Wollemi pines flourish above the upper path amongst the rhododendrons.
The Japanese garden was created to solve problems of regular flooding which prevented grass from growing. Several typical features of Japanese gardens are included. An impressive kitchen garden provides a contrast with rows of beautifully kept vegetables. Friendly gardeners are happy to stop and chat, and the Polytunnel has plants for sale, for visitors to help themselves. Similarly, the DIY Tearoom has delicious home-baking for visitors to enjoy, as well as a cup of tea or coffee.
Attadale Gardens is a member of garden tourism group Discover Scottish Gardens and a partner of the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). You can visit the garden by train, as Attadale station is directly across the road, on the Inverness to Kyle line.
Website: www.attadalegardens.com
Telephone: 01520 722603
Opening times: 10.00am - 5.30pm
Admission costs: £8.00 Adults, £6.00 Seniors and £1 Child
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