Crathes Castle, Garden & Estate
Crathes Castle, Garden & Estate, Kincardineshire, AB31 5QJ
Crathes Castle was home to the Burnett family for 400 years before coming to the care of the National trust for Scotland in 1952. In that time, it has benefited from a passionate team who have constantly developed it into the outstanding horticultural jewel it is today.
The estate is 214 hectares; the castle sits on a gentle slope, which runs down to the River Dee with the Hill of Fare to the rear. The centre piece is undoubtedly the walled garden, which sits directly below the castle – a feature rarely seen, as most walled gardens were removed from sight in the 18th Century. This instantly gives a feeling of intimacy. Fantastically enriched soils and a unique microclimate allow a huge range of plants, some rarely seen in north-east Scotland, to thrive.
The walled garden consists of distinct upper and lower sections, which provide visitors with the opportunity to experience a true genius blend of constant garden development. Yew hedges dating from 1702 form a distinct and recognisable backbone to the upper garden. These combine with bold perennials and annuals to adorn the garden with great character, along with sculptures, historic topiaries and a fountain.
The lower garden, formally a vegetable garden, was redesigned extensively by Sir James and Lady Sybil Burnett in the 20th Century. Their daring vision and tireless energy have gifted us an arts-and-crafts-style masterpiece. It has been split into a series of separate garden rooms with an almost exhaustible collection of herbaceous and woody plants that offer a year-round interest of flowers, foliage and design. The restored Victorian display house is also a must see at any time of year.
Website: www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/crathes-castle
Telephone: 01330 844525
Opening times: Daily 10:30am to 5pm
Admission costs: Family £16.50, Adult £6.50, Concession £5
Garden of the Week is in association with Discover Scottish Gardens. For more information, advice and day-out ideas, visit discoverscottishgardens.org
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