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Castle Kennedy, Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland

BRIEF HISTORY
Castle Kennedy & Gardens is one of Scotland’s finest gardens. The inspiration of the 2nd Earl of Stair in the 1730s, the gardens are a magical landscape created on an isthmus between two large natural lochs. They extend to 75 acres of carefully landscaped terraces and avenues, and contain the romantic ruined 16th Century Castle Kennedy at one end and the 19th Century Lochinch Castle, the home of the Earl and Countess of Stair, at the other. Perfect for exploring, the gardens are famous for the colourful displays of rhododendrons, azaleas and embothriums. Being close to the sea on two dises, the gadens benefit from the Gulf Stream and are able to support many tender and exotic plants.

 
HORTICULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS
The Avenues in the gardens were originally planted with specimen seeds given by Joseph Hooker. Each avenue was planted with a single type of tree, many of which can still be seen today. These include the 150 year old Monkey Puzzle Avenue, the Thuja Avenue and the Dettingen Avenue which is lined with Evergreen Oaks. The beautiful two acre circular pond filled with rare Victorian water lilies is also a highlight.

The gardens are home to a large number impressive champion trees. A Champion Tree is the tallest or oldest or most massive example of its kind recorded by the Tree Register. These include 6 Btritish Champions, 11 Scottish and 25 for Dumfries and Galloway.

OTHER THINGS TO SEE & DO
Throughout the year there are a number of events and activities taking place at the Gardens. These include activities for children and families such as pond-dipping, bug-hunting and an Easter Egg Bonanza as well as Open Air Theatre Productions and other events. For more details please visit www.castlekennedygardens.co.uk
 
LOCAL AREA
We are three miles from Stranraer, with its Museum, restaurants and pubs, at Castle Kennedy in Dumfries and Galloway. Dumfries and Galloway is one of the best kept secrets in Scotland with beautiful countryside, beaches and plenty to see and do whatever your interests.

PLACES TO STAY
Local hotels, B&Bs and other Accommodation.
Visit Dumfries & Galloway

HOW TO FIND US
Castle Kennedy & Gardens is 3 miles east of Stranraer on the A75. Sat Nav location is DG9 8SJ

OPENING TIMES
Gardens:
Open weekends from 10am until 5pm - February, March and October
Open daily from 10am until 5pm - 1st April until 30th September

Tearoom, Shop and Plant Centre: Open weekends from 10am until 5pm - February, March and October

Open daily from 10am until 5pm - 1st April until 30th September

ENTRY
Admission Fees: £5.00 Adults, £1.50 Children, £4.00 Concessions, Family Ticket (2 adults and 2 children) £12.00

FOOD & DRINK
A charming Tearoom is open from 10am until 5pm daily from 1st April until 30th September and from 10am until 5pm on weekends during February, March and October.

POSTCODE FOR CAR SAT NAVs
DG9 8SJ

FRIENDS/VOLUNTEERS
If you would like to join our Friends Scheme please collect an application form from the entrance to the gardens or email info@castlekennedygardens.co.uk

WEBSITE
www.castlekennedygardens.co.uk