Where to begin with this one?
We are blessed with the Gulf Stream, and because of it temperatures are reasonably mild - so much so, there are many surprises on what can and does grown roundabouts.
Galloway House Gardens, Garlieston:. Historic gardens created in 1740 by Lord Garlies and still maintained to his original plans. Early spring displays of snowdrops and daffodils are followed by rhododendrons, azaleas and many fine trees and shrubs. Enjoy peaceful walks through old trees to the quiet seashore and sandy bay.
Claymoddie, nr Whithorn: Robin Nicholson started to create the garden in 1970 from nothing but a stand of trees, which now provide the backdrop to a magical garden extending to 3 acres.There are quite a few steps and changes in level, but most of the site is easily accessible. Plants are also sold through Galloway Plants.
Glenwhan Gardens, Dunragit:. This 12 acres site began life as a barren south facing hillside - 29 years and much hard work later, it is a beautiful garden full of interesting plant collections from all over the world. The focus is around several lakes, with a backdrop of spectacular views over Luce Bay and the Mull of Galloway. Adjoining the garden is a new 17 acres Wildflower Walk complete with red squirrel, wildfowl and many varieties of birdlife.
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Castle Kennedy Castle & Gardens: Stunning setting between 2 lochs, this 75 acres includes landscaped terraces, avenues and gardens. Romantic 16th Century ruins, a walled garden, Lochinch Castle, a unique monkey puzzle avenue, large circular lily pond, tea room, gift shop - a full day out.
Events too throughout the year like Easter Egg Hunts, Plant Fair in May, Teddy Bears Picnic in July, open air theatre - Pride & Perjudice in August, and a Christmas Fair in November.
Dunskey Gardens: 18thC walled gardens that have been revitalised over the last 10 years and now houses over 1000 different plants. Fruit and exotic flowers growing in historic glasshouses, developing woodland gardens with loch side views. Plant sales and tea room.
Ardwell Gardens: Surrounding an 18 century Country House(not open to the public), with a formal layout round the house, blending into informality of woods and shrubberies. Spring daffodils are followed by azaleas, camellias and rhododendrons, a walled garden, summer bedding and herbaceous borders. Fine views over Luce Bay fro the pond walk.
Logan House Garden: Famous old Scottish garden with plants from all four corners of the world. Woodland garden with rolling lawns and natural rock outcrops. House is not open to the public, entry via Logan Botanic Garden.
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Cally Gardens & Nursery: This 2.7 acres walled garden was originally built in the 1770`s to provide fruit and vegetables for Cally House (now a hotel). Since the late 1980`s the garden has been replanted with a unique collection of 3500 varieties, especially grasses and perennials. Sales area, and forest trails in the Cally Oak Woods which surround the garden.
Broughton House & Gardens: Enter the world of the Glasgow Boys - this garden was created by E A Hornel - a fascinating mix of formal and relaxed. Japanese garden, several original plants including gnarled wisterias, magnificent hydrangea and lovely magnolia. Collection of sundials, querns and troughs show Hornel`s interest in stone ornaments. Views over River Dee.
Threave Garden: These spectacular gardens have been created by students of the NTS School of Practical Gardening, and are therefore constantly evolving to suit the needs of the school. In spring they are carpeted with over 200 varieties of daffodil, later fruit and vegetables, a rock garden, rose garden, heathers, conifers and herbaceous perennials. Restaurant.