These historic, seaside gardens occupy a unique, sheltered position on Wigtown Bay, close to the village of Garlieston. Dating back to 1740, they are set in over 50 acres of designed parkland and complement the beauty of the natural landscape.

The gardens offer a fascinating network of formal garden paths and informal natural woodland walks taking in a wide range of scenery and incorporating a variety of interesting plants from wild flowers and shrubs to magnificent old trees, including many exotic species that benefit from an unusually mild climate owing to the Gulf Stream.

Take your time to relax and enjoy the seaside walks and stunning views across Wigtown Bay. The gardens and woodlands lead directly onto the seashore where you can enjoy the large sandy beach at your leisure. Beyond you can follow the coastal path to view the spectacular heights of Cruggleton Cliffs and the ruin of Cruggleton Castle.

In early spring the gardens burst into life with an abundance of activity from the first bulbs and blossoms to the chorus of birdsong

The carpet of snowdrops is spectacular — there are more than 20 varieties, which are followed by daffodils, bluebells and the extensive collection of species rhododendra and azaleas.

There is a mature Handkerchief Tree (Davidia involucrata) that flowers in late spring sharing impressive company with the species magnolias. In late summer the Eucryphia ensures that we are seldom without flowers.

The walled garden, built on an impressive scale covering nearly six acres, unfortunately takes an equally impressive sum to maintain it. Although we are currently in the process of applying for funding to refurbish the glasshouses and walls, the condition of some of the structures poses an unacceptable degree of risk to the general public, so it is closed for safety reasons. However, restricted access to view the structures from the outside may be arranged, but strictly by prior arrangement. Any viewing will be accompanied by an authorised guide. In the meantime, we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience.