Places to Visit in Ellon,, Aberdeenshire
Pitmedden Garden
National Trust For Scotland
Ellon,
Aberdeenshire
AB41 7PD
Tel: +44(0)1651 842352
Fax: +44(0)1651 843188
It’s hard to imagine a garden today being planted on such an extravagant scale. The heart of the property is the formal walled garden originally laid out in 1675 by Sir Alexander Seton. In the 1950s, the Trust set about re-creating the gardens following designs dating from the 17th century. Today, Pitmedden features over 5 miles of box hedging arranged in intricate patterns to form six parterres. These parterres are filled with some 40,000 plants bursting with colour in the summer months.
Extensive herbaceous borders provide an abundance of colour and texture throughout the season and the spectacular lupin border is not to be missed. Two new borders were added in 2004. Honeysuckle, jasmine and roses create a succession of fragrances, while fountains, topiary, sundials and a fascinating herb garden add to the sense of discovery around the walled garden. If you’re a keen gardener, Pitmedden is a great source of inspiration and ideas.
Over 80 varieties of apple trees adorn the high granite walls, offering a spectacular show of blossom and scent in spring. On the last Sunday in September we hold harvest celebrations with dancing and music, and you can buy fruits harvested from the gardens.
The adjacent Museum of Farming Life boasts an extensive collection of domestic and agricultural artefacts of a bygone era. For the more adventurous, the woodland walk extends for a mile and a half round the estate and takes in ponds, rhododendrons, a lime kiln and a nature hut with information about the wider estate. The picnic area is an ideal spot to stop for lunch, and you can even enjoy a game of boules on our own pétanque piste.
With Disabled Access: Yes
Facilities
Historic House, Gardens, Picnic Area, Car Park, Private Group Tours, School Tours Available,
In case of alteration, please check prices, opening times and any specific important information before booking or visiting