Garden of the Season – Ardmaddy
Walled Garden and Wildlife in Argyll
Ardmaddy Castle occupies one of the most picturesque spots on the coast of Argyll. It is set above a small bay overlooking the Slate Islands, which provided roofs for Glasgow’s tenements throughout the 19th century before the slate deposits ran out. And while the castle itself has been altered many times since it began life as a tower house in the 15th century, with new wings added, others removed and the dairy converted into living accommodation, the views and the spectacular sunsets that are visible from atop the rock on which it stands, remain gloriously unchanged.
This is an unspoilt corner of Scotland, rich in woodland, birdlife and wildlife. Golden eagles sometimes glide overhead and otters play along the shoreline, and the garden that has been created here is a satisfying mix of semi-formal areas, shrubberies that have grown to exceptional heights in the mild, maritime climate, and beautiful woodland that in autumn is renowned for its colours.
Where the walled garden now sits there was once a barracks, erected as part of efforts to subdue the Highlands after the 1745 rebellion. Today it is a peaceful and productive space, its old stone walls covered in climbers, and the fruit, vegetables and flowers that in season are grown in well-tended rows, are available for sale to visitors.
Ardmaddy is open all year round and there is interest here in every season, including plentiful berries and hips to brighten the branches as the leaves disappear.
From snowdrops in February to wild orchids in early summer, there is a constant succession of flowers to be enjoyed. Some of the best of these grow around Ardmaddy’s ponds and burns, including Candelabra primulas, Irises and Rodgersias.
Hydrangeas also flourish here and along the woodland walk are some that have reached 20 metres in height.
The garden is approached across an old arched footbridge, one of several on the estate.
The estate is dog-friendly, making it a perfect place for a walk on a crisp autumn day. Some areas are wheelchair and push-chair accessible and there are also holiday cottages for those who plan on staying a little longer.
One of the best ways to enjoy the garden is from the sea and Ardmaddy has a selection of boats that can be rented by visitors who want to explore its coastline and the plentiful sea life that swims in its water.
Details:
Ardmaddy Castle Gardens are open daily, 9am – 6pm.
Tickets: £5
Tel: 01852 300 353
The garden sits off the A816, 14 miles south of Oban.
Courtesy of The Herald
