The Gardens

There are stunning views of the sea from several areas in the gardens. An established Arboretum, a Tree Trail of over 160 + species winds through the gardens as does a well-signed Garden Trail. Click here for a report on the water beetles at Glenwhan in September, 2020.

Rhododendrons & Azaleas, Primulas, & Camellias, extensive water gardens, wetland for the marginal plants, heathers, herbaceous plants, rock gardens, and scree ground with many plants from the Southern hemisphere, where tender plants & shrubs flourish due to the close proximity and warming influences of the Gulf Stream.

View our extensive list of Rhododendrons here.

The gardens have also recently been recognised by Historic Environment Scotland and have been added to the inventory of Gardens and Landscapes.

Moorlands

Up above the formal gardens we have nurtured a 17 acre Moorland Walk with 120 species of wildflowers, grasses, and ferns. Venture up to the Georgian Water supply and lose yourself amongst the grasses.

It is interesting to see and compare the Native Moorland which is how the garden started out. We have mown grass paths and the walk takes about 20 mins.

The slopes are covered in a mass of bluebells which indicate there was once ancient woodland. No fertiliser has ever been used on this ground, and the native gorse harbours a variety of birdlife including yellow hammers which flit from post to post with their song ‘A little bit of bread and no cheese!’.

If you are lucky you may spot a red squirrel, amongst a variety of wildlife, including many birds of prey, insects, and hedgehogs.

Dog Friendly

Well behaved dogs on leads are most welcome at Glenwhan Gardens and also permitted in the Tearoom. We asked those with dogs to consider other visitors who may not be comfortable with dogs and to always clean up after your pup.

Plant Nursery

We propagate most of our own plants, specialising in acid loving and tender plants such as Crinodendron hookerianum (the Chilean Lantern Tree), Desfontenea spinosa (The Chilean Holly) and Primulas and Iris in variety.

If you have questions about the plants that we grow, then we can advise on growing and tending to your new plants.

We are also able to propagate plants by request which can be collected from the plant nursery. We run a range of plant propagation courses and events throughout the season. Please contact us for more information.