Aberdour Castle and Gardens
Aberdour Castle, Fife KY3 0SL
Boasting gorgeous views of the Firth of Forth and Inchkeith Island, Aberdour Castle and Gardens rest between two beaches, silver sands and black sands. The walled garden, created around 1630 by the 8th Earl of Morton, is home to many moments of peace, joy and tranquillity. It offers protection and shelter from harsh weather conditions, with the walls acting as radiators of heat both day and night.
The property came into state care in 1924, and today, it is under the guardianship of Historic Environment Scotland.
In 1690, the 10th Earl embarked on re-stocking the gardens, and the gardener was supplied with three dozen apple trees, followed a year later by four apricot and two peach trees. Today, there are seventeen varieties of apples in the well-loved orchard. In the autumn, visitors are welcome to fill a bag of apples to take home with them in exchange for a small donation.
Bursts of colour appear in the walled garden in summer as the red Crocosmia blooms and the Rudbeckia winks its sooty black eyes. Three unusual cotoneaster trees stand guard at the corners of the walled garden and have in the past offered a resting place to a flock of waxwings. Down by the Dour burn, which runs past the castle, a Kingfisher has been known to tease the keen bird watcher with flashes of turquoise. Nepeta (catmint) tempts the local garden cat and swallows play “chicken” with the lawn mower.
Cotton thistles are a favourite selfie backdrop for many visitors, as their giant stature offers a dramatic picture. Globe thistle is also a popular favourite as they pop with a spikey round sphere. Kids of all ages love the chocolate cosmos and the smell is known to tempt the weary wanderer into the cafe for refreshments.
Website: https: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/aberdour-castle-and-gardens/
Telephone: 01383860519
Opening times: Summer: Monday-Sunday, 9.30 - 17.30 (Last entry 17.00)
Winter: Saturday – Wednesday, 10 – 16.00 (Last entry 15.30)
Admission costs: Adult £6, Concession £4.80, Under 5’s go free
Garden of the Week is in association with Discover Scottish Gardens. For more information, advice and day-out ideas, visit discoverscottishgardens.org
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