Gardens
Our magnificent gardens are the perfect place to explore and relax. Take in panoramic views, marvel at impressive trees and enjoy colourful plants in our peaceful oasis.
The gardens were originally laid out by Lord Macdonald in the early 19th century. They were later restored and developed by our charitable trust for everyone to enjoy. Today you can wander amidst 40 acres of trees, shrubs and flowers. A surprising number of exotic varieties thrive in our mild, sheltered microclimate.
Waterlily ponds, herbaceous borders and terrace walks provide a tranquil place to sit or stroll. Magnificent trees, many over 100 years old, tower above carpets of bluebells and orchids in spring and summer. Our Victorian arboretum has some particularly fine specimens, mostly planted in the 1870s. We have recently started planting a new generation of trees through our Trees for the Future initiative, in collaboration with the International Conifer Conservation Programme.
Trees are one of the glories of Armadale Castle Gardens.
Planting a new generation of trees in the Victorian Arboretum
At the centre of the Gardens sit the picturesque ruins of Armadale Castle, the former manor house of the Macdonald chiefs. Imagine its glory days as you take in panoramic vistas over the Sound of Sleat.
Parts of the garden date back to the 1790s, when the original mansion house was built. Substantial remodelling took place in the 1820s when the area in front of the new Castle building was levelled to enhance the fine views across to the mainland. The Gothic bridge, a Historic Environment Scotland designated monument, was built in 1825.
Rhododendrons in May
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