Castle Kennedy Gardens

Castle Kennedy Gardens Visitor attraction in Scotland's South West, with 75 acres of stunning gardens, romantic ruins, holiday cottages & Lochinch Castle

Family home to the 14th Earl and Countess of Stair, the Gardens were the inspiration of the 2nd Earl of Stair in the 1730s and are famous for colourful displays of Rhododendrons, Azaleas and Embothriums, many rare and exotic plants, 21 Champion Trees and a number of spectacular avenues and the romantic ruins of 16th Century Castle Kennedy. An elaborate series of terraces and land sculptures can b

e found throughout the Gardens forming stunning patterns of curves and banks. Despite their contemporary look and feel, these were constructed in the 1730s using men with carts and horse-drawn equipment to move and mould the landscape. The stunning Avenues in the Gardens were originally planted with specimen seeds given by famous botanical explorer Joseph Ho**er. Each Avenue was planted with a single type of tree, many of which can still be seen today. These include the 150-year-old Monkey Puzzle Avenue, the Thuja Avenue and the Dettingen Avenue which is lined with evergreen oaks. The beautiful two-acre Circular Pond filled with rare Victorian water lilies is also a highlight.

Blue skies call for cold drinks and great food! ☀️ Whether you’re stopping mid-adventure for a light, seasonal lunch or ...
12/06/2026

Blue skies call for cold drinks and great food! ☀️ Whether you’re stopping mid-adventure for a light, seasonal lunch or grabbing a refreshing iced drink, the Tea Room is your perfect summer pit stop.

Fancy dining al fresco? Speak to our team about ordering a picnic to find your own perfect, shaded spot out on the lawns! 🧺

Pause, unplug, and just breathe. 🧘‍♀️ Wednesdays' between 1pm and 4pm, we invite you to experience the deep tranquility ...
11/06/2026

Pause, unplug, and just breathe. 🧘‍♀️ Wednesdays' between 1pm and 4pm, we invite you to experience the deep tranquility of our Walled Garden for . We step back from the noise of the everyday to simply appreciate the rustle of the trees and the quiet beauty around us.

If you capture a moment of peace on your camera while visiting, we’d love for you to share your serene snaps with us. 🌿

Unlock the very best of summer with unlimited access! 🔑 Becoming a Friend of Castle Kennedy Gardens isn't just about a m...
10/06/2026

Unlock the very best of summer with unlimited access!
🔑 Becoming a Friend of Castle Kennedy Gardens isn't just about a membership card - it’s your family’s passport to a season full of fresh air and exploration.

Enjoy endless daily visits, early-bird event notifications, and fantastic discounts to use in our Shop and Tea Room. Invest in a year of beautiful days out together.

Ready to plan your classic Scottish summer getaway? 🏡 Our collection of charming holiday cottages provides a peaceful, i...
07/06/2026

Ready to plan your classic Scottish summer getaway? 🏡

Our collection of charming holiday cottages provides a peaceful, idyllic base to explore everything Castle Kennedy Gardens and the wider, rugged landscape of Southern Scotland have to offer.

Wake up to nothing but birdsong, crisp country air, and world-class heritage right on your doorstep.

Summer weeks are filling up fast - secure your next holiday break with us today.

Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere

We are delighted to be opening our gates tomorrow, Sunday, 7th June in partnership with Scotland's Gardens Scheme Our 75...
06/06/2026

We are delighted to be opening our gates tomorrow, Sunday, 7th June in partnership with Scotland's Gardens Scheme

Our 75 acres are absolutely bursting with early summer life, from the vibrant, towering rhododendrons to the peaceful loch-side trails. It’s the perfect day to gather the family, enjoy a beautiful walk through history, and make a meaningful difference.

Make a Day of It:

🎺 Stranraer Brass Band is performing!

🚶‍♂️ Explore our historic landscapes from 10am to 5pm.

🍰 Stop by the Tea Room for fresh barista coffee, lunch, or our famous baked treats (no ticket required to dine!).

🐾 Bring your four-legged companions - our outdoor seating features secure dog anchors and water bowls.

Come and share the beauty of our landscape for a fantastic cause. We can't wait to welcome you!

Stranraer Brass

05/06/2026

Performing Sunday 7 June, this is the last performance given by Stranraer Brass in June 2022 for the Platinum Jubilee. Come along and join us.

Stranraer Brass is to play at Castle Kennedy Gardens in aid of Scotland’s Garden Scheme Open Day, on Sunday 7th June at ...
05/06/2026

Stranraer Brass is to play at Castle Kennedy Gardens in aid of Scotland’s Garden Scheme Open Day, on Sunday 7th June at 12pm.

All the admission proceeds from the day will be donated by Castle Kennedy Gardens to Stranraer Brass and the Scotland Gardens Scheme charities.

Castle Kennedy Gardens are in full flower, with spectacular rhododendrons and azaleas displays to see. In addition the Tea Room will be open with delicious cakes and scones, along with the plant centre and gift shop.

Stranraer Brass is a community-focused brass band based in Dumfries and Galloway. Under the Musical Director of Angela Miller, Stranraer Brass consists of a Senior Band, a Training Band and a highly successful Junior ensemble which previously won the prestigious Young Musicians Ensemble of the Year title.

Stranraer Brass performs three major concerts annually, alongside local galas, Remembrance Services and Christmas events.

Open all day 10am to 5pm.

📷 From the last performance given by Stranraer Brass in June 2022 for the Platinum Jubilee.

Scotland's Gardens Scheme

✨ We can’t believe it’s already been a couple of months since Easter! One of our absolute highlights is always welcoming...
04/06/2026

✨ We can’t believe it’s already been a couple of months since Easter! One of our absolute highlights is always welcoming the incredible team from KG Hawks to the Gardens. Watching these magnificent birds against the backdrop of the ruins is unforgettable.

We’re already counting down to their return this summer! What’s your favourite event memory at the Gardens? 👇🦅

The ultimate post-walk reward. 🍰☕ After finding your favourite paths through our flourishing grounds, make your way to t...
03/06/2026

The ultimate post-walk reward. 🍰☕

After finding your favourite paths through our flourishing grounds, make your way to the Tea Room to round off your visit. Our counters are fully stocked with baked cakes and your favourite barista-crafted coffees.

Quick reminder: You don’t need a garden admission ticket to visit the Tea Room! Pop in for your afternoon catch-up or a quick sweet treat anytime.

Explore our Gardens and support incredible charities! 🌸We are delighted to be opening our gates on Sunday, 7th June in p...
02/06/2026

Explore our Gardens and support incredible charities! 🌸

We are delighted to be opening our gates on Sunday, 7th June in partnership with Scotland's Gardens Scheme

For this special open day, our gate and Tea Room allocations goes directly to supporting Scotland's Gardens Scheme's wonderful beneficiary charities - including Maggie's, The Queen's Nursing Institute Scotland (QNIS), and Perennial, as well as our own chosen local charity - Homestart.

BONUS! The Stranraer Brass Band will be playing so don't miss it.

Address

Castle Kennedy Gardens
Stranraer
DG98SJ

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 5pm
Tuesday 10am - 5pm
Wednesday 10am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 9am - 5pm
Sunday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+441776702024

Website

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