3 community gardens across Scotland
As spring takes hold, Shona Munro shares three flourishing green spaces that are hidden in plain sight
In the woodland south of this Dundee hospital sits a garden that’s open to all, offering tranquil surroundings and a focus on biodiversity and community involvement. The sensory and physic gardens reflect the medical backdrop while the colourful borders, vegetable beds and orchard indicate the team’s commitment to making this a garden to remember.
7 Tom MacDonald Avenue, Dundee, daily all day, free.
With all the distractions of the busy Royal Mile, you could easily walk past the entrance without realising what this small but perfectly formed garden offers. The Mushroom Trust developed this derelict site in the 1970s after consulting with the community and created a haven for all to enjoy. Based on historic Canongate gardens, a series of planted compartments offer year-round interest. Pick a bench to pause and enjoy this green oasis.
137 Canongate, Edinburgh, daily 7am–4.30pm, free.
The Landmark Trust restored Gargunnock House in the 1990s and it’s now holiday accommodation so the grounds are only open at certain times. The extensive woodland holds many remarkable trees and seasonal plants. Look out for the octagonal doocot and the walled garden, packed with flowers, greenhouses, veg beds, orchards. Just allow enough time to take it all in.
Gargunnock, near Stirling, Wednesdays 2–5pm, mid-April to mid-June, September and October; £5.