We visited Threave Gardens during our recent four day trip to Dumfries and Galloway and we got there at the perfect time, just as the rhododendrons and azaleas were looking their best. The nearest town to Threave is Castle Douglas.
It’s very weird but when I was there I didn’t even notice the electricity wires in this photo, or the shadow, too busy looking at the plants I suppose.
This was originally a private estate but I believe it is now used as a horticultural training centre and the students have accommodation in what was the estate house – very nice I’m sure. The house is of course in the Scots Baronial style.
There’s a wee burn running through the gardens in the Japanese section.
It wouldn’t be a Japanese Garden without a bridge and acers of course.
And a wee bit of a waterfall too. It was a boiling hot and very bright day, in fact too bright – not that I’m moaning.
If you’re into gardening you should definitely visit Threave. They have a great plant nursery there with lots of plant varieties that feature in the gardens for sale, so of course I just had to purchase some. In my experience it’s rare to be able to buy plants that you’ve actually seen growing in gardens like this one and it drives me nuts that they don’t bother to make the most of the commercial possibilities. Whoever runs Threave has got it right!
I took lots more photos but I’ll save the rest for another time.
Are they the deciduous, scented azaleas? The perfume from them can be utterly memorable.
I love Japanese gardens, so peaceful with moss, rocks, water, maples etc.
The view in the seventh photo above, with the bridge and the glimpse of the house, looks beautifully proportioned and balanced to me – very satisfying to look at.
Valerie,
I have no idea if they were deciduous but they certainly have a lovely scent, helped by the heat of the day no doubt.
Me too, I love Japanese gardens and toyed with the idea of making my garden like that but I decided the pond would be a breeding pool for midges and the fish wouldn’t be able to deal with them all. I think the view from the house to the Japanese garden must be perfect.
All of these photos are thrilling for me, the garden appreciator. I must say that I was especially struck by the beauty and lushness of the Japanese garden. Sometimes I find them a bit stark, but this one is right up my alley. Thank you!
Judith,
I’m not keen on those Japanese gardens that have the raked gravel and a few big rocks – are they Zen gardens? They have hardly any plants at all, not my idea of a garden.
You hit the nail on the head, Katrina. That’s what I meant by the “stark” style of Japanese garden. I do not like them one bit. It’s wonderful to know that there are other kinds.
Everything looks so lush and green!
Jo,
I must admit I’ve had to water it a bit this year – not that I’m complaining!