As well as designing the house, Robert Lorimer also designed the 113 hectares of landscape at Hill of Tarvit, primarily with reference to its relation to the house. His aim was to enfold the façade of the house in a totally green setting. On the south side of the house, the sloping hillside allowed him to create extensive terracing. With its imposing central double staircase, the terrace gave views of Mr Sharp’s golf course beyond the topiary at the base which, along with the sunken rose garden, was added at the Sharps’ request.
Shelterbelts and walls create a localised micro-climate that allow less hardy plants to thrive here. Beyond the formal gardens are areas of more naturalistic planting.
Woodland walks are accessed from different areas in the grounds and link back to the mansion. Waymarked paths lead through the wider estate, one of which leads to the top of Tarvit Hill (211m), with magnificent views over the surrounding countryside.
The Centenary Walk gives views of the house and hill from the south. It also leads to the impressive doocot, probably dating from the late 18th or early 19th century. The pigeons in the doocot provided eggs in spring and summer, and fresh meat in winter before days of refrigeration.
