Generations of horticulturists have been trained at Threave’s School of Heritage Gardening, many of whom have gone on to be leaders in their fields and developed innovative garden projects around the world. Each group of students has left their legacy on the development of Threave Garden. Visitors today can enjoy the very special experience of wandering through distinct ‘garden rooms’, while admiring the ever-changing views that delight through the seasons.
Around every corner there’s a story to tell – this is the ultimate garden for hide and seek! Mixed island beds, containing a range of shrubs, trees, bulbs, grasses and herbaceous perennials, flank the paths down to the woodland garden, replete with specimen trees and mature shrubs. Beyond the trees rise the peat walls, resplendent with rhododendrons and a fine collection of Meconopsis. Cross the oriental bridge and find yourself in the rock garden and formal garden, with Victorian garden games for everyone to enjoy.
Look out for our seasonal events like the Easter Egg Hunt and the Halloween trail – both great ways to see the garden too.
In spring don’t miss Threave’s famous daffodil bank, with over 360 varieties of daffodil first planted in 1872. Go beyond the arboretum and our RHS trial beds to enter Keltonhill Wood, carpeted with snowdrops, daffodils and bluebells in season, or the rich colours of deciduous leaf. Here you can pause to admire the stunning views down to the Galloway coast or spot red squirrels at play at our purpose-built feeding station.
In late June, we’re delighted to welcome visitors to the Threave Gardening Show. This annual horticultural extravaganza brings together the very best in horticulture, from specialist plant nurseries to landscape design and flower arranging. The School of Heritage Gardening also shows off its expertise in a series of demonstrations.
