Where to go this Mother's Day?

Castle Kennedy and Gardens, Wigtownshire

Romantically situated, these famous 75 acres of landscaped gardens are located on an isthmus surrounded by two large natural lochs. At one end the ruined Castle Kennedy overlooks a beautiful herbaceous walled garden with Lochinch Castle at the other end. With over 300 years of planting there is an impressive collection of rare trees, rhododendrons, exotic shrubs, and featuring many spectacular Champion Trees (tallest or largest of their type). The stunning snowdrop walks, daffodils, spring flowers, rhododendron and magnolia displays, and herbaceous borders make this a 'must visit' garden throughout the year.

Open: 3 February - 31 March (Saturdays & Sundays), 10am - 5pm

Glenwhan Gardens

Described as one of the most beautiful gardens in Scotland, situated at 300 feet, overlooking Luce Bay and the Mull of Galloway, with clear views to the Isle of Man. Thirty-six years ago there was wild moorland, but with dedication and vision, you can now see glorious collections of plants from around the world. There is colour in all seasons and the winding paths, well placed seats, and varied sculptures, focusing around small lakes, add to the tranquil atmosphere. There is a 17 acre moorland wildflower walk, the chance to see red squirrels and a well marked Tree Trail.

Open: 1 January - 31 December, 10am - 5pm

Braco Castle

A 19th century landscaped garden with a plethora of wonderful and interesting trees, shrubs, bulbs and plants. An old garden for all seasons that has been extensively expanded over the last 26 years. The partly walled garden is approached on a rhododendron and tree lined path featuring an ornamental pond. Spectacular spring bulbs, exuberant shrub and herbaceous borders, and many ornamental trees are all enhanced by the spectacular views across the park to the Ochils. From snowdrops through to vibrant autumn colour this garden is a gem. Look out for the embothrium in June, hoheria in August, eucryphia in September and an interesting collection of rhododendrons and azaleas with long flowering season.

Open: 28 January - 31 October, 10am - 5pm

Gargunnock House Garden

Large mature garden five miles from Stirling, with a walled garden, well established house garden, woodland walks with species and hybrid rhododendrons, massed plantings of azaleas and wonderful specimen trees.

Snowdrops in February/March, over 40 varieties of daffodils in bloom in April and the glorious display of azaleas and rhododendrons in May.

In Autumn, stunning colours from the many wonderful trees along the drive to the house. The three acre walled garden contains perennial borders, cut flower beds, greenhouses, fruit orchard and newly planted arboretum of specimen trees.

Open: 27 January - 11 March, 11am - 3:30pm

Floors Castle

The gardens are situated within the grounds of Floors Castle. Meander through to the formal Millennium Parterre and soak up the spectacular visions of colour, texture and the most delicious scents around the four herbaceous borders in one of the finest Victorian kitchen gardens in Scotland.

New perennial gardens, fruit cage, Tapestry Garden & glasshouse access. Terrace Cafe, Castle Kitchen deli shop and play area. Explore the grounds which offer woodland and riverside walks from Easter to October.

Open: 1 January - 31 December, 11am - 5pm