Mount Stuart Garden

Mount Stuart is a big estate garden on an island, and getting there is part of the fun. The grounds surround Mount Stuart House, the extravagant Victorian Gothic mansion built for the 3rd Marquess of Bute, and they spread through some 300 acres of gardens and woodland on the east coast of the Isle of Bute. The island's mild, sheltered west-coast climate allows plants to grow here that would struggle in much of mainland Scotland, which is why exotic planting is such a feature.

A walk round usually combines several quite different areas. The rock garden shows off plants that like sharp drainage and rocky pockets. The kitchen garden brings productive growing and ornamental planting together. Beyond these, paths lead into the woodland, so you can choose a short loop near the house or a longer walk through the estate. Take time to look back at the house from the grounds, as its red sandstone Gothic front is a remarkable sight among the trees.

Gardeners will come away with ideas for sheltered coastal gardens, for rock garden planting and for mixing flowers and food in a kitchen garden. Mount Stuart is a member of Historic Houses and an RHS Partner Garden, so it is well set up for visitors, and the house is worth seeing too if it is open on the day of your visit. Bring layers and waterproofs, as island weather can change quickly, and check the official information for current facilities, ferry times and what is open before you travel.