Benmore Botanic Garden is a stunning garden located a short drive or twenty minute walk from Ruskin Lodges. The garden is managed by the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and is home to a wide variety of plants from around the world, including many rare and endangered species.
The garden covers an area of approximately 120 acres and is set within a beautiful valley surrounded by hills and forests. There are several distinct areas within the garden, including the Benmore Glen, which features a collection of trees and shrubs native to the temperate regions of the world; the Pinetum, which is home to a collection of conifers; and the Fernery, which features a collection of ferns and other plants that thrive in moist, shady environments. There are shelters including the traditional Bhutanese and Chilean pavilions where visitors can sit with a thermos or picnic and take in the surrounding vistas.
One of the highlights of the garden is the Giant Redwood Avenue, which features a collection of towering redwood trees that were planted in the late 19th century. These trees, which are native to California, are some of the tallest trees in the UK and are a sight to behold. The garden also has a collection of rhododendrons, camellias, and other flowering shrubs, as well as a variety of water plants in the Water Garden.
In addition to its beautiful plants, Benmore Botanic Garden also has a number of facilities for visitors to enjoy, including a cafe, a gift shop, and a plant center. The garden is also home to a number of sculptures and other works of art, which are scattered throughout the grounds.
Benmore Botanic Garden is a popular destination for visitors to the Cowal Peninsula, and is a great place to spend a day exploring the beauty of the natural world. The garden is open to the public from April to October, and admission is charged. In addition to self-guided tours, the garden also offers guided tours, workshops, and other educational events throughout the season. Although technically closed November to February, the gardens remain open (but don’t charge!) although some areas maybe closed for maintenance work.
Benmore Botanic Garden is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Ruskin Lodges. With its beautiful plants, stunning natural setting, and a variety of facilities and activities for visitors, the garden is a place where you can relax, learn, and be inspired by the beauty of the natural world.
Click here for more information about the gardens.