23-07-2025
The Scottish garden with beach that was named 'best seaside garden' in the country
Just a short walk from the attraction is a stunning bay.
Scotland is home to countless idyllic and colourful gardens. If you are looking for a day out in picturesque surroundings, you can't go wrong with any of them.
However, for something that extra bit special, the country also features many gardens nestled along the coast. A seaside garden is perfect for those looking to enjoy some spectacular coastal scenery.
As reported by the Daily Record, the best seaside gardens in Scotland were recently named by Discover Scottish Gardens. Among the gardens that were singled out by the experts is Arbigland House and Gardens in Dumfries and Galloway.
Arbigland House is an 18th century mansion located just outside of the village of Kirkbean. It is surrounded by 24 acres of woodland gardens.
The house was constructed in the Classical Adams-style by William Craik, who introduced the Agricultural Revolution to Scotland. Those visiting the estate's lovely gardens can book a tour of the house's incredible and historic principal rooms.
According to the Arbigland House and Gardens website, a lot of the trees that line the Broad Walk from the main house are more than 200 years old. At the end of the walk, there is a picturesque viewpoint across to the Lake District fells.
While the gardens are primarily made up of woodland, there are a few formal sections. These include a Sunken Garden with roses and a Pavilion that was built by Italian Prisoners of War.
Elsewhere, there is a Sundial Garden. Here visitors can find a sundial that dates back to 1815 and commemorates the Battle of Waterloo.
Other scenic spots in the grounds are the Well Head Garden and the Japanese Garden. The former is home to unusual plants and trees, while the Japanese Garden features a variety of acers and cherries.
The gardens run all the way down from the mansion to a beach that offers panoramic views across the Solway Firth to the Cumbrian Hills.
As well as being recognised by Discover Scottish Gardens, the House and Gardens won a Travellers' Choice Award in 2024. According to the travel guidance platform, it is also one of the best days out around Dumfries.
Arbigland House and Gardens has also received very positive feedback from day trippers. On Google, the attraction has a rating of 4.8 out of five based on 49 reviews.
One tourist posted: "Lovely peaceful gardens and walks. Staff very helpful and friendly, especially Wayne."
Another wrote: "Beautiful garden and a must to visit if you are in the area. There is seating by the beach carved out of logs so it's a great place to sit and have your lunch."
