Gardens open up to welcome back visitors in Ellon
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
The easing of lockdown means a new start and a new gardener at Ellon Castle Gardens.
As Covid-19 restrictions are lifted, families seeking local, safe diversions need look no further than Ellon’s own ‘secret’ garden.
In the heart of Ellon, you will find the most amazing walled garden, a place of huge interest - archaeological, historical, horticultural, botanical and a haven for naturalists too.
Birdlife ranges from the smallest wren to buzzards which daily circle the garden.
Red squirrels have established a home and can be spotted scampering around the gardens which house one of the largest collections of ancient yew trees in the country, a collection which is being increased by the planting of a further 140 trees to form a magnificent restored yew hedge.
Overseeing the work of a small army of volunteer gardeners is newly appointed gardener Ann Forret who has been beavering away at various tasks.
Tightening up of Covid regulations last December had denied volunteers access to gather and garden at the site but with the easing of restrictions, the site was able to open up this weekend.
Ann herself has plans and ideas aplenty and already the gardens have seen the addition of a new nature trail.
Ellon Castle Gardens are managed by a board of trustees but run by volunteers and ,embers of the public are invited to visit for a small entrance fee and families and well-controlled dogs are also welcomed.
Free car parking is close by in the old Ellon Academy car park.
Once this local corner of such peace and tranquillity has been first visited, the option of becoming a member of Ellon Castle Gardens is irresistible.
The Gardens are open Saturdays and Sundays 10am to 4pm.
Please use the online booking system via https://www.elloncastlegardens.net/.
