LOCHINCH

The Castle, built in the Scottish Baronial
style in the mid-19th Century, is still
home to the Earl and Countess
of Stair and their family.
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Month: March 2015

EASTER IS EGG-STRA SPECIAL AT CASTLE KENNEDY GARDENS

31/03/2015
NEWS

Egg-stra fun can be found at Castle Kennedy Gardens from this Thursday when kids are invited to enjoy an Easter Egg Bonanza taking place over…

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    castlekennedygardens

    Performing Sunday 7 June, this is the last perfor Performing  Sunday 7 June, this is the last performance given by Stranraer Brass in June 2022 for the Platinum Jubilee. Come along and join us.
    ✨ We can’t believe it’s already been a couple of m ✨ We can’t believe it’s already been a couple of months since Easter! One of our absolute highlights is always welcoming the incredible team from KG Hawks to the Gardens. Watching these magnificent birds against the backdrop of the ruins is unforgettable.

We’re already counting down to their return this summer! What’s your favourite event memory at the Gardens? 👇🦅

#CastleKennedyGardens #GoldenHour #SummerEvenings #ScottishGardens #ThrowbackThursday
    The ultimate post-walk reward. 🍰☕ After finding The ultimate post-walk reward. 🍰☕ 

After finding your favourite paths through our flourishing grounds, make your way to the Tea Room to round off your visit. Our counters are fully stocked with baked cakes and your favourite barista-crafted coffees.

Quick reminder: You don’t need a garden admission ticket to visit the Tea Room! Pop in for your afternoon catch-up or a quick sweet treat anytime.

#CastleKennedyGardens #TeaRoom #empirebiscuits #GardenCafe
    Instagram post 18160234573457342 Instagram post 18160234573457342
    June has officially arrived, and the gardens are p June has officially arrived, and the gardens are putting on an absolute masterclass in summer colour! 🌸✨ 

From our vibrant, towering borders to those quiet, hidden vistas by the lochs, there is a new masterpiece waiting around every single corner. We are open daily from 10am to 5pm - the perfect excuse to step away from the busy week and get lost in nature's finest season.

#CastleKennedyGardens #JuneBlooms #SummerGardens #ExploreScotland
    Ever wondered about our Monkey Puzzle Avenue? 🐒 Pl Ever wondered about our Monkey Puzzle Avenue? 🐒 Planted in the 19th century, these unique trees (Araucaria araucana) are one of our most photographed features. They were some of the first introduced to Scotland from South America.

#MonkeyPuzzle #TreeMagic #VictorianGardens
    Ever wonder why our hills and banks look so... per Ever wonder why our hills and banks look so... perfect? 📐

In the 1730s, the 2nd Earl of Stair didn't just plant a few trees - he redesigned the entire landscape with military precision! Using his own regiment of Royal Scots Greys (dragoons) and their horses, he sculpted the 75-acre isthmus into the earthworks you see today.

Those dramatic grassy terraces and long, straight canals weren't made by nature; they were engineered by soldiers nearly 300 years ago to create the most grand vistas in Scotland. Walk in the footsteps of history this Saturday! 🎖️

#GardenHistory #LandscapeDesign #ScottishHeritage
    Step through the door and into another world! ✨ Th Step through the door and into another world! ✨ The Walled Garden is our favourite magical spot for a reason - it feels like a scene straight out of a storybook.

How many of these magical features can your little explorers find today?

🚪 The Green Door: Is it the secret entrance to a world of flowers?

🗿 The Stone Sentinels: Are they ancient plinths guarding the paths?

🌸 The Giant Rhodies: Flowers so big they look like they belong in a jungle!

🏰 The Ruin View: A peek-a-boo window through the trees back to the old Castle.

#SecretGarden #MagicalMoments #CastleKennedyGardens #FamilyChecklist
    🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Your "Outlandish" Escape Awaits in Souther 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Your "Outlandish" Escape Awaits in Southern Scotland
Ever dreamed of stepping into the world of Claire and Jamie? 🌿✨

Did you know? Castle Kennedy Gardens has a starring role beyond the blossoms - we were a filming location for the hit series Outlander! Our dramatic, sculpted landscapes provided the perfect historic backdrop for scenes in the show. Now, you can make our grounds the setting for your very own Scottish adventure. What will you find at our "Craigh Na Dun"?

As the Gardens transition from the vibrant blooms of spring into the long, golden days of summer, there is no better time to book your next holiday break. Our charming holiday cottages offer the ultimate getaway from the everyday. Imagine retreating to a room as cozy and beautifully appointed as this one after a day of exploring the wild beauty of the south.

Why choose us for your next escape?

The Perfect Base: We are ideally situated for you to explore the hidden gems of Southern Scotland, from rugged coastlines to rolling hills.

Nature on Your Doorstep: Wake up to birdsong and enjoy the rare privilege of having 75 acres of world-class gardens as your back garden.

Historic Comfort: Our cottages combine traditional charm with all the modern comforts you need for a relaxing break.

Whether you are embarking on your own Outlander pilgrimage or simply looking for a peaceful summer getaway, our cottages provide the perfect sanctuary.

📅 Spring and Summer dates are filling up fast! Visit our website to book your Southern Scotland escape today.

#Outlander #OutlanderLocations #VisitScotland #SouthernScotland
    Last chance for Easter Trail fun this weekend! Th Last chance for Easter Trail fun this weekend!  They conclude on Sunday, the 19th. 

If you have not had a chance to experience this fun activity for the whole family, hop into Castle Kennedy Gardens this weekend.  We are just off the A75!
    While you're having family fun, keep your eyes pee While you're having family fun, keep your eyes peeled for our other residents! 🐿️🦦 Castle Kennedy Gardens is a haven for wildlife.

Sneak into one of our two bird hides at White Loch or Black Loch to see if you can spot an otter playing or a heron standing still as a statue. If you’re lucky, you might even see our famous red squirrels darting through the trees! How many animals can your little nature detectives spot today? 🦅🦆 

#WildlifeWatching #RedSquirrels #NatureKids #CKGWildlife
    Did you know there’s a 'fairytale' castle hiding a Did you know there’s a 'fairytale' castle hiding at the other end of our lochs? 👸🏰 Take a walk along the Great Avenue for a stunning view of Lochinch Castle, then wander through our ancient Monkey Puzzle Avenue.

These magical trees look like they’re from another world! It’s the perfect backdrop for a family photo or a game of hide-and-seek. Don't forget, completing your Easter Trail form gives you a chance to win a family ticket to The Jungle Book this July! 🐯 

#FairytaleGardens #FamilyDaysOut #MonkeyPuzzleTree #SummerPrize
    Riddle me this - "I’m a character in a story, hopp Riddle me this - "I’m a character in a story, hopping through a garden. I wear a blue jacket and avoid a certain farmer." 🥕

Can you guess who it is? Find the answer in the gardens to complete your form and enter our prize draw! 

Only a few more days to join the fun!  Trails end on April 19th!

#EasterTrail #RiddleMeThis #PeterRabbit #FamilyFun
    April is truly the month where the gardens explode April is truly the month where the gardens explode with life. 🌿 

The large-leaved Rhododendron sinogrande and falconeri are in their element. Don't forget your camera! 

#AprilInBloom #NaturePhotography #GardenInspiration
    🧩 Level Up Your Easter: The Ultimate Garden Quest! 🧩 Level Up Your Easter: The Ultimate Garden Quest!
Think the Easter Trails are just for the wee ones? Think again! Our Easter Egg Trail Challenge is designed for the older kids (and the young at heart) who love a bit of a brain-teaser while they explore.

Check out these puzzle-masters in action! They’ve just tracked down 10 Across - do you know the answer? 🍫

How the Quest Works:

The Mission: Grab your trail sheet at the entrance for £3.50.

The Hunt: Navigate through 75 acres of spring blooms to find hidden question eggs like the one in this photo.

The Code: Use the answers to fill in your crossword. If you solve all the clues correctly, a secret word will be revealed!

The Loot: Take your completed crossword back to the entrance to claim your well-earned chocolate prize.

The Ultimate Bonus: Handing in your completed form doesn't just get you chocolate - it also enters you into our grand prize draw for a Family Pass (for 4) to see Immersion Theatre’s The Jungle Book on Tuesday, 14th July! 🐯🐾

We are open daily from 10am to 5pm. Who’s ready to crack the code? 

 #EasterPrize #TheJungleBook #ImmersionTheatre #WinTickets
    Happy Easter !🐯 Will You Find the Winning Trail? 🐯 Happy Easter !🐯 Will You Find the Winning Trail? 🐯

Want to turn your Easter outing into a summer adventure? This year, the Easter Egg Trail isn't just about the chocolate prize at the end... it’s your ticket to the jungle!

Simply complete the trail and hand in your form at the end of your visit to be entered into our grand prize draw. One lucky family of four will win tickets to see Immersion Theatre’s "The Jungle Book" right here in the Gardens on Tuesday, July 14th! 🐾

Get tracking, get solving, and you could be joining Mowgli and Baloo later this season! 

 #EasterPrize #TheJungleBook #ImmersionTheatre #WinTickets
    🦅 An Easter Sunday Event with a View!🦅 Join us on 🦅 An Easter Sunday Event with a View!🦅 Join us on April 5th for our Birds of Prey event! We have three sessions throughout the day where you can get up close and personal with some of nature's most majestic hunters.

It’s an incredible way for the kids to learn about wildlife while enjoying the fresh spring air. Best of all? Access to the display is included in your Garden admission. With three sessions across the day, there is plenty of time to get up close and personal with these magnificent birds.

Come for the birds, stay for the blooms! 

#birdsofprey #easter2026 #familyfun
    🕵️‍♂️ Can You Spy Them All? Our I-Spy Trail is Ope 🕵️‍♂️ Can You Spy Them All? Our I-Spy Trail is Open! 🕵️‍♀️

Our beautiful, blossoming gardens have some very special new residents, and they’re playing a game of hide-and-seek! 🌳✨ See this clever little adventurer in the photo? She’s just discovered one of our hidden character friends (and yes, they each have their own names!).

How to Play:

Pick up your official I-Spy sheet at the entrance.

Embark on an epic garden expedition and hunt for our charming character cutouts hidden throughout the flowers and trees.

When you spot one, simply circle the character on your sheet, just like our friend is doing.

Once you’ve found them all, return your completed form to the entrance to claim a delicious, wee chocolate prize! 🍫🏆

This simple, fun, and magical trail is the perfect way to explore the gardens and create some amazing family memories. 🌷 It’s a great challenge for little eyes and imaginative minds!

We’re open daily, 10am-5pm. Come and join the hunt! 

#Easter2026 #EasterTrail #FamilyDay
    🐰 Trail Complete? Time for a Treat! 🐰 After your 🐰 Trail Complete? Time for a Treat! 🐰

After your little explorers have successfully hopped their way through the Easter Bunny Trail, lead them straight to the Tea Room for the ultimate reward! We’re serving up our famous Easter Hot Chocolate - piled high with whipped cream, sprinkles, and a few chocolatey surprises. ☕

✨If you’re looking for something traditional, our warm, homemade scones and a pot of tea are the perfect way to soak in the garden views while the kids compare their trail prizes. Simple, delicious, and guaranteed to bring out the smiles!	

#SweetTreats #TeaRoomSpecials #FamilyDay
    Our Rhododendrons are starting their spectacular s Our Rhododendrons are starting their spectacular show! 🌸 Did you know we are home to several British Champion trees, including the tallest Rhododendron arboreum? 

Come and stand beneath these floral giants.

 #Rhododendrons #ChampionTrees #BritishChampion
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    Castle Kennedy Gardens
    9 hours ago
    Castle Kennedy Gardens

    Blue skies call for cold drinks and great food! ☀️ Whether you’re stopping mid-adventure for a light, seasonal lunch or grabbing a refreshing iced drink, the Tea Room is your perfect summer pit stop.

    Fancy dining al fresco? Speak to our team about ordering a picnic to find your own perfect, shaded spot out on the lawns! 🧺

    #CastleKennedyGardens #TeaRoom #SummerRefreshments #GardenEats #picnicseason
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    Castle Kennedy Gardens
    2 days ago
    Castle Kennedy Gardens

    Pause, unplug, and just breathe. 🧘‍♀️ Wednesdays' between 1pm and 4pm, we invite you to experience the deep tranquility of our Walled Garden for #SilentSpace. We step back from the noise of the everyday to simply appreciate the rustle of the trees and the quiet beauty around us.

    If you capture a moment of peace on your camera while visiting, we’d love for you to share your serene snaps with us. 🌿

    #CastleKennedyGardens #Mindfulness #WalledGarden #PeacefulEscape
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    Castle Kennedy Gardens
    3 days ago
    Castle Kennedy Gardens

    Unlock the very best of summer with unlimited access!
    🔑 Becoming a Friend of Castle Kennedy Gardens isn't just about a membership card - it’s your family’s passport to a season full of fresh air and exploration.

    Enjoy endless daily visits, early-bird event notifications, and fantastic discounts to use in our Shop and Tea Room. Invest in a year of beautiful days out together.

    #CastleKennedyGardens #MembershipBenefits #GardenLovers #scottishgardens
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    Castle Kennedy Gardens
    6 days ago
    Castle Kennedy Gardens

    Ready to plan your classic Scottish summer getaway? 🏡

    Our collection of charming holiday cottages provides a peaceful, idyllic base to explore everything Castle Kennedy Gardens and the wider, rugged landscape of Southern Scotland have to offer.

    Wake up to nothing but birdsong, crisp country air, and world-class heritage right on your doorstep.

    Summer weeks are filling up fast - secure your next holiday break with us today.

    Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere @visitsouthwestscotland

    #castlekennedycottages #ScottishGetaway #staycation #southernscotland
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    Balker Lodge external
    Balker Lodge external
    bed interior self catering
    bed interior self catering
    George Wellman CKG panaromic view over White Loch
    George Wellman CKG panaromic view over White Loch
    Scones on arrival - Balker Lodgering
    Scones on arrival - Balker Lodgering

    CONTACT

    t: 01776 702 024 / 01581 400 225
    e: info@castlekennedygardens.com

    Stair Estates, Sheuchan, Castle Kennedy,
    Stranraer, Dumfries and Galloway,
    DG9 8SL

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      Castle Kennedy Gardens
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