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Pitmedden Garden

4.6
·636 reviews·Pitmedden, United Kingdom

Explore a stunning 17th-century inspired Scottish Renaissance garden, a charming farm museum, and tranquil orchards.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring to Autumn

Full bloom and harvest season

CrowdMedium
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Formal gardens

Pitmedden Garden

Best Time

Spring to Autumn

Full bloom and harvest season

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a stunning 17th-century inspired Scottish Renaissance garden, a charming farm museum, and tranquil orchards.

4.6
(636 reviews)

"A beautiful visit to Pitmedden Garden & Museum of Farming this weekend. A stunning display of colour."

Vertical photo
TIP

☕ Tea Room System

Order at the counter in a separate room before entering the main tea room area to avoid confusion.

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Essential for exploring the expansive gardens and woodland trails.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Parterre

The Grand Parterre

Main Garden Area

Experience the meticulously sculpted hedges and vibrant floral displays of this 17th-century inspired formal garden.

The Orchard and Walled Garden

The Orchard and Walled Garden

Lower Grounds

Discover a hidden gem with a variety of fruit trees, berries, and herbs, perfect for a tranquil exploration.

Museum of Farming Life

Museum of Farming Life

Near Entrance

Step back in time with fascinating exhibits on traditional farming practices and vintage equipment.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit during the warmer months for the full bloom experience. Consider weekdays to avoid weekend crowds, especially if you're seeking a peaceful stroll through the formal gardens. Check for special events like Apple Day for a unique autumnal visit. Instagram+1

Navigating the Grounds

Pitmedden Garden offers a mix of formal parterres and woodland walks. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive grounds, including the hidden orchard. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Spring to Autumn
Why
Full bloom and harvest season
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Apple Day (Autumn)
Why
Festive atmosphere, local produce
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Pink Willow Homestead ok a quick tour of the garden fence perimeter #growyourownfood #homegarden #minifarm #gardenupdate #vegetablegarden #nightgarden #gardenlights #gardening #gardenideas
@mkplus7
177K likes • 2.7M views

☕ Tea Room System

Order at the counter in a separate room before entering the main tea room area to avoid confusion. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Essential for exploring the expansive gardens and woodland trails. Instagram+1

I’m happy it’s a fine day after storms yesterday and the garden is open 1-5pm. I was just signing books we shall sell, I hope to see some of you later. #nodig #gardenopenday #nodiggarden #nodigmarketgarden #growyourownfood #growyourown #fyp #foryoupage
@charles_dowding
139.3K likes • 3M views
Pitmedden Gardens Hayloft gallery.. I am so happy to be back at Pitmedden Gardens for my fourth year as artist in residence.. Exhibition is on Thursday-Monday ALL Summer until end of September.. The gardens are looming truly stunning, I feel so lucky to have this amazing place on my doorstep! #artaberdeen #nationaltrustscotland #pitmeddengarden #janekeenandesign #botanicalart
janekeenandesign
60 likes • 909 views

🍎 Discover the Orchard

Don't miss the hidden orchard at the bottom of the grounds, filled with fruit trees and berries. Reddit

📸 Capture the Colors

The vibrant floral displays and sculpted hedges offer fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram+1

PITMEDDEN GARDENS: APPLE DAY 🍏🍎 @nationaltrustforscotland @pitmeddengarden THE most wholesome and needed day last weekend at Pitmedden Garden. It was advertised as ‘the perfect autumnal day’ which couldn’t have been more true! The weather was perfect, the vibe was perfect - offering the best stalls including a vast array of entertainment from ceilidh’s to flea circuses (really!) I especially l...
kimba.eats
0 likes • 1.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

☕ Tea Room System

Order at the counter in a separate room before entering the main tea room area to avoid confusion. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Essential for exploring the expansive gardens and woodland trails. Instagram+1

🍎 Discover the Orchard

Don't miss the hidden orchard at the bottom of the grounds, filled with fruit trees and berries. Reddit

📸 Capture the Colors

The vibrant floral displays and sculpted hedges offer fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram+1

🚗 Ample Parking

There's plenty of parking available near the entrance, making arrival easy. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(636 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Pitmedden Garden for its beautifully maintained formal gardens and the tranquil atmosphere of its hidden orchard. The Museum of Farming Life is a well-regarded addition, offering historical insights. While the gardens are a clear highlight, some visitors note minor confusion with the tea room ordering system.

"Beautiful gardens. Really look great just now. Well worth a visit.
Also had a cuppa in the tearoom. Note that the counter where you order is in a different room so if you go straight into the tea room you may have a wait until someone explains the system."

Ian Robertson

"Nice cafe at entrance, plenty of parking, worth a visit if your a National Trust member, lovely walk round very well kept gardens"

A Mitchell

"Lovely staff and beautiful grounds. There’s a quaint little cafe and a small outside eating area.
The flowers were beautiful and so colourful. We used Google lens to find out some of the names. There’s a hidden orchard and the very bottoms of the grounds we found by accident with strawberries rasps, apples, pears, cherries etc growing. There’s also an area with herbs etc growing. Theres a small picnic area beside the carpark and walks outwith the main grounds."

Gael Carroll

What People Like

Beautifully kept gardens
Tranquil orchard
Fascinating farm museum

What People Dislike

Tea room ordering confusion

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pitmedden Garden is located about 14 miles north of Aberdeen, just off the A920 near Pitmedden village. Instagram Driving is the most convenient option, with ample parking available. Public transport options may be limited, so checking local bus routes in advance is recommended.

While driving is easiest, checking local bus schedules for routes serving Pitmedden village is advised. Instagram The garden is a short distance from the village itself.

Pitmedden Garden is typically open Thursday to Monday from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Instagram It's always best to check the official National Trust for Scotland website for the most up-to-date opening times, especially outside of peak season.

Yes, there is plenty of parking available at Pitmedden Garden, conveniently located near the entrance. Reddit

Information regarding dog policies can vary. It's recommended to check the National Trust for Scotland's guidelines for Pitmedden Garden before your visit to confirm their pet policy.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees apply, but members of the National Trust for Scotland often receive free entry. Reddit Checking the official NTS website for current pricing is recommended.

Booking in advance is generally not required for general visits, but it's always a good idea to check the NTS website, especially during peak times or for special events. Instagram

National Trust for Scotland members get free entry. Reddit Look for potential family tickets or group discounts on the official website.

Admission typically includes access to the formal gardens, woodland walks, and the Museum of Farming Life. Reddit

Yes, non-members can purchase tickets at the entrance. Reddit However, membership offers significant savings if you plan to visit multiple NTS properties.

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

The main attractions include the stunning 17th-century inspired formal parterre garden, the hidden orchard with various fruit trees, and the Museum of Farming Life. InstagramReddit

Yes, Pitmedden Garden offers lovely walking trails, including woodland paths and the perimeter of the garden. Instagram+1

Yes, there is a charming tea room located near the entrance that serves refreshments and light meals. InstagramReddit

There is a small picnic area located beside the car park, offering a pleasant spot to enjoy your own food. Reddit

The museum showcases traditional farming practices and equipment from bygone eras, offering a glimpse into rural life. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The formal parterre with its intricate hedges and colorful flower beds is a prime spot. Instagram+1 The hidden orchard and the museum also offer unique photographic opportunities.

Generally, photography is allowed in most areas, but it's always good practice to check for any specific signage within the museum regarding camera use. Reddit

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light, but the garden is also stunning on a bright, sunny day. Instagram Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds and have more freedom to capture your shots.

Drone usage is typically restricted in National Trust for Scotland properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check their official policy or contact the property directly.

Tripod usage might be restricted during busy periods to ensure visitor flow. It's advisable to check with the garden staff upon arrival if you plan to use a tripod.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Pitmedden Garden offers a wonderful day out for families. The Museum of Farming Life is particularly engaging for children, with its collection of old farm machinery. Reddit The hidden orchard provides a sense of adventure and discovery, and there's a small picnic area for refueling. Reddit Encourage kids to spot different fruits and perhaps even a friendly garden cat! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Garden Enthusiasts & Photographers

For those passionate about horticulture and photography, Pitmedden Garden is a dream destination. The meticulously maintained parterre garden offers endless opportunities for capturing stunning floral arrangements and intricate hedge designs. Instagram+1 Explore the diverse plantings in the walled garden and orchard, and don't forget your camera to document the seasonal changes and unique specimens. Instagram+1

🚶‍♂️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers

History enthusiasts will appreciate the 17th-century inspired design of the formal gardens, reflecting historical landscaping trends. Instagram The Museum of Farming Life provides a deep dive into the region's agricultural heritage, offering a tangible connection to the past. Reddit Consider visiting during an art exhibition to experience the garden's cultural offerings. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of the Parterre

Pitmedden Garden is renowned for its magnificent 17th-century inspired parterre garden. This formal style, heavily influenced by the gardens of Versailles, features intricate geometric patterns created by sculpted box hedges. The vibrant floral displays within these hedges change seasonally, offering a constantly evolving spectacle of color. Instagram+1 Visitors often marvel at the precision and artistry involved in maintaining these elaborate designs, making it a highlight for many. Instagram

This section of the garden is a testament to historical garden design principles. The formal layout encourages a sense of order and grandeur, inviting visitors to wander along the pathways and admire the craftsmanship. It's a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and appreciating the dedication to horticultural excellence. Instagram+1

Exploring the Hidden Orchard and Museum

Beyond the formal gardens, Pitmedden offers a more natural and educational experience. The hidden orchard is a delightful discovery, featuring a variety of apple, pear, and plum trees, alongside berry bushes and herbs. InstagramReddit This tranquil area provides a different perspective on the garden's bounty and is a peaceful retreat for visitors. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the agricultural heritage of the region.

Complementing the outdoor spaces is the Museum of Farming Life. This museum offers a fascinating insight into Scotland's agricultural past, displaying traditional farming equipment and artifacts. Reddit Visitors can see vintage tractors and learn about the methods used in days gone by, providing a rich historical context to the estate. Reddit It's an engaging experience for all ages, offering a blend of history and practical demonstration.

Seasonal Delights and Special Events

Pitmedden Garden truly shines throughout the seasons, offering unique experiences at different times of the year. Spring and summer bring forth a riot of color with blooming flowers and lush greenery, making it ideal for garden enthusiasts. Instagram+1 The autumn months are particularly special, marked by the vibrant hues of fall foliage and the exciting Apple Day event. Instagram+1 This festive occasion celebrates local produce, often featuring stalls, entertainment, and a chance to sample various apple varieties.

Beyond seasonal beauty, Pitmedden Garden hosts various events throughout the year, from art exhibitions by resident artists Instagram to horticultural talks. Checking the National Trust for Scotland's event calendar for Pitmedden Garden is highly recommended to make the most of your visit and experience the garden's dynamic offerings. Instagram

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