Amisfield Walled Garden in East Lothian is a historic and picturesque garden that has been restored to its former glory. The garden dates back to the 18th century and was originally designed to provide fresh produce for the nearby Amisfield House. Today, the garden is open to the public and is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the beauty and tranquillity of this unique location.
The walled garden is home to a wide variety of plants, including fruit trees, vegetables, herbs and flowers. The garden is divided into different sections, each with its own distinct character and charm. Visitors can wander through the formal parterre, admire the colourful herbaceous borders or relax in the peaceful orchard. The garden also features a delightful pond, which is home to a range of aquatic plants and wildlife.
History of Amisfield Walled Garden
18th Century Beginnings
Amisfield Walled Garden was established in the 18th century as part of the Amisfield House estate in East Lothian, Scotland. The garden was built to provide fresh produce for the estate and was designed to be protected from the harsh Scottish weather by the surrounding walls. The walls were constructed using local red sandstone and are almost 12 feet high in some places.
Amisfield House and Estate
Amisfield House was originally built in the 14th century but was extensively renovated and expanded in the 18th century. The house and estate were owned by the Dalrymple family until the 20th century. The estate covered over 5,000 acres and included farmland, woodland, and a deer park.
Demolition and Restoration
In the 1950s, Amisfield House was sold and the estate was broken up. The walled garden fell into disrepair and was eventually demolished in the 1970s. However, in the 1990s, a group of local volunteers began a campaign to restore the garden to its former glory. The campaign was successful, and the garden was officially reopened in 2003.
Today, the Amisfield Walled Garden is a popular tourist attraction and is open to the public. The garden features a wide variety of plants, including fruit trees, vegetables, and flowers. Visitors can also learn about the history of the garden and the surrounding area at the on-site museum.
The Garden Today
Walled Garden
Amisfield Walled Garden is a beautiful and historic garden located in East Lothian. The garden is enclosed by a 250-year-old wall and covers an area of approximately 2 acres. The walled garden is the heart of Amisfield and is home to a variety of plants, including fruit trees, vegetables, and flowers. The garden is maintained by a team of dedicated gardeners who work tirelessly to keep it looking its best.
Orchard
The orchard at Amisfield Walled Garden is a delightful place to visit. It is home to a wide variety of fruit trees, including apple, pear, plum, and cherry trees. The orchard is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Visitors can take a stroll through the orchard and pick some fruit to take home.
Herbaceous Borders
The herbaceous borders at Amisfield Walled Garden are a sight to behold. They are bursting with colour and fragrance and are home to a wide variety of plants, including perennials, annuals, and bulbs. The borders are carefully designed to provide interest throughout the year, with different plants flowering at different times.
Fruit and Vegetable Beds
The fruit and vegetable beds at Amisfield Walled Garden are a testament to the skill and dedication of the gardeners who work there. The beds are home to a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, including strawberries, raspberries, tomatoes, and carrots. The gardeners use organic methods to grow the produce, which is sold in the on-site shop.
Wildflower Meadow
The wildflower meadow at Amisfield Walled Garden is a haven for wildlife. It is home to a wide variety of wildflowers, including poppies, cornflowers, and oxeye daisies. The meadow is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the beauty of nature. Visitors can also spot a wide variety of birds and insects in the meadow.
Woodland Plantings
The woodland plantings at Amisfield Walled Garden are a delight to explore. They are home to a wide variety of trees and shrubs, including oak, beech, and holly trees. The woodland is a great place to take a walk and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of nature. Visitors can also spot a wide variety of birds and animals in the woodland.
| Garden Entity | Description |
|---|---|
| Walled Garden | Enclosed by a 250-year-old wall and covers an area of approximately 2 acres |
| Orchard | Home to a wide variety of fruit trees, including apple, pear, plum, and cherry trees |
| Herbaceous Borders | Bursting with colour and fragrance and home to a wide variety of plants |
| Fruit and Vegetable Beds | Home to a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, grown using organic methods |
| Wildflower Meadow | A haven for wildlife and home to a wide variety of wildflowers |
| Woodland Plantings | Home to a wide variety of trees and shrubs, including oak, beech, and holly trees |
Note: Amisfield Walled Garden is open to the public from April to October. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, workshops, and events throughout the year.
Amisfield Preservation Trust
The Amisfield Walled Garden is owned and managed by the Amisfield Preservation Trust, a registered charity that was established in 2001. The Trust’s mission is to preserve and restore the garden, which is a unique and historically significant site.
Charity and Community Involvement
The Trust relies heavily on the support of volunteers and the local community. Volunteers play a vital role in maintaining the garden, and the Trust provides them with training and support to help them develop their skills. The Trust also works closely with local schools and community groups, providing educational opportunities and promoting community involvement.
Education and Training
The Trust is committed to providing educational opportunities for people of all ages. It offers a range of courses and workshops on topics such as gardening, horticulture, and heritage conservation. The Trust also provides training and support for volunteers, helping them to develop their skills and gain valuable experience.
Visiting Amisfield Walled Garden
Accessibility and Parking
Amisfield Walled Garden is a visitor destination located in East Lothian, Scotland. The garden is accessible by car and public transport. There is ample parking available for visitors, including disabled parking. The garden is wheelchair accessible, with accessible toilets and baby changing facilities available on site.
Opening Times
The garden is open to visitors from April to September, from 10am to 5pm daily. During the winter months, the garden is closed to visitors.
Visitor Experience
Visitors to Amisfield Walled Garden can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing experience in a beautiful setting. The garden has a variety of different areas to explore, including a herb garden, vegetable garden, and orchard. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll along the garden’s many paths, or relax on one of the garden’s many benches.
In addition to the garden, there is also a café on site, serving a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. The café is open during the garden’s opening hours.
Location and Surroundings
East Lothian
Amisfield Walled Garden is located in East Lothian, a historic county in Scotland. It is situated on the outskirts of Haddington, a charming market town with a rich history and many local amenities.
Haddington
Haddington is a picturesque town with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. It is also home to many historic buildings, including St. Mary’s Church and the 14th-century Haddington Castle.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is just a short drive away from Amisfield Walled Garden. It is a vibrant city with many cultural attractions, including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and the Scottish National Gallery.
River Tyne
The River Tyne runs through Haddington and is a popular spot for fishing and walking. The river is home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, kingfishers, and herons.
Local Walkers
There are many walking trails in the area surrounding Amisfield Walled Garden, including the John Muir Way and the Haddington to Longniddry Coastal Walk. These trails offer stunning views of the Scottish countryside and are a great way to explore the area.
Golf Club
The Amisfield Park Golf Club is located just a short distance from the walled garden. It is a beautiful 18-hole course that offers a challenging round of golf in a picturesque setting. The club also has a restaurant and bar, making it a great place to relax after a round of golf.
Additional Information
Website
The official website for Amisfield Walled Garden can be found at www.amisfield.org.uk. The website provides a wealth of information about the garden, including its history, opening times, admission fees, events, and facilities. Visitors can also book tickets online, purchase gift vouchers, and make donations. The website is easy to navigate and user-friendly, with clear and concise information.
Aerial Photo
For a bird’s eye view of Amisfield Walled Garden, check out the aerial photo on their website. The photo shows the garden in all its glory, with its impressive layout, beautiful flowers, and well-manicured lawns. Visitors can use the photo to plan their visit and get a better sense of the garden’s size and layout. The aerial photo is a great way to appreciate the garden’s design and beauty from a different perspective.