in Pitlochry is a six-acre woodland garden dedicated to celebrating the legacy of Scottish plant hunters. Integrated with the Pitlochry Festival Theatre, it functions as a "Theatricum Botanicum," where horticultural displays merge with architectural landmarks and performance spaces.
Core Objectives of the Garden
Historical Commemoration: The garden is divided into global sections (e.g., South America, Japan, Himalayas) that represent the regions explored by Scottish botanists like David Douglas and Archibald Menzies over the last 300 years.
Horticultural Preservation: It houses rare and exotic species introduced to Britain by these explorers, most notably a large collection of over 120 species of Rhododendrons and the unique Himalayan blue poppy (Meconopsis GSG ‘Explorers’).
Cultural Hub: It serves as a venue for the arts, featuring a 100-seat outdoor Amphitheatre for theatrical productions, the David Douglas Pavilion for events, and various sculptures and architectural pieces.
Operational Roles and Management
The garden is maintained by a small team—reportedly three permanent staff—who manage its steep, woodland terrain without the use of chemicals. Key roles include:
Head Gardener/Manager: Responsible for overseeing the collection, leading monthly guided tours, and spearheading restoration projects.
Guided Tour Leader: Staff members (often from the gardening team) lead seasonal walks for visitors from May through October to showcase what is currently in bloom.
Volunteer & Community Liaison: The garden relies on volunteers for ongoing maintenance and aims to create links with the local community through workshops and events.
Visitor Information (2025)
Opening Times: Typically open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Admission: Approximately £5, which supports the garden's continued restoration and maintenance.
Access: It is roughly a 15-minute walk from Pitlochry Train Station and is dog-friendly (on-lead).