|
|
|
|
A branch of the Menzies family acquired Bolfracks in the 18th century and it is thought that the original garden was created at this time. Today the garden has been very largely redesigned and replanted. Bolfracks is a hillside woodland garden occupying approximately four acres. The garden faces north with splendid views over the Tay valley and the hills beyond. The soil is acid and the average rainfall is approximately 42 inches.
The walled garden is an idyllic spot with herbaceous borders, the main Rose Garden and many sheltered corners. In the less formal wooded garden, known as the Burn Garden, visitors will find a typical spring woodland with dwarf rhododendrons, deciduous azaleas, lysichiton, meconopsis and many varieties of moisture loving primulas. Wild areas of bluebells and old daffodils carpet the woodland floor. The Burial Ground has a wide range of specimen trees.
Also look out for ten gnomes dotted around the garden! These date from the 18th century and are of German origin.
Bolfracks has been described as a plantsman's garden with many interesting features from early spring through to late autumn. Most of the trees and many of the shrubs are labelled, and a limited number of the plants to be found in the garden are offered for sale.
Bolfracks House, an 18th century Georgian farmhouse (with a gothic frontage added in 1830), is a family home and not open to the public.
VisitScotland grading:  Garden
Opening dates and times
Open 1st April to 31st October
Open daily 10am to 6pm
Directions
Located off the A827, 3 miles/ 5km east of Aberfeldy
Parking Facilities
Free Parking
Special Features
Excellent collection of old roses, viola, old daffodil varieties, hardy geraniums, sorbus, hydrangea, viburnums and a wide variety of herbaceous perennials.
Wide range of specimen trees
A Mausoleum in the burial ground contains the tombs of two members of the Menzies family and their wives.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring: trees and shrubs in flower include maples, cherries and rowans, pieris, quinces and viburnium.
Summer: May and June are the best months for rhododendrons, azaleas and mecanopsis. Wonderful roses in July.
Autumn: the cooler weather brings a riot of seasonal colour to the maples, rowans, crabs, berberis and azalea.
Prices
Admission charge.
Children (under 16) free
Guide Dogs only
Groups should apply to the Estate Office.
Disabled Facilities
An excellent map of the garden is available, with suggested routes. Visitors can choose between a Steep Route and a Gentler Route.
Plants for Sale
A limited number of the plants to be found in the garden are offered for sale.
Catering
There are no catering facilities at Bolfracks but visitors are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the many quiet spots in the garden.
|
|
|
|
|
|
