Castle Kennedy & Gardens Stranraer

No visit to Stranraer would be complete without a visit to Castle Kennedy and the gardens. The site of the ruined castle is made even more spectacular with the sight of the 19^th century castle renowned for its woodland garden. Located on the peninsula between the Black and White Lochs, the garden dates back to 1730 when it was planned and laid out by the second Earl of Stair.

The grounds are the site of two castles – the ruins of Castle Kennedy, destroyed by fire in 1716 and Lochinch Castle, built in 1864 and is now the home of the Earl and Countess of Stair. The walk through the gardens is about two miles and at the Lochinch Castle you can see a sunken garden. Although it is known that Castle Kennedy dated back to the 14^th century, all records were lost in the fire. You can view the ruins, but you cannot enter the ruins themselves for the protection.

Some of the impressive features include a walled garden with an 8-foot pieris. This plant is also called the "Flame" bush because of its bright red flowers. During May and June, the garden is alive with blooming rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias and embothriums.
One sight you can’t miss is the monkey avenue puzzle garden and the two acre lily garden is a must see when you visit these grounds.

The gardens are open to the public from Easter until September, but they do have impressive plants blooming during each month of the year. From the blooms of the rhododendrons in spring to the changing colours of the leaves in autumn, this garden in exquisite no matter what time you visit.

You can take a guided tour of the gardens or wander around at your leisure. There is no time limit on your visit – take 20 minutes or the full day. Visitors are welcome to have a picnic whenever they want and this is often the site of many beautiful weddings.

Opening Times
The gardens are open from 10.00 until 17.00 daily, normally from Easter weekend or 1 April until the end of September.

Admission
Groups and buses are very welcome, and there is a 10% discount entry rate for groups of more than twenty people.

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