Attadale Gardens: A Highland Botanical Sanctuary
Explore 20 acres of Victorian charm, rare plants, and hidden sculptures with breathtaking views of Loch Carron and Skye.
Attadale Gardens is a stunning 20-acre garden located on the south side of Loch Carron in the Scottish Highlands. Established in the Victorian era and transformed after the 1980 storms, it features ancient rhododendrons, water gardens, a Japanese garden, and a geodesic dome filled with ferns. Visitors enjoy wandering woodland paths, discovering sculptures, and relaxing in the peaceful setting with views of Skye and surrounding hills.
A brief summary to Attadale Gardens
- Attadale Gardens, Strathcarron, IV54 8YX, GB
- +441520722603
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit between April and October for full garden access and seasonal blooms.
- Allow 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the gardens and enjoy the café.
- Look for the hidden sculptures scattered throughout the garden for a fun discovery.
- Arrive by train via Attadale Station for easy pedestrian access directly to the gardens.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of Skye and the unique plant collections.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Take the Kyle to Inverness line and disembark at Attadale Station, a request stop near the gardens. From the station, it is a short walk of approximately 5 minutes on flat terrain to the garden entrance. Trains run several times daily with ticket prices ranging from £10 to £25 depending on origin. This option is ideal for travelers seeking scenic rail travel with easy access.
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Car
Drive via the A890 road from Strathcarron or Kyle of Lochalsh, with a free visitor car park available near the garden entrance. Travel times vary from 30 to 60 minutes depending on starting point. Parking is limited during peak season, and some narrow Highland roads require cautious driving. Disabled parking and drop-off points are provided closer to the house.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Strathcarron and Kyle of Lochalsh with stops near Attadale Gardens. Buses run several times daily but with limited frequency on weekends. Tickets cost approximately £5 to £10. Walking from the nearest stop involves a gentle 10-minute stroll on paved paths.
Attadale Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Attadale Gardens
Victorian Origins and Modern Revival
Attadale Gardens began in the late 19th century under Baron Schroder, with initial plantings of rhododendrons and conifers. The garden's character was dramatically reshaped after the 1980 storms by current owner Nicky Macpherson, who transformed it into a painter’s garden designed to frame the spectacular views of the Isle of Skye and the surrounding Highlands. This blend of historical roots and modern horticultural vision creates a unique botanical experience.Diverse Plant Collections and Garden Features
Spanning 20 acres, the gardens boast a remarkable variety of plant life including ancient rhododendrons, extensive fern collections, and over 2,000 trees planted over the past two decades. The water gardens along the driveway showcase dramatic plantings of gunnera, Himalayan primula, and meconopsis, while the rhododendron dell highlights some of the oldest specimens. The Japanese garden offers a serene retreat with raked gravel, cloud-pruned hedges, dwarf conifers, and Japanese maples, complemented by a geodesic dome housing tender ferns.Art and Sculpture Interwoven with Nature
Throughout the gardens, visitors can discover sculptures thoughtfully scattered in unexpected places, adding an artistic dimension to the natural beauty. The restored sunken garden with its giant sundial is a focal point, inviting contemplation and exploration. The blend of art and horticulture enriches the visitor experience, making each visit a journey of discovery.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Attadale Gardens welcomes visitors daily from 10am to 5pm between April and October, with a £10 adult entrance fee and free entry for children under 15. A self-service café, known as the Midge Bite Café, offers homemade snacks, cakes, hot drinks, and ice cream. The garden also features a kitchen garden where plants are available for purchase. Accessibility is thoughtfully considered, with partial wheelchair access, accessible parking, and a wheelchair available on site.Setting and Surroundings
Nestled on the shores of Loch Carron, the gardens provide stunning views across the water to the Isle of Skye and the rugged Highland hills. The natural setting enhances the tranquil atmosphere, with woodland paths, waterfalls, and exotic ponds creating a peaceful escape. The location is ideal for visitors traveling to nearby landmarks like Eilean Donan Castle or the Applecross Peninsula.Engagement and Seasonal Highlights
The gardens host a variety of seasonal displays, including a Snowdrop Festival in February. Visitors can follow themed trails such as the Fairy Trail to discover hidden sculptures and enjoy the changing plant life throughout the year. The garden’s evolving nature and ongoing planting projects ensure a fresh experience on every visit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eilean Donan Castle
13.6 km
Discover Scotland’s most iconic castle set on a tranquil island where history, nature, and legend converge in breathtaking Highland scenery.
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
21.3 km
Historic 19th-century octagonal lighthouse overlooking the narrow Kyle Rhea strait, offering stunning coastal views and maritime heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Clachan Erisco Standing stones, Borve, Isle of Skye
48.0 km
Discover the timeless mystery of Clachan Erisco Standing Stones, where ancient history meets Skye’s wild coastal beauty.
Bridge of Oich
54.1 km
Victorian engineering marvel: a rare surviving taper-principle suspension bridge from 1854.
Fort Augustus Lighthouse
54.3 km
Discover the charming Pepperpot Lighthouse, a tiny historic beacon marking the entrance to the Caledonian Canal at Loch Ness in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Old Ruins
58.7 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Eagle Stone Path
59.3 km
Explore the enchanting Eagle Stone Path in Strathpeffer - a historical landmark that combines natural beauty with rich Scottish heritage.
Castle Leod
59.6 km
Explore Castle Leod, a stunning Scottish castle in Strathpeffer, rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking nature.
Walkhighlands
60.5 km
Explore Scotland step by step with Walkhighlands, your comprehensive guide to hiking and walking routes across the Highlands and beyond.
Beauly Priory
60.6 km
Explore Beauly Priory, a historical landmark in the Scottish Highlands, where history meets serene beauty amidst captivating landscapes.
Urquhart Castle
61.2 km
Explore the historic Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness, a captivating blend of Scottish heritage and stunning landscapes.
Iron age broch
62.6 km
Explore a uniquely Scottish Iron Age broch perched above Portree, revealing ancient stone craftsmanship and commanding views of Skye’s dramatic landscape.
Wardlaw Mausoleum
62.7 km
Explore the enchanting Wardlaw Mausoleum, a historical landmark in Kirkhill near Inverness, where Scotland's rich heritage comes to life amidst serene landscapes.
Commando Memorial
63.0 km
A stirring World War II tribute set against breathtaking Highland vistas, honoring the bravery of British Commandos.
Rubha Hunish
63.2 km
Explore Rubha Hunish, the northern jewel of the Isle of Skye, where breathtaking views and rich history come together in a stunning coastal experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Strome Castle
7.0 km
Dramatic 15th-century tower house ruins on a rocky headland at the head of Loch Carron, with sweeping views to Skye and a history of clan warfare and royal intrigue.
Highland cow tours
15.8 km
Discover the charm of Scotland’s iconic Highland cows up close in a serene crofting landscape near Kyle of Lochalsh.
Falls of Glomach
16.1 km
Discover the remote Falls of Glomach, one of Britain’s highest waterfalls, accessible only by a challenging and scenic Highland hike.
Caisteal Maol
20.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Caisteal Maol, a Norse-linked 15th-century castle commanding the Kyleakin strait on the Isle of Skye.
Teko (the otter)sculpture by Laurence Broderick
20.9 km
A charming bronze otter sculpture by Laurence Broderick celebrating Skye’s wildlife heritage in the tranquil village of Kyleakin.
Otter Hide
22.3 km
Discover peaceful coastal wildlife watching at Otter Hide, a serene spot to glimpse otters and seals on the Isle of Skye’s rugged shore.
Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve
27.3 km
Explore Scotland’s first National Nature Reserve, where ancient pinewoods meet soaring eagles and rugged mountain peaks in breathtaking wilderness.
Leitir Fura
29.9 km
A tranquil woodland walk through Skye's hidden forest, where nature has reclaimed a lost Highland settlement.
Strath Suardale Chambered Cairn
34.1 km
Explore the ancient Neolithic Strath Suardale Chambered Cairn, a timeless stone tomb nestled in the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the Isle of Skye.
Loch Cill Chriosd
35.9 km
A tranquil freshwater loch cradled in Skye's sacred valley, where golden reeds meet dramatic mountains.
Glen Affric
36.7 km
Discover the ancient Caledonian forests and serene lochs of Glen Affric, a tranquil Highland sanctuary for nature lovers and hikers.
View point LOCH AINORT
37.0 km
Discover breathtaking views of Loch Ainort and the Red Cuillin Mountains from this serene Isle of Skye viewpoint.
Dog Falls
37.7 km
Discover the enchanting waterfalls and ancient pine forests of Dog Falls, the perfect gateway to Glen Affric’s wild Scottish Highlands.
Plodda Falls
38.1 km
Discover the breathtaking 46-meter cascade of Plodda Falls amid ancient Douglas fir forests in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Ben Na Cro
38.3 km
A quiet Red Cuillin peak offering straightforward hillwalking, panoramic views, and genuine Highland solitude.
Essential places to dine
Lochcarron Bistro - Restaurant & Gift Shop
2.3 km
Intimate Scottish Highlands bistro with seasonal menus, local flavors, and scenic loch views, plus a charming gift shop.
The Clachan
13.0 km
Experience authentic Highland hospitality with traditional Scottish fare, local ales, and lively music in the heart of Dornie village.
Shieldaig Bar & Coastal Kitchen
18.6 km
Coastal dining with fresh Highland seafood and stunning Loch Torridon views in the heart of Shieldaig.
Castle Moil Restaurant
21.1 km
Waterside Scottish dining with fresh seafood, warm hospitality, and views of the iconic Skye Bridge.
The Legend of Saucy Mary Restaurant
21.2 km
Charming British dining with panoramic Skye Bridge views in Kyleakin’s historic heart, blending local flavors and cozy ambiance.
Taste of India, Kyleakin
22.1 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with fresh flavors and warm hospitality in the scenic village of Kyleakin on the Isle of Skye.
Gille Brighde Restaurant
24.6 km
Remote Highland dining with fresh local seafood, stunning loch views, and warm Scottish hospitality in a charming old schoolhouse setting.
The Gorse Bush
25.2 km
Cozy bistro in Kinlochewe’s Old Village Hall, serving comforting dishes with friendly service amid scenic Highland surroundings.
Red Skye Restaurant
28.9 km
Authentic Scottish flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy, rustic setting on the stunning Isle of Skye.
Cluanie Bar & Kitchen
30.9 km
Savor hearty mountain-inspired dishes and vintage cocktails in a lively Highland inn surrounded by stunning Glenmoriston scenery.
North Harbour Bistro and Tearoom
31.2 km
Exceptional seafood dining with stunning harbour views on the tranquil Isle of Scalpay, blending local flavors and warm hospitality.
Claymore Restaurant
31.4 km
Cozy seafood dining with fresh local catches and warm hospitality in Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming coastal village.
The Shellfish Shack
31.4 km
Fresh, locally caught shellfish served with friendly smiles in a charming coastal shack on the Isle of Skye.
Cafe Sia & Siaway
32.2 km
Charming island café serving fresh pizzas and quality coffee in a relaxed, friendly setting on the Isle of Skye.
Restaurant at the Duisdale
33.5 km
Elegant dining on Skye’s southeast coast offering fresh local fare with stunning Sound of Sleat views in a nautical-chic setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Kraft Kabin Skye
28.6 km
Discover the creativity of local artisans at The Kraft Kabin Skye, a charming craft shop in Breakish offering unique handmade treasures.
Skye Smithy
30.9 km
Discover authentic local craftsmanship and unique gifts at Skye Smithy, a charming artisan shop nestled in the tranquil beauty of the Isle of Skye.
Nook & Cranny
31.8 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique local artistry at Nook & Cranny, Broadford’s cozy gift shop on the Isle of Skye.
The Treasure Hut
31.8 km
Discover unique gemstones, fossils, and handcrafted treasures at The Treasure Hut in Broadford Market Square, Isle of Skye’s premier gift shop.
The Skye Gift Company
31.8 km
A charming independent gift shop in Broadford, showcasing the best of Skye’s crafts, food and souvenirs in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Skye Antiques
31.8 km
Explore timeless antiques and local heritage treasures in the cozy charm of Skye Antiques, Broadford’s beloved collectible shop.
The Blue Skye gift co.
31.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and enjoy great coffee in the heart of Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming local treasure.
Buzy Vee
32.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and quality sewing supplies in Broadford’s welcoming Buzy Vee gift shop.
Floraidh Skye
34.3 km
Discover exquisite Scottish textiles and local crafts in a charming pier-side boutique on the scenic Isle of Skye.
scottishquality.com
34.3 km
Explore the enchanting Isle of Skye gift shop, where local crafts and unique treasures await to tell the story of Scotland's rich heritage.
Gairloch Gifts
39.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at Gairloch Gifts, your charming Highland stop on the scenic North Coast 500.
Cuillin Crafts
44.2 km
Authentic island craftsmanship and locally made treasures in the heart of Portree.
Isle of Skye Crafts @ Over the Rainbow
44.2 km
Discover authentic Isle of Skye crafts and unique handmade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant harbour town.
Tippecanoe
44.2 km
Discover unique Scottish crafts and fair-trade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant main street.
ÒR
44.2 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery inspired by Skye’s heritage at ÒR, a charming boutique in the heart of Portree.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rockvilla Hotel, Rooms, Restaurant & Bar - Lochcarron - NC500 Route
2.1 km
Charming Highland guest house with stunning loch views, excellent local cuisine, and warm hospitality on the NC500 route.
Beinn Bar
15.7 km
Cozy up with Scotland’s finest whiskies, ales, and gins in a historic Highland bar nestled within The Torridon estate.
Nanny's
18.5 km
Cozy cafe in Shieldaig serving homemade soups, local seafood, and fresh coffee in a charming Highland village setting.
The King Haakon Bar
21.1 km
A lively Scottish pub in Kyleakin offering fresh seafood, malt whiskies, live traditional music, and stunning views of the Skye Bridge.
Gabbro Bar
32.1 km
A cozy, dog-friendly local pub in Broadford serving Skye-inspired drinks, hearty snacks, and lively entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bar Am Praban
34.3 km
Cozy up with hearty Highland fare and fresh seafood in a welcoming pub setting on the scenic Isle of Skye.
The Badachro Inn
37.7 km
Coastal Highland inn renowned for fresh seafood, stunning bay views, and warm, rustic charm in the heart of Badachro.
The Bar at Scorrybreac
44.1 km
An intimate cocktail and whisky bar with stunning Portree Harbour views, blending classic recipes with Hebridean flavors on the Isle of Skye.
Merchant Bar
44.2 km
Experience authentic Isle of Skye hospitality with local ales, fine whiskies, and hearty Highland fare in the cozy Merchant Bar of Portree.
An Talla Mòr Eighteen Twenty
44.2 km
Historic church-turned-pub in Portree offering local ales, live music, and authentic Scottish hospitality in a charming, lively setting.
The Auld Bridge Inn
44.3 km
A cozy Highland bar on Skye offering local drinks and scenic views, perfect for relaxing after exploring the island’s stunning landscapes.
West Highlands Bar
44.3 km
Cozy Highland pub in Portree offering local whiskies, Isle of Skye brews, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
The Isles Inn
44.4 km
A lively traditional pub and cozy inn in Portree, offering hearty Scottish fare, live folk music, and comfortable rooms in the heart of Isle of Skye.
Macnamara & Bothin Bar
45.8 km
A cozy bar in Ardvasar offering local whiskies, stunning Isle of Skye views, and warm Scottish hospitality in a rustic setting.
The Old Inn & Waterfront Bunkhouse
54.8 km
Charming Scottish inn with stunning Loch Harport views, local cuisine, live traditional music, and cozy accommodation on the Isle of Skye.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Skye Camanachd Social Club
45.5 km
Experience the vibrant social heartbeat of Portree at Skye Camanachd Social Club, where tradition meets lively nightlife on the Isle of Skye.
The Ross Shire Club
65.3 km
Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
Roobarb
67.2 km
Experience Fort William’s vibrant nightlife at Roobarb, the welcoming nightclub where music and dancing light up weekend nights.
Private Eyes Inverness
74.2 km
Experience Inverness’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, where stylish decor meets great music and a welcoming party atmosphere.
The Exchange
74.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at The Exchange, a charming pub in the heart of Inverness with a vibrant atmosphere and local brews.
The Tooth & Claw
74.3 km
Experience the vibrant live music scene at The Tooth & Claw, a premier bar in Inverness, where great drinks meet unforgettable performances.
The Imperial
74.3 km
Discover The Imperial, a lively sports bar in Inverness offering cocktails, pub fare, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for game days.
Auld Mull Bar
93.0 km
Experience the warmth of Auld Mull Bar in Tobermory - a perfect blend of local drinks, cuisine, and stunning harbor views on the Isle of Mull.
Mishnish
93.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Mishnish, the heart of Tobermory's bar and restaurant scene, perfect for music lovers and foodies alike.
MacDonald Arms Hotel
93.3 km
Discover the warm hospitality and local flavors at MacDonald Arms Hotel, a charming pub in Tobermory, Isle of Mull.
Macgochans
93.5 km
Experience the essence of Tobermory at Macgochans, where delightful seafood meets vibrant Scottish hospitality in a stunning waterfront setting.
Number 5
93.6 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
Xplosive Discos
94.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
SUIE BAR
96.0 km
Discover Suie Bar: A Heartwarming Scottish Retreat in Kincraig, Perfect for Relaxation and Local Flavors.
Uncle Bob's Bar
97.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Uncle Bob's Bar in Nairn, a perfect blend of traditional pub charm and sports excitement.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
