Glenarn is a private garden initially made famous for its collection of species rhododendrons created by the Gibson family. Established in the 1920s on the structure of the original Victorian garden, it lies in a protected hollow with a steeply sloping glen running its length and providing shelter for large-leaved and tender rhododendrons. Early in the spring, tall Asiatic magnolias create dramatic interest while other plants such as crinodendrons, eucryphias and acers provide colour at different times.
The large rock garden, now deer fenced, built round the old quarry and natural rock outcrops provides habitats for meconopsis, primulas, paeonias and many bulbs.
Below the greenhouse there is a vegetable and fruit garden providing produce for the house.
Work is continuing, clearing the west-facing bank above Sunnyside in order to plant a succession of deciduous azaleas.

How to find us

2 miles north of Helensburgh on A814. At Rhu Marina, turn up Pier Road and first right to Glenarn Road. At the roadend the garden is the left hand gateway. Please park outside the gate unless there are mobility impaired visitors.

Scotrail services connect Helensburgh to Glasgow and Edinburgh direct. There are buses along the A814 from and to Helensburgh hourly and taxis from Helensburgh Station.

Location

Highlights

• Spring heralded by early rhododendrons, daffodils and huge Asiatic magnolias
• A multi coloured garden in early summer
• A wide range of species rhododendrons, some rare and endangered
• Meconopsis, paeonias, bulbs and unusual herbaceous plants in the rock garden
• A white garden in late summer - eucryphias and hoherias

Guided tours

Guided tours available to groups by prior arrangement.Guided tours and group visits available to pre booked parties by prior arrangement. Catering (coffee/ tea/ homebaking) available by arrangement throughout garden open season.

Group visits

Guided tours and group visits available to pre booked parties by prioe arrangement. Catering (coffee/ tea/ homebaking) available by arrangement throughout garden open season.

Volunteering / internships opportunites

Regular visitors can take out a year's membership for £15.00 pa.

Promotional Themes

• Meconopsis
• Autumn Colour
• Daffodil Displays
• Rhododendron Displays