GARDENS RESTORATION

In 1773, the 23rd Chief’s mother complained to Doctor Johnson and Boswell that “there was not and never could be a good garden at Dunvegan.” Her prediction was not correct, and despite some stops and starts over the following centuries, it has evolved into one of the most important gardens in the Highlands today.

When Hugh MacLeod assumed responsibility for the castle gardens in 2008, he did not know much about plants or flowers, but he did have an appreciation for gardens and their design. Hugh’s interest in landscaping and sight lines derive from his passion for film and photography. Working in collaboration with David MacLean (former Head Gardener) and Hamish Horsley (Sculptor), the team drew up plans to improve the design and general layout of the Water, Rose and Walled gardens along with new, more accessible paths in all areas of the gardens. The scope of works has ranged from the replacement of poor design features with more sympathetic ornaments and built structures, to new herbaceous borders and planting schemes underpinned by a design aesthetic which more faithfully reflects what is essentially an early 18th century garden with some formal French influences. The aim was to make the new Waterlily Pond, Glass House, Garden Museum, Memorial Gazebo, children’s Wild Wood play area and other sculptural and design elements blend in seamlessly and feel like they have always been here.

This collective effort was recognised when Dunvegan Castle & Gardens was invited to become a RHS Partner Garden in 2022, winning RHS Partner Garden Scotland in that same year. Being recognised by this horticultural pantheon is a glowing testament to the significant capital investment, hard work and passion that has been bestowed on Dunvegan Castle’s 5 acres of formal and semi-formal gardens since 1978, when the late John MacLeod (29th Chief of Clan MacLeod) decided to follow the example of his ancestors who had tried to create a garden at Dunvegan. Like any gardener will know, no garden stands still, and Hugh and his team of dedicated gardeners are constantly looking at new ways to further develop the gardens for the enjoyment of visitors. Their mission is not only to restore the gardens to their former glory, but to exceed our visitors’ horticultural expectations.

If you would like to contribute to our ongoing mission to build on the castle garden’s unique horticultural legacy, please join our Friends of Dunvegan membership scheme, purchase an item from our Online Shop, or make a donation to the following dedicated bank account: 

Account name: MacLeod Estate Restoration
Account Number: 00311874
Sort Code: 60-93-03
IBAN: GB19 WBYS 6093 0300 3118 74

All donations, however large or small, will be gratefully received because maintaining a formal garden of this size in Skye’s unforgiving climate does cost a small fortune. Thank you for your support.