GEILSTON GARDENS
Situated nearby in Argyll, this is not actually within West Dunbartonshire, but very close to both Dumbarton and Renton. It is after all within what was at one time the historic County of Dumbarton and within the Parish of Cardross.
They are located just outside of Cardross (on the way to Helensburgh).
The National Trust for Scotland, under whose management this is, describe them as "a magical 200-year-old walled garden by the River Clyde with playground and floral mini-maze". They invite you to explore this delightful 200-year-old garden on the banks of the River Clyde and enjoy the carpet of dazzling colours inside the walled garden in summer. Look out for the gunnera, or giant rhubarb – its leaves can grow as large as an eagle’s wing span. There is also a ‘Hobbit hole’ play area and floral mini-maze for children. [NTS].
The gardens benefit by enthusiastic volunteers. There is a Friends of Geilston group which aims to promote, protect and preserve the presence of Geilston Gardens, House and Estate to benefit the local community and beyond. [FOG].
The garden are open for the 2021 season from Thursday to Monday starting on April the 2nd, until October the 31st. A refreshment take-away facility has been installed selling coffee, cold drinks, ice cream and snacks.
The gardens are full of surprises that change through the seasons.
The May meadow of buttercups alongside the main approach road.
And some proud black cattle in sharp contrast.
FRIENDS OF GEILSTON : https://friendsofgeilston.org/
NATIONAL TRUST FOR SCOTLAND : https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/geilston-garden
WIKIPEDIA : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geilston_Garden
