Glorious Gardens And Heritage

Majestic historic houses, inspiring gardens and Scotland’s largest parish church. A Fascinating tour for those with an interest in art, arhitecture, history and gardening.

Who does it appeal to?

Those with an interest in history, architecture, art and gardening.

What can we see and do?

A Grand Church and Country House

St Mary’s Parish Church is located in the county town of Haddington. This impressive church has cathedral like proportions and is perfectly situated to enable you to enjoy a stroll through the market town with its river walk and unique shops.

For over 700 years, Lennoxlove House has been a major feature on the East Lothian landscape. Set within a walled estate of 460 acres the parkland offers a spectacular setting for this 14th century house.

World’s Largest Herbaceous Border

Dirleton Castle is a fine example of a fortified medieval residence in the beautiful village of Dirleton. Within its walls are colourful gardens including the world’s largest herbaceous border.

National Trust for Scotland

Musselburgh is the location for two National Trust for Scotland attractions. Inveresk Lodge Garden is a must see for keen gardeners. Set on a hillside the stunning displays feature herbaceous borders, unusual plants, old roses and shrubs. Newhailes is a dignified 17th century home. It features much of the original decorative scheme including Chinese hand painted wallpaper, painted woodwork and furniture.

What are the main attractions?

St Mary’s Parish Church, Lennoxlove House, Dirleton Castle, Inveresk Lodge Gardens and Newhailes House.

Where are the main locations?

Haddington, Dirleton and Musselburgh

How long does it take?

One to two days

Accessibility

Easy/Moderate

Shopping

Yes

Refreshments

Yes

Coach parking

• St Mary’s Parish Church, Free Parking
• Dirleton Castle, Coach Drop off
• Inveresk Lodge Garden, Free Parking, Newhailes, Free Parking

Special rates for coach and tour groups

• St Mary’s Church Donations Welcomed
• Dirleton Castle Special Rates
• Inveresk Lodge Garden Special Rates And Driver/Guide Concessions
• Newhailes Special Rates And Driver/Guide Concessions

How do we book?

You can select where you want to go from the suggestions above or choose to visit them all. Advance booking is recommended; please contact each attraction direct to book and for the best available group offers.

Contacts

St Mary’s Parish Church

Rena Ramsay. Telephone 01620 824494.
Email groupvisits@stmaryskirk.com

Dirleton Castle

Telephone  Adnrew Spratt 01620 850 330

Inveresk Lodge Garden and Newhailes

Contact Anne Edwards. Telephone 0844 493 2104.
Email traveltrade@nts.org.uk

 

Under the Scotland's Gardens Scheme, owners open their gardens throughout the summer with proceeds going to Scottish charities.  Have look at our events section for further details.