A new treat is in store for Hays visiting or living in Perthshire as the beautiful gardens of Megginch Castle are now open to the public.

The castle itself, built in the 15th century by the Hays of Megginch, remains a private house and is not available for public viewing, but the extensive gardens are a joy to behold.  Largely laid out in the 19th century, and lovingly maintained by the late Lady Strange, visitors can wander among the ancient yews and topiary, through the walled garden with its long herbaceous borders, into the double-walled kitchen garden and orchard, and onward to the Gothic stableyard with its pagoda style doo'cot, where home made teas and cakes are served.

The gardens are open to the public every day between April and October between 2.00 pm and 5.00 pm.  Admission is a bargain at £4.00 per adult and children go free.

The castle is situated almost midway between Dundee and Perth, close to the village of Errol.  The public entrance opens directly off the main road, so due to the central reservation, can only be accessed coming from the direction of Dundee.