Colour photograph, 1996
Survey by RCAHMS
Drummond Castle boasts one of the finest examples of a formal garden in Europe. This RCAHMS photograph captures the snow-covered splendour of these Italianate grounds.
A formal garden was first laid out at the castle in 1630 by the 2nd Earl of Perth. Some of the sculpture from this early design still remains, including an elaborate multi-faced sundial carved by Charles I's master mason.
The current garden was planned in the early nineteenth century, creating a design based on a saltire cross centred on the old sundial. Work on this design was carried out by a team working from 1818-68 under the supervision of the famous gardener, Lewis Kennedy.
The garden fell into disrepair during both World Wars due to the lack of manpower to maintain its upkeep. This has resulted in the current, more simplified layout of the grounds.