Scotland’s Gardens Scheme
Scotland's Gardens Scheme was founded in 1931 to raise money for the Queen's Nursing Institute Scotland before the creation of the National Health Service. Over 250 gardens opened in the first year, including Balmoral Castle, the Scottish home of the Royal Family since 1852.
In 1939, the ‘Dig for Victory’ campaign saw many formal gardens transformed into vegetable beds. Scotland’s Gardens Scheme was held in such high esteem that extra petrol was allocated to mow the lawns. Visitors were kindly asked in the handbook to 'please bring your own sugar to gardens where tea is provided'.
When the National Health Service was formed in 1948, the needs of the Queen's Nursing Institute were reduced, so additional beneficiaries were added, including The National Trust of Scotland. Money is now gifted to hundreds of charities in local communities, including the Maggie Centres.
The Scotlands Gardens website contains further information plus an interactive map where you can search for gardens and opening times.