In the mid to late 19th century estate owners competed with each other to support plant hunting expeditions to India, China, Chile, the western USA and other remote areas. They then grew trees and shrubs from wild collected seed. The result of this "competitive gardening" is an extensive number of arboretum around the UK - especially Scotland. Ardmarnoch is priviledged to have one. When the current owners took over in '97 the area was lost in thidrells of Rhododendron Pontica. This is now cleared and visitors can explore the area, examine the trees, and enjoy the spectacular views across the loch and Kintyre and Knapdale. We are actively engaged in large scale shrub planting and selective tree planting to compliment the remaining trees with additional varieties which will be enjoyed by future generations.

The arboretum covers 10-15 acres and the policy woodlands surrounding it another 70-75 acres. We encourage you to walk around and admire the many fine Beeches, Oaks and other british trees. Also to examine many good specimin of non-natives such as Atlas Cedar, Monterey Pine, Western Hemlock, Japanese Red Cedar, Japanese Umbrella Pine, Caucasion Wing Nut, etc..