Bughtrig Garden, Borders

History

Whilst the core of the current Bughtrig House was built in the 1780s, it is thought that there were earlier buildings on the site.  The house is notable for only having been in three families since this time - the Dickson, the May, and Ramsay families, who have lived here since 1936.

The garden has been developed since the 18th century, and has gradually replaced a small old farm that was on the site, the buildings of which you will see on arrival at the garden.  The walls from the old farmers cottages form one side of the picnic area.

The garden was partially redesigned in between 1936 and 1960 by Lady Margaret Ramsay, who laid out the grass walk, with the beach hedge on either side.  Lady Ramsay's husband, Sir Bertram, was an Admiral in the second world war, achieving outstanding success as the mastermind of the Dunkirk evacuation in 1940 and as the naval commander-in-chief at D-Day.  A statue of Admiral Sir Bertram Home Ramsay KCB KBE MVO can be found in the garden. Their grandson, William Ramsay, lives in Bughtrig with his wife, Natasha.

An amusing fact is that the gardener's name is Mark Gardner: he must have known from an early age he was destined to become one!  You may find him, in which case do say hello - he will be happy to tell you a little about his work.

Grounds & Gardens

One of the gardens greatest assets is its excellent protection from the wind, being surrounded by many fine old trees including both traditional hardwoods and softwoods such as Wellingtonias, which provide winter shelter and which were planted by the Dickson family in 1870s.

The garden has a small picnic area, where you can make yourself at home.

Special arrangements can be made for bona fide groups to view the Georgian House which contains several interesting artefacts.