Priorwood Garden is a National Trust for Scotland garden beside Melrose Abbey in Melrose. Behind its walls, you’ll find an orchard with more than 70 apple varieties, plants grown for dried-flower arrangements and seasonal blooms. Willow sculptures by Anna Turnbull add interest along the paths, and picnic tables look towards the abbey. It’s a quiet place to pause between visits to Melrose’s historic sights. Entry is free, with donations welcome; dogs can come too, provided they stay on a lead.
A garden for dried flowers
Priorwood is a walled garden in the historic precinct of Melrose Abbey, cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. Its planting has a particular purpose: many of the flowers and other plants are chosen for drying and arranging. The garden also has a woodland area and an orchard, giving the small site different places to explore.
The flowers change with the season. April can be early for a visit focused on blooms; the garden comes into flower from around mid-May. Dahlias are among the plants noted in the garden, and spring brings apple blossom to the orchard. The display varies over the year, so the garden’s appeal shifts with the plants in season.
The orchard and its apples
The orchard contains more than 70 varieties of apple, including heritage types. Pear and plum trees are also present. Lichen on the older apple trees adds texture to the orchard, even when the trees are not in blossom or fruit. The apples are for looking at in the garden; visitors are asked not to pick them. Apples may be available to buy from an honesty box near the entrance.
Apple Day takes place at Priorwood each October. It gives the orchard a seasonal focus and is a useful date to know if you are interested in the garden’s fruit trees. The garden also has an honesty box for plants, so bring cash if you want to make a purchase or leave a donation.
Sculptures and a place to pause
Willow sculptures by Anna Turnbull appear around the garden, among them bird forms. Their woven shapes bring an artistic element to the paths and planting. Picnic tables provide somewhere to rest, with views towards Melrose Abbey. The garden is close to the abbey, making it straightforward to include both in a visit to Melrose.
There is no café on site, but cafés and other places to eat are available nearby. Public toilets are next door, and a pay-and-display car park is across the road. The garden has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and accessible parking. Dogs are welcome on a lead.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is entry to Priorwood Garden free?
Yes. Entry is free, and donations are welcome.
When is the best time to see flowers at Priorwood Garden?
From mid-May onwards, when more flowers are in bloom. Apple blossom appears in spring.
Can I bring my dog to Priorwood Garden?
Yes. Dogs are welcome, but they should be kept on a lead.
How many apple varieties are in the orchard?
The orchard has more than 70 apple varieties. Pear and plum trees grow there too.
