Malleny Garden

Malleny Garden is a walled garden of three acres in the Edinburgh suburb of Balerno, beside a 17th-century house that is not open, and its fame rests on roses and yews. The National Trust for Scotland holds a National Collection of 19th-century shrub roses here, more than 100 varieties among some 150 roses in all, at their best in June and July, alongside lavender, philadelphus and long herbaceous borders. Through a wrought-iron gate stand the Four Evangelists, clipped yew trees some 400 years old, and a glasshouse, a doocot and a woodland walk make up the rest. Only assistance dogs may enter the walled garden, but dogs on a short lead are welcome in the woodland beyond. Reviewers come for the scent in midsummer and the quiet, and say it suits a slow hour rather than a full day. Tips from visitors: parking is limited and a short walk from the gate, the gravel paths slope in the lower half, and the number 44 bus from the city centre stops in Balerno.