Branklyn Garden (National Trust for Scotland)

Two acres tucked into the outskirts of Perth that punch well above their weight. Branklyn Garden is the sort of place you stumble upon and think, 'How did I not know about this?' It's a proper plantsman's garden - the kind where every corner reveals something you've never seen before, whether that's a rare alpine or a specimen tree doing something genuinely unusual.

The garden was created in the 1920s by John and Barbara Ramsay, and you can feel their obsessive eye throughout. Winding paths lead you past collections of rhododendrons, azaleas, and unusual shrubs arranged in a way that feels natural rather than formal. Spring and early summer are phenomenal - the colour is frankly startling - but it's worth visiting in autumn too. The Japanese maples turn properly dramatic.

This is absolutely a destination for plant enthusiasts and keen gardeners who'll spend two to three hours with a plant list and magnifying glass. For casual visitors, an hour suffices, though you might find yourself lingering longer than expected. Children without a botanical bent will find it pleasant but unspectacular - there's no playground, no gimmicks, just gardens.

It's run by the National Trust for Scotland, so admission costs a few quid, though annual membership makes sense if you're visiting multiple NTS properties. The garden sits on the northern edge of Perth, making it an easy add-on to a stay at either Scone Camping and Caravanning Club Site or Perth Caravan Park. Time your visit for May if you want the garden at its showiest.