View from the upper terrace of then gardens at Airds Farm over the fields to Crossmichael. Colourful poppies enhance the view which our guests can enjoy while relaxing in our extensive gardens brimming with colour almost all times of year. Many old favourites such as Peony, Crocosmia, Aubretia, lupin and heathers enjoy the fertile acids soil. South-facing, the terraced gardens are a sun-trapo, yet offer shelter from prevailing winds. Watching the evening light fade, or a suberb sunset is a special delight for our guests.

The gardens at Airds have been extensively altered since we took over. The upper retaining wall has been converted partly into a rock face using large natural rocks obtained from the surrounding fields and planted with alpines and rock plants. A lower retaining wall has also been constructed using dry stone dyking techniques and a terrace formed level with the top. A small formal pond with fish and water plants forms a centrepiece. Reclaimed sandstone steps (formerly part of the Drumskelly railway bridge demolished in the 1960s) provide access. The lower terrace offers a relaxing and sheltered place where our guests may enjoy the panoramic views over loch Ken and the Galloway hills.