The Hidden Gardens

A garden with a past

The site was once woodland, then a plant nursery and later part of the city's tram works, and the design references all three. A freestanding 30-metre chimney stands at its centre, and artworks by Alec Finlay, Julie Brooks, Stephen Skrynka and others are set into the planting. City Design Co-operative led the design with the arts group NVA.

What it is today

The garden is run by an independent charity and describes itself as Scotland's sanctuary garden dedicated to peace. It is a community space as much as a visitor one, with volunteering, biodiversity projects and a seasonal events programme including heritage talks, heritage tours and craft workshops. The Bothy offers bookable creative space. Its paths and benches suit a quiet half hour away from the traffic of the south side.

Visiting

Enter through Tramway on Albert Drive; Pollokshields East station is close by. The garden opens Tuesday to Sunday, so do not plan a Monday visit. Combine it with an exhibition or performance at Tramway, or continue to Pollok Country Park and the Burrell Collection further south. Spring and summer are the best seasons for colour, but the structure of the garden makes it worth a visit in autumn too.

Highlights

• Peace and sanctuary garden run by a charity
• Built on a former nursery and tram works site
• 30-metre freestanding chimney at its centre
• Site-specific artworks within the planting
• Seasonal events and heritage tours

Good to know

• Access is via the Tramway arts centre on Albert Drive.
• Open Tuesday to Sunday; closed Mondays.
• Events such as heritage tours may need booking through the garden's website.

Frequently asked questions