A POPULAR visitor attraction near Helensburgh has been named one of the best places in Scotland to see bluebells this spring.

Geilston Garden in Cardross, owned by the National Trust for Scotland, was one of three Argyll gardens on a list of top nature destinations across the country.

Discover Scottish Gardens urged residents and travellers to take in the delicate blue flowers as they flourish.

They said of Geilston: "The window in the potting shed, built into the walled garden, opens into a secret glade where the banks of a sparkling burn are carpeted with bluebells and other spring flowers.

"This small estate near Cardross is filled with charming features, as well as a huge vegetable garden where the first stalks from a large collection of rhubarbs are now ready for picking."

Alana Ingram, from the Friends of Geilston Gardons, the venue's independent supporter group, said: "The bluebells at Geilston are lighting up the woodland areas and also creating that wonderful distinctive fragrance.

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"In the walled garden the azaleas are bursting into flower and the wood anemones are brightening up the borders - they look delicate but are so strong and hardy."

The Friends of Geilston are holding their first event of the season next weekend with a Tea in the Garden with refreshments, homemade cake and the ladies of Helensburgh's Tartan Harmony choir providing their distinctive a capella performance.

Tea in the Garden runs from 11am to 3pm on May 11. Normal Geilston entry charges apply, which means admission is free if you're a member of the National Trust for Scotland.

Alison Farrell, National Trust for Scotland head gardener at Geilston Gardens, said: “We’re delight to be named as one of the top 10 places in Scotland to see bluebells by Discover Scottish Gardens.

"This year has seen a great showing of bluebells in Geilston Garden thanks to the wetter weather conditions we’ve had in the west of Scotland.

"The delicate Spring flowers thrive in woodlands areas and the paths approaching Geilston Burn are surrounded by a spectacular carpet of bluebells that offers a different aspect of the traditional 200-year-old garden that we have here.

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"It’s testament to the great garden team we have and the many volunteers who lend their time and support to keep the garden looking as good as it does all year round.

"The woodland areas and wider garden offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, and we’d encourage garden novices, plant enthusiasts and garden lovers a like to make a visit to Geilston to enjoy a special day out.”