As you head west from Glasgow along the A82 towards Loch Lomond you pass from Dumbartonshire into the highly sought-after “Argyll” postcode. Well, that’s a double-edged sword. Once you get into Argyll the scenery becomes, well, stunning. Everything the West Coast of Scotland is famous for; views, rolling hills, lochs [and midges in summer…ed]. A short survey suggests that the trusted Royal Mail [and therefore all those worthy business with whom we place our on-line business] have a marked reluctance to deliver to the nether reaches of the western isles without huffing and puffing, and adding surcharges. It’s not as if the Arctic, for heavens sake.

Not far out of the conservation village of Cardross you come across Geilston Garden, a National Trust for Scotland property. A beautiful garden with excellent play facilities for wee scots and, when the sun is shining, an object lesson in drawing shadows for architectural students – see photo below. The 45 degree shadows are perfect.

Just along from Geilston, on the left, you’ll find Ardarden Estate. Unlike many “farm shops” Ardarden really is a working farm…not just a stall at the end of the drive with a few boxes of eggs and an honesty box. The shop stocks a wide range of local produce, including their own, and the garden centre is a great source of plants that will actually grow in the locality…amazing! Christmas sees Santa rides on the tractor driven by Grant. Can’t wait.

Farm shop Ardardan Estate

Their strap line is “Eat Shop Walk Enjoy” … funny coincidence, eh?

Geilston Garden, and perfectly formed shadows, architects take note…

…and a great play area