Kilmun Arboretum

Hillside arboretum with over 150 tree species

There's nothing quite like Kilmun anywhere else in Scotland. The arboretum is home to more than 150 tree species from around the world. Meander through its small forests of silver firs, giant sequoia, coastal redwoods, Oregon maple and Chilean southern beech and you'll wonder why it isn't better known.

Back in 1930, over 260 different species were planted here to see how suitable they might be for Scotland. Many of the trees didn't like our climate or soils, but many have done amazingly well, growing faster and larger than they would at home. Today Kilmun Arboretum is a tree collection of international note and a unique experience for all tree lovers.

Walking trails

Kilmun Arboretum route card (PDF)

Walking

John Jackson Trail

A brief introduction to the exotic species of the arboretum, taking in ornamental maples, Japanese cedars and Himalayan spruces.

Firm gravel surface throughout with some slightly uneven sections. First section is wide and easy-going, the return includes short steep slopes and one bridge 0.9m wide.

¼ miles / 0.4 km

Allow
¼ hour

More information

Named after local forester John Jackson, this gentle stroll is full of colour and interest at any time of the year.

Walking

Conifer Trail

Climb the hillside to encounter redwoods and sequoias from California and monkey puzzles from South America, as well as great views over Holy Loch and the mountains of Cowal.

Firm but uneven gravel surface, with some grassy sections. Some long steep slopes.

¾ miles / 1.3 km

Allow
½ hour

More information

Get to know the conifers of Kilmun by sight and smell. These huge varieties of larch, spruce and hemlock all smell differently, so take time to stop and sniff too.

Walking

Eucalyptus Trail

Visit some guests from Down Under on this breathtaking circuit of the arboretum. On a warm day, the wonderful aroma will transport you to the Australian bush.

Uneven gravel paths with some grassy sections. Some long steep slopes and bridges.

1 miles / 1.6 km

Allow
¾ hour

More information

Wander through exotic groves of Australian eucalyptus with their peeling bark and characteristic scent. Oil glands cover the leathery leaves and exude their aroma on hot summer days.

Facilities and access

Walking

Parking

Arboretum

Picnic area

The nearest public toilets are at Dunoon or at the Benmore Garden café.

Getting here

The car park for Kilmun Arboretum is at the western end of Kilmun village. The turn-off to Kilmun village is well signposted from the A815 about 4 miles north of Dunoon.

Using SatNav?

PA23 8SJ is the nearest postcode. 

Please note, some Satnav devices will give this as an access point for Puck's Glen. This is not the case, there is no vehicular access to Puck's Glen from Kilmun Arboretum.

Public transport

Regular buses between Dunoon and Ardentinny stop at Kilmun pier, 10 minutes walk from the Arboretum. Plan your journey at Traveline Scotland.

Get directions