In previous visits to Mull, some years ago now, a visit to Torosay was always a highlight - travelling from Craignure on the little narrow guage railway, visiting the castle, then touring the lovely and extensive gardens and finishing by sitting outside with refreshments from the tea-room. Following the sale of the castle it is now closed to visitors and sadly the railway has also closed and the trains have been sold. However the gardens remain open and are still definitely worth a visit.
The statue walk. There are 19 life-sized limestone statues in all, said to be from the workshop of the Italian sculptor Antonio Bonazza (1698-1763). They were purchased in Milan around 1900. The figure statues include 4 huntsmen, 4 gardeners, and 4 fishermen, also 7 statues of women.
Begun in 1897, the Italianate terraced garden, statue walk and watergarden were said to be laid out by Sir Robert Lorimer.
My favourite one of the statues, even if he is missing a hand.
Nice colour in the gardens.
Skunk cabbage. Quite a startling plant!
Spring flowers by the river walk.
A mass of Soloman's seal. I love the way the white flowers droop.
I was always amazed by this tree. It appears to have sprouted three further trees from its main trunk.
A spectacular view of Duart Castle from Torosay Gardens
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