Designed Landscapes
Part of the charm of the River Tweed are the historic sites associated with the watercourse.
In the 18th and 19th Century, Designed or laid out landscapes, were an important feature of the Tweed Valley and many of them survive today in the form of Parkland around Country Houses. However, after decades of harsh weather events, changes in land ownership and trees dying due to old age, many of these designed landscapes have lost some of their impressive Parkland Tree features.
The Designed Landscapes project is helping to restore these important natural and cultural assets along the River Tweed ensuring their legacy for future generations. The project will help landowners to plant around 5,000 specimen and native trees, over a 5-year period, to enhance the value of existing veteran trees and help plant the next generation of amenity trees.
Designed Landscapes is led by Tweed Forum.
Project facilitator Derek Robeson has been working with landowners at a number of sites to explore the potential of this restorative work.
Planting is now complete at three sites; Ladykirk, Traquair and The Hirsel. At Traquair, 110 trees have been planted including Sweet Chestnut, Giant Redwood, Elm, Sycamore and Aspen. Similarly, at The Hirsel, 252 trees have been planted increasing parkland trees but also re-establishing orchards within the grounds.
This work aims to conserve and regenerate Designed Landscapes and engage landowners, local communities and volunteers where possible, to ensure the lasting legacy of these historically significant sites of both natural and cultural heritage.