Guisachan Gardens, nestled within Guisachan Heritage Park, is a historic and botanical treasure. Once part of the expansive estate, the site is now a public space known for its vibrant flower beds, serene ambiance, and rich history. The gardens are a favorite spot for tourists, locals, and wedding celebrations, offering a tranquil escape filled with color and charm.
The Role of the Okanagan Master Gardeners
The Okanagan Master Gardeners (OMG), in partnership with the City of Kelowna Parks Department and dedicated local volunteer gardeners, play an integral role in maintaining and enhancing the beauty of Guisachan Gardens. Together, they care for the site’s perennial and annual gardens, ensuring that this historic location continues to flourish as a community treasure.
Visiting the Gardens
Guisachan Heritage Park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM. It is located at 1060 Cameron Avenue, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 8V3.
You can find OMG volunteers in the gardens every Tuesday from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, starting in early April and continuing through the end of October. Visitors are welcome to stop by to ask gardening questions, learn from the experts, or simply enjoy the gardens.
Features of the Gardens
- Heritage Flower Beds: A mix of colorful perennials and annuals lovingly maintained by OMG and local volunteers.
- Historical Landscaping: Includes original trees and plantings from the Cameron family’s era.
- Community Engagement: OMG volunteers offer informal garden tours and answer questions for curious visitors.
Guisachan Gardens is more than just a beautiful park — it’s a place where history, community, and horticulture come together. The work of the volunteers helps this special location remain vibrant and inviting for years to come.
Historical Significance
Guisachan Heritage Park is home to the Guisachan House, built in 1891 by Lord and Lady Aberdeen. The Aberdeens named the property “Guisachan,” Gaelic for “Place of the Fir,” after Lady Aberdeen’s childhood home in Scotland. The site has seen many transformations, from a working ranch to its current role as a public park and heritage site.
The gardens were further developed by Elaine Cameron in the 1920s, featuring Edwardian landscaping that includes roses, perennials, and trees, some of which still thrive today. The property’s history is a testament to Kelowna’s agricultural and cultural roots, making it a living monument to the region’s past.
