And it's the North Atlantic Drift, that portion of the Gulf Stream bathing the western seaboard of Scotland, that explains why some Highland gardeners are actually quite well favoured. The mild airs from the Atlantic take the edge off the winter frosts in particular, protecting tender plants that in many places further south simply would not survive the chill.

That's why somewhere like Inverewe Gardens at Poolewe are a place of pilgrimage for thousands of gardeners, who come to marvel at the range of species from the temperate zones of the world which prosper here. Of course, Inverewe is simply the most famous example - there are lots more places to visit, from Loch Ness-side right up to Caithness - and including Kerrachar garden in the north-west that is only accessible by boat!

From the famous blue poppies to the Chilean flame tree, giant rhododendrons to delicate primulas - the peaty soils, moisture and mildness of northern gardens will be a revelation.