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The House of Dun is a small but handsome Georgian mansion built to a William Adam design in 1730. Close to the coastal Angus town of Montrose, it enjoys commanding views over the Montrose Basin.
A navigational aid
By far the most notable landscape feature is the line of 16 giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) trees which dominate the skyline. Not only do these provide an impressive setting for the house, but such is their prominence in the landscape that apparently modern-day mariners use them as a navigational aid.
Early specimens
The trees are reputed to be some of the earliest examples of the species in Scotland, having been planted only two years after it was introduced in 1853. They are handsome specimens which appear to be able to tolerate the rather exposed, coastal conditions, and are remarkably uniform in appearance.
One of the largest trees measures 7 metres (23 feet) in girth and 37 metres (121 feet) in height, although the tallest has attained a respectable 39 metres (128 feet).
Where to see the House of Dun Redwoods:
The House of Dun is on the A935, 4.8km (3 miles) west of Montrose, Angus. It is a property of the National Trust for Scotland and is well signposted. The grounds are open throughout the year. Admission charges apply.
Image: copyright Edward Parker
