Castle Kennedy Gardens has invested a significant amount into their online presence with the development of a new website which will help bring even more visitors to the area this Summer.
Visitor numbers to the Gardens increased in 2014 by 9%, year on year, and it is hoped the digital investment, as well as a bigger focus on social media channels, will help the Gardens target key audiences even more effectively. Stair Estates employ 43 staff directly and support hundreds of local contractors throughout the year, most of whom live within a ten mile radius of its location.
The new website www.castlekennedygardens.com presents one of Scotland’s most magnificent Gardens as a place to be enjoyed by everyone with vibrant images of the stunning Galloway location and detailing activities and events available throughout the year, suitable for a variety of ages.
An easy site to navigate www.castlekennedygardens.com is clearly formatted with menu headings including a ‘What’s On’ events listing, information on tickets and prices, details on how to plan a visit, suggestions of how to get involved with the Gardens as well as eating and shopping ideas.
Information on Castle Kennedy Gardens as a unique and unforgettable wedding venue are highlighted as well as the luxury VisitScotland four star self-catering accommodation available within the Lochinch Heritage Estate.
Other features of the site include the online booking facility which will allow visitors easy access to the Gardens and the freedom to book events and activities in advance and at a discounted price. The website is also fully integrated with social media channels such as facebook, twitter and google+ and these are being updated regularly with the latest news and offers.
A specific section on the Gardens offers a virtual Gardens tour and informs visitors of what’s in bloom at the current time using stunning new imagery commissioned as part of Castle Kennedy Garden’s latest investment. Local suppliers are used regularly and as much as possible by Stair Estates and it is the imagery of Galloway photographers Colin Tennant, David Moses and Andrew Jardine which has been used for the new site and social media activity.
Rare are an award-winning creative communications business, creating original and intelligent design, based in London.
The Earl of Stair said;
“We are delighted to be investing in a stronger online presence this year to promote this glorious part of the world. We are very proud of Castle Kennedy Gardens and the experience we can offer both local residents and visitors to the area within this fantastic location, whether they be coming for a great day out, staying in our luxury accommodation as part of a wedding party or enjoying a fun, family break.
“Our new website is packed full of relevant information with stunning imagery from the Gardens and we hope to connect with even more potential visitors this year and encourage them to visit this very special part of Scotland.”
Peter Higgins, Managing Director of Rare, said;
“Our design was inspired by the awesome beauty of the Gardens and surrounding countryside; this truly is one of Scotland’s hidden treasures.”
The spectacular Gardens are set in 75 acres of magnificent land with popular walks, bird hides and elaborate terraces and land sculptures, as well as the ruins of 16 century Castle Kennedy.
This year several new exciting children’s activities are being introduced such as Den Building, Tepee Shelters, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, Mud Faces and Can you light and Cook on a Fire? Plant Propagation and Seed Sowing sessions are also new for 2015 as well as the popular Guided Walks offering expert advice on the rare and exotic plants to be found at Castle Kennedy Gardens.
A new menu has also been introduced into the Tea Room to celebrate this Scotland’s Year of Food and Drink and fantastic imagery of what is being served can be found on the new website to whet the appetite.
For more information on Castle Kennedy Gardens visit www.castlekennedygardens.com
