Atholl Estates in Pitlochry—home to the iconic Blair Castle and Gardens—has recently upgraded its grounds maintenance equipment with the addition of an ISEKI SF225 ride-on mower, supplied by Fairways GM in Kinross. This investment supports the upkeep of the estate’s extensive and diverse landscapes. 

Located in the southern reaches of the Cairngorms National Park, Blair Castle has served as the ancestral seat of the Atholl family for over 750 years. Rich in history, the castle has evolved through centuries of architectural change and remains a major heritage attraction. Today, the estate welcomes approximately 140,000 visitors annually. 

Among the highlights is the Hercules Garden—a nine-acre walled enclosure restored to its original 18th-century design. It features landscaped ponds, a Chinese bridge, contemporary plantings, and an orchard of over 100 fruit trees. Visitors can also enjoy a range of self-catering accommodation, from spacious lodges to a fully equipped caravan park. 

Teal Standen, Gardens Projects Manager and Jim Hodge, Head Gardener at Atholl Estates, explained the reasoning behind the upgrade:
“Our previous mower had reached the end of its serviceable life, and we faced a choice between costly repairs or replacement. We opted for the ISEKI SF225, which offers a more powerful Stage V-compliant engine, a wide cutting deck and a larger grass clipping collector.” 

The mower will be primarily used at the 10-acre Blair Atholl Caravan Park but will also be deployed in the historic Hercules Garden and on the formal lawns leading to the castle.
“These areas present a mix of terrain and mowing requirements. At the caravan park, we have large areas which require self-mulching and elsewhere, various garden grounds which demand different cutting heights. The SF225’s front deck allows a clear vision before we mow—ideal for tight spots and sensitive landscaping—and its large collector is a real asset.” 

Fairways GM’s Area Sales Manager, Mike Lindsay, provided support throughout the sales process and installation.