Little Sparta

Set in the Pentland Hills near Edinburgh, Little Sparta is Ian Hamilton Finlay’s greatest work of art.

About Little Sparta

	Little Sparta Stonypath, Dunsyre ML11 8NG
	Little Sparta Website
	Facebook information can be found here

Listed Under Attractions - Gardens and Parks

Imbued with a high idea content, the garden is created from the artistic fusion of poetic and sculptural elements with those of the natural landscape which is shaped and changed to become an inherent part of the concepts realised at Little Sparta.

While works of art are commonly viewed in galleries, public parks and streets, museums and private houses, it is perhaps a unique achievement to have created a garden which is itself a major artwork encompassing within it both horticultural elements and individual works in such materials as stone, wood and metal.

Finlay’s intentions are moral and philosophical as well as poetic. The themes dealt with in the garden are those which underlie the structures of society. The French Revolution, pre-Socratic views of the nature of the world. The Second World War, the sea and its fishing fleets are among the sources of metaphor and image which are realised in the garden’s art works which now number over 275.

We take every opportunity to ensure the details for Little Sparta are accurate, if any of the above information is incorrect we would appreciate if you could take a minute to suggest an edit.

All information (whether in text or photographs) is supplied in good faith but should not be relied upon as being a statement of representation or fact.

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Upcoming Events at Little Sparta

Gardening

Scotland’s Gardens Scheme Open Garden: Little Sparta

Selected dates between 25th June 2024 - 3rd September 2024

Little Sparta, Dunsyre

Little Sparta is Ian Hamilton Finlay's greatest work of art. Come and explore the grounds as part of Scotland’s Gardens Scheme!

Gardens and Parks

Alexander Hamilton Memorial Park

Alexander Hamilton Memorial Park Lawrie Street, Stonehouse ML9 3LN

Alexander Hamilton Memorial Park is a multi levelled park with an extensive pathway network leading to all levels. It includes a bandstand area, three...

Gardens and Parks

Scottish Wildlife Trust: Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve and Visitor Centre

The Dyeworks New Lanark Mills, Lanark ML11 9DB

The Scottish Wildlife Trust Falls of Clyde and Visitor Centre is nestled in the Clyde Valley and is part of the Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve.

Gardens and Parks

Mosswater Local Nature Reserve

Mosswater Local Nature Reserve , Cumbernauld

After several years of work to improve this site for wildlife and people Mosswater in Cumbernauld has been designated a Local Nature Reserve.

Gardens and Parks

James Hamilton Heritage Park

James Hamilton Heritage Park Stewartfield Way, East Kilbride G74 5LB

James Hamilton Heritage Park is a 4 Star Visit Scotland accredited activity centre located in East Kilbride.

Gardens and Parks

Cumbernauld Glen

, Cumbernauld

Cumbernauld Glen's ancient woodland is a haven for wildlife and the varied ground vegetation reflects the age of the site. Vast carpets of bluebells flower from May to June.

Gardens and Parks

Strathclyde Country Park

Hamilton Road, Motherwell ML1 3RT

Thousands of visitors each year enjoy the huge range of activities available at Strathclyde Country Park from sailing to sunbathing, birdwatching to cycling, water ski-ing to watching the world go by!

Gardens and Parks

David Livingstone Birthplace

165 Station Road, Blantyre G72 9BY

The David Livingstone Birthplace celebrates the birthplace and legacy of Dr David Livingstone in Blantyre and across Africa!

Gardens and Parks

Drumpellier Country Park

Drumpellier Country Park , Coatbridge ML5 2EH

Drumpellier Country Park has lots to do for a great family day out including a Visitor Centre, cafe, wildlife displays and adventure playground!

Gardens and Parks

Holmhills Wood Community Park

Holmhills Wood Community Park Holmhills Grove, Cambuslang G72 8

Holmhills Wood Community Park runs from Greenlees Road to Langlea Drive and is an important part of the greenspace for Cambuslang. It includes Holmhills...

Gardens and Parks

Dalzell Estate

Dalzell Estate Manse Road, Motherwell ML1 2SD

Whether you are looking for a peaceful place to relax or an exciting place to explore, Dalzell Estate is the perfect place to visit.

Gardens and Parks

Chatelherault Country Park

Chatelherault Country Park Fernegair, Hamilton ML3 7UE

Chatelherault Country Park, a five star visitor attraction under the Visit Scotland grading scheme, has been described as a jewel in the local landscape.

Gardens and Parks