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

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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

Kingshill Local Nature Reserve

Kingshill Local Nature Reserve Allanton, Shotts ML7

Kingshill Local Nature Reserve is a special place for people and wildlife close to the village of Allanton near Shotts.

Gardens and Parks

Ravenswood Local Nature Reserve

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Ravenswood Local Nature Reserve is a valuable wetland site situated on the north side of Cumbernauld, it's an enjoyable place to take a stroll, cycle or take your dog for a walk!

Gardens and Parks

Drumpellier Country Park

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Gardens and Parks

Gartcosh Local Nature Reserve

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Gardens and Parks

Cambuslang Park

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Gardens and Parks

Chatelherault Country Park

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Gardens and Parks

Kilbride Woodlands

1 Burley Place, East Kilbride G74 5LZ

The East Kilbride Community Trust (EKCT) are in the early stages of establishing a Community Woodland in the vicinity of Peel Park, East Kilbride, with...

Gardens and Parks

Palacerigg Country Park

Palacerigg Country Park , Cumbernauld G67 3HU

Explore the 10km network of nature trails and footpaths at Palacerigg Country Park, Cumbernauld!

Gardens and Parks

James Hamilton Heritage Park

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

Gardens and Parks

Cuningar Loop Woodland Park

Cuningar Loop Woodland Park , Rutherglen G73 1PW

Located in Rutherglen, across the Clyde from the Commonwealth Games Athletes' Village, Cuningar Loop has transformed 15 hectares of derelict, unused land into an attractive community greenspace!

Gardens and Parks