After qualifying in horticulture, the owner Robert Lyle spent several years working in the industry before setting up his own nursery business in 1992. Over this period Gowanbrae has built up a worthy reputation for the quality and presentation of its stock. Very much a traditional nursery, visitors are able to view the display beds and plants at their various stages of growth.

There is always a large selection of finished plants available throughout the year including alpines, perennials, shrubs, conifers and rhododendrons. The nursery is located on the scenic route between New Abbey and the Colvend Coast, and visitors are welcome and encouraged to browse at leisure.