Loch Lomond Oakwoods

These fragments of native sessile oakwoods sit along much of the eastern sides of the loch, as well as downy and silver birch. There are also a variety of oaks which were planted for charcoal from the 17th to 19th century. A short boat trip leads to arguably the most interesting woods, out in the loch on the island of Inchcailloch.

20 Carrochan Road, Balloch, Alexandria, G83 8EG

Rothiemurchus Forest

One of the greatest of Scotland’s Caledonian pine forests is Rothiemurchus, where the vast expanse and Cairngorm mountains make for incredible views. The forest was privately owned for 500 years until it was sold to the Forestry Commission in 2014. The forest is so popular it’s been described by David Attenborough as one of wild Scotland’s glories.

Rothiemurchus Centre, Aviemore, PH22 1QH

Wood of Cree

This woodland is the largest of its kind in southern Scotland, coppiced for centuries and was close to being clear felled by the 1930s. The forest today is looked after by the RSPB, and there’s a variety of birds to be seen including willow warblers, and otters in the river.

Newton Stewart, DG8 6SP

Glen Feshie

This glen is undoubtedly one of Scotland’s most beautiful, sitting deep in the mountains its forest are responsible for most of its beauty. After years of decline, the pinewoods are regenerating incredibly well thanks to the conservation policies of the glen’s current owner who has greatly reduced the deer numbers.

Glen Feshie, Highland, PH21 1NH

Carrifran Wildwood

Less of an ancient woodland and more of a work in progress. Since 2000 this spectacular ice-gouged glen has been is the site of the Carrifran Wildwood which is being restored to ecological health by volunteers. By re-establishing native trees, and intervening just enough to allow nature to regain its grip, visitors can better understand what the land would once have looked like.

Moffat, 9LH