Brackenbank Plantation

Wood, Forest in Ayrshire

Scotland

Brackenbank Plantation

View from Portencross Castle The masonry on the right of the photo is part of the castle, a scheduled ancient monument built in phases from the fourteenth century (although it is on the site of earlier fortifications) and restored and maintained by the Friends of Portencross Castle — View from Portencross Castle Credit: Alan O'Dowd

Brackenbank Plantation is a picturesque woodland located in Ayrshire, Scotland. Spanning over a vast area of approximately 200 acres, this plantation is renowned for its diverse ecosystem and breathtaking natural beauty.

The plantation is predominantly composed of various species of trees, including oak, beech, and birch, which create a dense and vibrant forest canopy. The forest floor is adorned with a lush carpet of ferns and wildflowers, adding to the enchanting atmosphere of the woodland.

Brackenbank Plantation is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, as it provides a habitat for numerous species of animals and birds. Visitors can often spot red squirrels, foxes, and badgers, as well as a variety of bird species such as woodpeckers, owls, and finches.

The plantation offers an extensive network of well-maintained walking trails, allowing visitors to explore its hidden treasures. These trails wind through the woodland, providing an opportunity to immerse oneself in the tranquility of nature. The plantation also features a picnic area, where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by the serene ambiance of the forest.

Brackenbank Plantation is open to the public throughout the year, offering a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts and those seeking solace in the midst of the natural world. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and well-preserved woodland, Brackenbank Plantation is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the beauty of Ayrshire.

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Brackenbank Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.715067/-4.8886345 or Grid Reference NS1850. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

View from Portencross Castle

The masonry on the right of the photo is part of the castle, a scheduled ancient monument built in phases from the fourteenth century (although it is on the site of earlier fortifications) and restored and maintained by the Friends of Portencross Castle

Alan O'Dowd

Mown grass in field north of Portencross

Flat farmland by the Firth of Clyde below Waterside Hill.

Alan O'Dowd

On the track to Goldenberry Hill

The trees of Thicket Plantation lie ahead.

Gordon Brown

Looking down on Thirdpart Holdings

I believe this row of small-holdings was originally established after WW1 for returning servicemen - unless anyone knows better?

Gordon Brown

The Portencross Murder - Northbank Cottage

Northbank Cottage was the scene of the murder of Miss Mary Speir Gunn, on the evening of 18th October 1913. Murder of Mary Speir Gunn Link

Raibeart MacAoidh

West Kilbride - Forget Me Not

This lovely wrought ironwork sign and seat at the junction of the A78 and B782 was gifted by Lodge Royal Arch West Kilbride № 314.

Raibeart MacAoidh

Northbank Cottage

Located on the raised beach at the foot of the old sea cliffs.

Mary and Angus Hogg

The North Harbour, Portencross

In the 1800s, around 30 fishing boats worked from Portencross. The pier was built in the early 20th century to accommodate Clyde steamers but its exposed location was always problematic.

Mary and Angus Hogg

Modern cottages at Portencross

The two houses on the left are called Sannox and Corrie, both named after places on the Island of Arran.

Mary and Angus Hogg

Coastline north of Portencross

Looking north up the Ayrshire coast from Portencross, with Great Cumbrae in the distance.

Scott Cormie

Small harbour by Portencross Castle near West Kilbride

Colin Park

On the Ayrshire Coast Path below Ardneil Hill near Portencross

Evidence of a raised beach with inland cliffs.

Colin Park

Goldenberry Hill

The 140m hill at Hunterston, viewed from the A78.

Thomas Nugent

Shore at Portencross

Looking north from the end of the road, towards the pier.

Stephen Sweeney

Coast road, Portencross

The unsurfaced private road runs past the pier. It is signposted as a path.

Richard Webb

Spotted at Portencross

The rain finally caught up with me on this raised beach. Ghastly dark day, one of many in 2011. My humour was not helped by being a site moderator at the time; I had to look at lots of sunny shots of England during this forgettable year.

Richard Webb

Arable land, Ardneil

Straw still out in the rain beside the beach at Ardneil. The harvest in 2011 was constantly thwarted by rain. It was an appalling year in East Lothian, Scotland's driest county, what must had it been like in the west?

Richard Webb