Crosshouse Plantation

Wood, Forest in Ayrshire

Scotland

Crosshouse Plantation

End-terrace on Maxwood Road Credit: Alan Reid

Crosshouse Plantation is a sprawling woodland located in Ayrshire, Scotland. Covering an area of approximately 1,000 acres, it is a significant natural asset in the region. The plantation is situated on the outskirts of the village of Crosshouse, just a short distance from the town of Kilmarnock.

The woodland is predominantly composed of a mixture of coniferous and deciduous trees, offering a diverse and picturesque landscape. The forest is home to a variety of native tree species, including Scots pine, oak, birch, and beech. These trees provide a habitat for numerous bird species, such as woodpeckers and owls, as well as small mammals like red squirrels and voles.

Crosshouse Plantation boasts a network of well-maintained paths and trails, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks or more challenging hikes through the forest, immersing themselves in nature and appreciating the tranquility that the woodland provides. The plantation also offers opportunities for birdwatching, with designated areas where enthusiasts can observe and study the local avifauna.

In addition to its natural beauty, Crosshouse Plantation has historical significance. The site was once part of the extensive landholdings of the local aristocracy, and remnants of old estate walls and structures can still be found within the woodland. These remnants serve as a reminder of the area's rich past and add an extra layer of intrigue for those exploring the plantation.

Overall, Crosshouse Plantation is a cherished natural asset in Ayrshire, offering a wide range of activities and opportunities for visitors to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the Scottish countryside.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Crosshouse Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.614334/-4.3874052 or Grid Reference NS4938. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

End-terrace on Maxwood Road

Alan Reid

Waterside, Galston

Alan Reid

Sheltered corner at Castle Hill

Alan Reid

Alton Burn

Running to the left through the rushes.

Alan Reid

Barr Castle - Galston, East Ayrshire

The present tower dates from the 16th century and was the family seat of the Lockhart family until 1670. It passed to the Campbell's of Cessnock and was used as a domicile. It has been used as a barn, a grain store, a town jail, a cholera hospital, a wool store, a school and a religious meeting house. It was acquired by the Duke of Portland for the local Masonic Lodge, St Peter 331 in 1894, who have maintained it until the present day. Barr Castle used to be known as Lockhart’s Tower. One of the Lockharts of Barr is reputed to have been one of the men associated with returning Robert the Bruce's heart to Scotland after it had been lost in a battle abroad by James Douglas who carried it to the Crusades as a dying wish of the famous King. The Scottish Reformers William Wishart and John Knox preached in this place A.D. 1545 and 1556 respectively.

Raibeart MacAoidh

St Sophia's Church - Galston, East Ayrshire

St Sophia's church was constructed 1885-6 and designed by architect Sir Robert Rowand Anderson. The third Marquess of Bute commissioned Anderson to bring to Galston this echo of the Byzantine Empire. The church is a distinctive building based on Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, which the Marquess had visited and in memory of his mother Lady Sophia Hastings of Loudoun Castle. Built in red brick the church is cruciform in shape with a central round tower topped with a conical roof of red tiles.

Raibeart MacAoidh

Barr Castle - Galston, East Ayrshire

The present tower dates from the 16th century and was the family seat of the Lockhart family until 1670. It passed to the Campbell's of Cessnock and was used as a domicile. It has been used as a barn, a grain store, a town jail, a cholera hospital, a wool store, a school and a religious meeting house. It was acquired in 1894 by the Duke of Portland for the local Masonic Lodge, St Peter 331, who have maintained it until the present day. Barr Castle used to be known as Lockhart’s Tower. One of the Lockharts of Barr is reputed to have been one of the men associated with returning Robert the Bruce's heart to Scotland after it had been lost in a battle abroad by James Douglas who carried it to the Crusades as a dying wish of the famous King. The Scottish Reformers William Wishart and John Knox preached in this place A.D. 1545 and 1556 respectively.

Raibeart MacAoidh