Black Plantation

Wood, Forest in Ayrshire

Scotland

Black Plantation

The Long Stone of Convention The Long Stone of Convention, with Middlefield Law in the distance. — The Long Stone of Convention Credit: Rab McMurdo

Black Plantation, located in Ayrshire, Scotland, is a captivating woodland area that spans across several hectares. Situated in close proximity to the town of Ayr, this enchanting forest is renowned for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty.

The plantation is predominantly composed of tall, majestic trees, including oak, beech, and pine, which create a dense canopy overhead. The lush undergrowth is adorned with a myriad of vibrant wildflowers, ferns, and mosses, adding to the area's visual appeal. Several small streams meander through the woodland, providing a serene atmosphere and creating a habitat for various aquatic species.

Black Plantation is a haven for wildlife, attracting a diverse range of animals, birds, and insects. Visitors may be lucky enough to spot red squirrels darting between the trees or catch a glimpse of roe deer gracefully grazing in the open clearings. The forest is also home to a plethora of bird species, including woodpeckers, owls, and various songbirds, filling the air with their melodious tunes.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the plantation offers numerous walking trails that wind through the forest, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings. These paths are well-maintained and suitable for both leisurely strolls and more challenging hikes. The area is also equipped with picnic spots and benches, providing opportunities for visitors to relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

Black Plantation, Ayrshire, is a captivating woodland retreat that offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. With its diverse flora and fauna, scenic trails, and serene atmosphere, it is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking solace in the embrace of nature.

Show me another place!

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

Black Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.516053/-4.1024025 or Grid Reference NS6726. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The Long Stone of Convention

The Long Stone of Convention, with Middlefield Law in the distance.

Rab McMurdo

The River Ayr at Muirkirk from the air

Muirkirk just makes an appearance at the bottom of the photo. The route of the GSWR Muirkirk Branch railway line can be seen running diagonally up from the lower left corner.

Thomas Nugent

Wellwood Rows

The Wellwood Rows stood on the high ground, where the trees are now, on the left bank of the Water Ayr.

Rab McMurdo

Wellwood House

Wellwood House once stood where the piles of debris lie, on the far side of the ruined bridge over the Water Ayr.

Rab McMurdo

Ruins at Knowehead

The water in this old byne at Knowehead was frozen solid. Knowehead was once a shepherd's place, then a sheepfold.

Rab McMurdo

Track leading down to Garpel Bridge, southwest of Muirkirk

This is part of the River Ayr Way. By using buses from Catrine to Cumnock then another from Cumnock to Muirkirk, this section of the path can be walked in a day.

Colin Park

Covenanters' grave close to Upper Wellwood, west of Muirkirk

This grave can be viewed from the River Ayr Way. There is an information board where the picture was taken from.

Colin Park

River Ayr Way below Beacon Hill close to Wellwood Bridge

The River Ayr Way has a good surface such as this over much of its length and provides many miles of good firm walking.

Colin Park

A70 westbound at Smallburn

Colin Pyle

A70 north of Beacon Hill

Colin Pyle

A70 westbound at Wellwood

Colin Pyle

Powharnal Revisited

We wondered what would happen to the open cast sites when Scottish Coal collapsed. This part of the Powharnal site near Muirkirk has become a huge and extremely deep loch, visible from the road. NS6525 : Powharnal Open Cast Mine shows the site in full-scale operation.

Mary and Angus Hogg