Airds Wood

Wood, Forest in Kirkcudbrightshire

Scotland

Airds Wood

Access bridge to fields An farm access bridge over a disused railway track near Parton. — Access bridge to fields Credit: Colin Kinnear

Airds Wood is a picturesque forest located in the region of Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland. Covering an area of approximately 200 hectares, the wood is a significant natural attraction in the area. The forest is nestled within the rolling hills and gentle valleys, providing a tranquil and idyllic setting for visitors to explore.

Airds Wood is predominantly made up of native tree species such as oak, birch, and Scots pine, creating a diverse and vibrant ecosystem. The trees offer a habitat for numerous bird species, including woodpeckers and owls, as well as small mammals like red squirrels and roe deer. The forest floor is adorned with a rich carpet of wildflowers and mosses, adding to the beauty and biodiversity of the wood.

Visitors to Airds Wood can enjoy a variety of recreational activities. There are well-maintained walking trails that meander through the forest, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature and appreciate the serene surroundings. The trails cater to all levels of fitness, from leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes. Along the way, there are several viewpoints that offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside.

The forest is also a popular spot for picnics and family outings, with designated areas equipped with picnic tables and benches. In addition, there is a small visitor center that provides information about the wood's history, flora, and fauna.

Airds Wood is a haven of tranquility and natural beauty, attracting nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful escape. Its accessibility, diverse wildlife, and well-maintained trails make it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.

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Airds Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.01498/-4.0687559 or Grid Reference NX6770. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Access bridge to fields

An farm access bridge over a disused railway track near Parton.

Colin Kinnear

Old railway

Some of this building at Mossdale by the disused railway line was New Galloway Station. New Galloway is 5 miles to the north but because of the terrain the railway line could not always go through larger settlements. There are 4 milestones along the road from New Galloway giving the distance to the station.

Chris Minto

Old railway

This bridge carries the A762 over the disused railway line at Mossdale. The railway between Castle Douglas and Port Patrick was built in 1863.

Chris Minto

Old railway

Travelling generally westwards but following the contours, the next big town reached along this dismantled Castle Douglas to Port Patrick railway would be Newton Stewart.

Chris Minto

Parton

The village of Parton. The building with the clock tower is a self catering cottage. In the garden of one of the cottages further on is a communal 8 seater privy (now unused)

Ian Lavender

Loch Ken Viaduct

Former railway viaduct, now (sadly) in private hands and closed to walkers and cyclists.

Simon Brooke

A group of kayakers paddling north on the Loch

Iain Robinson

Field with deer, Mossdale

These deer were seen in a field at Mossdale, down a tiny lane to the right of the Post Office.

Ann Cook

Gate entrance and gatehouse

This is the main entrance to the Hensol estate.

Ann Cook

Parton Privy

Communal toilet block, for the row of eight cottages at Parton. It is no longer used today for its original purpose. One of the cubicals has been preserved.

Callum Black