Barend Wood

Wood, Forest in Kirkcudbrightshire

Scotland

Barend Wood

Bellymack Fields A large modern [post-2010] house on the B795 just east of Laurieston. — Bellymack Fields Credit: M J Richardson

Barend Wood is a picturesque forest located in the historic county of Kirkcudbrightshire, in the southwest of Scotland. Covering an area of approximately 500 acres, the wood is situated near the village of Barend, just a few miles south of the town of Gatehouse of Fleet.

The woodland is predominantly composed of native broadleaf trees, including oak, birch, and beech, which create a rich and diverse habitat for a variety of wildlife. The forest floor is adorned with a carpet of bluebells during spring, adding to the natural beauty of the area.

Barend Wood offers a range of walking trails for visitors to explore, providing opportunities to immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. The paths meander through the trees, offering glimpses of the nearby Loch Fleet, as well as panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

The woodland is also popular among birdwatchers, as it is home to a wide range of bird species, including woodpeckers, owls, and golden eagles. Visitors may also spot small mammals such as red squirrels and deer.

Barend Wood is managed by the Forestry Commission, who work to maintain the forest's natural beauty and ensure its sustainability for future generations. The area is well-maintained, with clear signage and information boards providing interesting facts about the flora, fauna, and history of the wood.

Overall, Barend Wood offers a peaceful and enchanting escape for nature lovers, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts, providing a unique opportunity to connect with Scotland's natural heritage.

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Barend Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.950557/-4.0306508 or Grid Reference NX7063. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Bellymack Fields

A large modern [post-2010] house on the B795 just east of Laurieston.

M J Richardson

Rough ground near Bellymack Fields

Wet and rushy, with a small drain.

M J Richardson

Rough grazing near Bellymack Cottage

With a line of bushes along a drain.

M J Richardson

Kirk Road, Laurieston

A 'no through road' to Dornell Loch. The nearest church is in NX7266.

M J Richardson

Game Park Plantation

Richard Webb

B795, Bellymack Moss

The wooded hills above Laurieston are in the background after the road crosses farmland and small woods near the outflow of Loch Ken.

Richard Webb

Bellymack Hill entrance

There is a kite feeding station here and it sounded a bit like a sheepdog trial with the kites whistling from the surrounding trees.

Richard Webb

Red kite at feeding station

Taken soon after they opened

David Pashley

Mum and Kid at red kite feeding station

Red kites were once common scavengers around our cities, feeding on scraps and carrion. They were, however, persecuted in the 19C, wrongly thought to take lambs and game. By 1880 only a dozen or so remained in the UK, in valleys in mid-Wales. In 1989 a reintroduction programme was launched and 104 red kites were released in Galloway between 2001 and 2005. They are now well established and have bred since 2003 with increasing success, with 18 young fledging in 2003 to 104 in 2011, and from 4 to 58 nesting pairs over the same period. There are now about 320 in the area. They are encouraged by a feeding station near Laurieston at Bellymack Hill Farm, and large numbers can be seen and heard calling every day as they gather in the trees and wheel about making their whistling calls, waiting for the daily feed at 2pm [road kill and chicken]. For more information see the Galloway Kite Trail and RSPB links – Link

and Link

David Pashley

Abandoned Trailer in Bargatton Plantation

This abandoned trailer was found at the side of a track deep in Bargatton Plantation, between Bargatton Loch and Glentoo Loch. The plantation was used for pheasant shooting, so perhaps the trailer was used for shelter or catering.

Forrest and Jen

Bargatton Plantation

This hillside in Bargatton Plantation has been planted and felled at one time, and some new trees have popped up between the old stumps.

Forrest and Jen

Edge of Bargatton Plantation

Taken from the side of Bargatton Hill towards White Hill, the boundary between bargatton Plantation and a farmer's field is marked by a stone wall and fencing. Neilson's Monument can be seen on top of Barstobrick Hill in the distance.

Forrest and Jen