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Achneim Wood

Wood, Forest in Nairnshire

Scotland

Achneim Wood

Unclassified road at Rereach
Unclassified road at Rereach Credit: Douglas Nelson

Achneim Wood is a picturesque forest located in Nairnshire, Scotland. Covering an area of approximately 100 hectares, this enchanting woodland is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Situated near the small village of Achneim, the wood is easily accessible and attracts visitors from near and far.

The woodland is characterized by a diverse range of tree species, including oak, birch, and pine, creating a rich and vibrant ecosystem. The dense canopy provides ample shade, making it an ideal place for a peaceful walk on a sunny day. The forest floor is adorned with a variety of wildflowers and mosses, adding to the beauty and tranquility of the surroundings.

A network of well-maintained trails winds its way through the wood, allowing visitors to explore its hidden gems. These paths cater to all levels of fitness, making it suitable for families with children and older individuals. Along the way, there are several picnic spots and benches, providing the perfect opportunity to rest and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Achneim Wood is also home to a diverse range of wildlife. Birdwatchers will be delighted to spot various species of birds, including the elusive capercaillie and the red kite. Squirrels, deer, and rabbits are frequently seen, adding a touch of charm to the woodland experience.

In conclusion, Achneim Wood in Nairnshire is a captivating forest that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its breathtaking scenery, well-maintained trails, and abundant wildlife, it is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape.

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Achneim Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.504043/-3.8933322 or Grid Reference NH8647. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Unclassified road at Rereach
Unclassified road at Rereach
Glengeoullie Bridge The bridge spans the Riereach Burn
Glengeoullie Bridge
The bridge spans the Riereach Burn
Old Military road near Rereach
Old Military road near Rereach
Track in Cawdor Wood It is always hard to be definite about these things when named woods merge into one another, but in area, Cawdor Wood - named after the village and/or castle at its Northern end - covers about two and a half grid-squares and parts of it appear in seven. Some of the wood is a protected area, and some of it is not. The trees on the left side of the track are unprotected, whereas those on the right are. Confusingly, the protected part of this 'ancient' mixed wood is also just named Cawdor Wood by the relevant official organisations. It is officially designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), one of 200-odd in Scotland. In the hierarchy of these things, this really means that it is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) with greater protection. The big oak trees further North, along with the rare lichens that grow on some of their trunks, are the main reasons for this. The thing I remember the most about this wood, though, is the unbelievable amount of slugs that were very slowly wriggling their way along the many tracks and paths. The SAC is, very roughly, in the shape of a letter 'q', the land on the right of the track here being part of the tail of the letter, which straddles Riereach Burn. I put 'ancient' within quotation marks above because, although the wood is definitely old, nobody really seems to know exactly how old, tree felling and replanting having taken place throughout the years. There is actually a mention of cows grazing amongst the trees as recently as the 1950s in a report somewhere online.
Track in Cawdor Wood
It is always hard to be definite about these things when named woods merge into one another, but in area, Cawdor Wood - named after the village and/or castle at its Northern end - covers about two and a half grid-squares and parts of it appear in seven. Some of the wood is a protected area, and some of it is not. The trees on the left side of the track are unprotected, whereas those on the right are. Confusingly, the protected part of this 'ancient' mixed wood is also just named Cawdor Wood by the relevant official organisations. It is officially designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), one of 200-odd in Scotland. In the hierarchy of these things, this really means that it is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) with greater protection. The big oak trees further North, along with the rare lichens that grow on some of their trunks, are the main reasons for this. The thing I remember the most about this wood, though, is the unbelievable amount of slugs that were very slowly wriggling their way along the many tracks and paths. The SAC is, very roughly, in the shape of a letter 'q', the land on the right of the track here being part of the tail of the letter, which straddles Riereach Burn. I put 'ancient' within quotation marks above because, although the wood is definitely old, nobody really seems to know exactly how old, tree felling and replanting having taken place throughout the years. There is actually a mention of cows grazing amongst the trees as recently as the 1950s in a report somewhere online.
Forest track in Achneim Wood
Forest track in Achneim Wood
Minor road towards Piperhill
Minor road towards Piperhill
Cottage at Newlands of Inchnacaorach Cottage at Newlands of Inchnacaorach with Moray Firth behind. Picture taken from the start of the track into Cawdor Wood.
Cottage at Newlands of Inchnacaorach
Cottage at Newlands of Inchnacaorach with Moray Firth behind. Picture taken from the start of the track into Cawdor Wood.
Glengeoullie Cottage The ancillary buildings, kennels etc., suggest this is a former gamekeeper's cottage connected with Cawdor Castle estate.
Glengeoullie Cottage
The ancillary buildings, kennels etc., suggest this is a former gamekeeper's cottage connected with Cawdor Castle estate.
Wall end This wall end and old cast iron post dates back to the original enclosure of these fields, c.1850.
Wall end
This wall end and old cast iron post dates back to the original enclosure of these fields, c.1850.
Derelict building This building appears to have been a former dwelling.
Derelict building
This building appears to have been a former dwelling.
Minor road to Tomcluich
Minor road to Tomcluich
House at Ordbreck
House at Ordbreck
The Glengoullie Burn Viewed from the bridge that General Wade and his troops trooped over a few centuries ago.....
The Glengoullie Burn
Viewed from the bridge that General Wade and his troops trooped over a few centuries ago.....
Ordnance Survey Flush Bracket 11945 This can be found on one of the farm buildings at Lyne of Urchany. For more detail see : <span class="nowrap"><a title="http://www.bench-marks.org.uk/bm22667" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="http://www.bench-marks.org.uk/bm22667">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>
Ordnance Survey Flush Bracket 11945
This can be found on one of the farm buildings at Lyne of Urchany. For more detail see : LinkExternal link
Minor road through Cawdor Wood
Minor road through Cawdor Wood
Farmland near Achneim
Farmland near Achneim
Dappled shade through Achneim Wood
Dappled shade through Achneim Wood
Field ready for harvest
Field ready for harvest
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Achneim Wood is located at Grid Ref: NH8647 (Lat: 57.504043, Lng: -3.8933322)

Unitary Authority: Highland

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///exhale.overgrown.snapping. Near Nairn, Highland

Nearby Locations

Achneim Wood

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