Toft Plantation

Wood, Forest in West Lothian

Scotland

Toft Plantation

North-East Holehouse There are four houses on the lands of Holehouse, and this one is marked on the map as North-East Holehouse in spite of the fact that it is south-west of Holehouse! The land in the low ground in front of the house looks very rushy and is probably wet. — North-East Holehouse Credit: Anne Burgess

Toft Plantation, located in West Lothian, Scotland, is a picturesque woodland area covering approximately 250 acres. The plantation is situated just south of the village of East Calder and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers.

The plantation is primarily composed of a mix of broadleaf and coniferous trees, including oak, beech, pine, and spruce, creating a diverse and vibrant forest. These trees provide a rich habitat for a variety of wildlife, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching and animal spotting. Visitors may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of red squirrels, roe deer, or various species of birds such as woodpeckers and owls.

A network of well-maintained trails and paths wind through the plantation, allowing visitors to explore the woodland at their own pace. The paths are suitable for both walkers and cyclists, offering opportunities for leisurely strolls or more challenging hikes. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Toft Plantation is also home to a number of historical features, including remnants of old stone walls that once formed part of the estate's boundaries. These historical elements add a sense of charm and character to the woodland, providing a glimpse into its past.

Whether you are seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, an opportunity to observe wildlife, or a chance to explore the Scottish countryside, Toft Plantation in West Lothian is a must-visit destination. Its stunning woodland, diverse wildlife, and well-maintained trails make it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

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Toft Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.920763/-3.7437368 or Grid Reference NS9171. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

North-East Holehouse

There are four houses on the lands of Holehouse, and this one is marked on the map as North-East Holehouse in spite of the fact that it is south-west of Holehouse! The land in the low ground in front of the house looks very rushy and is probably wet.

Anne Burgess

Field at Holehouse

The field sloping up from the burn to Holehouse looks as if it has yielded a crop of hay or silage.

Anne Burgess

Burn near Holehouse

The burn is unnamed on the map. It drains the Black Loch into the River Avon. This is looking upstream from NS8971 : Bridge south of Holehouse.

Anne Burgess

Burn near Holehouse

The burn is unnamed on the map. It drains the Black Loch into the River Avon. This is looking downstream from NS8971 : Bridge south of Holehouse.

Anne Burgess

Easter Greenhill

Looking uphill to Easter Greenhill from NS8971 : Bridge south of Holehouse.

Anne Burgess

Holehouse

It looks as if the buildings at Holehouse have been restored or renovated for use as housing.

Anne Burgess

South and North-East Holehouse

The modern house nearer the camera is North-East Holehouse, and further away is South Holehouse.

Anne Burgess

Flock above a Field

The fields here seem to be popular with gulls; a flock was just taking a turn in the air as I arrived on the scene.

Anne Burgess

Beasts Beyond the Barley

The crop in the nearer field is barley, separated from the grazing cattle by a stout fence.

Anne Burgess

Pipeline ride

An unplanted strip along the line of a gas plantation.

Richard Webb

Drumduff Wind Farm

One of three turbines that have been supplying energy since 2017.

M J Richardson

Drumduff Windfarm

A wind turbine base and control room, and three turbines of the Burnhead windfarm.

M J Richardson

Croft Plantation

Track through a strip of woodland accessing a field.

Richard Webb

Nether Hillhouse

The farm buildings are at the top of the slope above the Mad Burn.

Anne Burgess

Fields near Over Hillhouse

Pale stubble contrasts with the green and purple of the thistles and fireweed at the roadside.

Anne Burgess

Former Quarry

The First Series six-inch Ordnance Survey map shows a large number of tiny whinstone quarries in this area. Whinstone is the quarrymen's term for hard crystalline rock that geologists now recognise as dolerite. Interestingly, the late Victorian six-inch map doesn't show a large quarry here, so the whole thing must have been opened, worked and abandoned in the course of the 20th century.

Anne Burgess