Monaughty Wood

Wood, Forest in Morayshire

Scotland

Monaughty Wood

Woodland near Pluscarden An area very much dominated by forestry, both formal plantations and former farmland returning to birch wood.
Woodland near Pluscarden Credit: Richard Webb

Monaughty Wood, located in Morayshire, Scotland, is a lush and enchanting forest that spans an area of approximately 300 hectares. The wood is situated in a picturesque and rural setting, nestled between the River Findhorn and the foothills of the Cairngorms National Park.

The woodland is predominantly composed of native broadleaf trees such as oak, birch, and rowan, which create a diverse and vibrant ecosystem. The dense canopy of the trees provides a habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including red squirrels, roe deer, and various bird species, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Visitors to Monaughty Wood can enjoy a network of well-maintained walking trails that wind through the forest, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The trails vary in difficulty, catering to both casual strollers and more experienced hikers. Along the way, walkers can discover hidden gems such as secluded ponds and charming clearings, creating a sense of tranquility and serenity within the woodland.

The forest is also home to a variety of historical and cultural features. There are remnants of ancient settlements and stone structures, providing a glimpse into the area's rich history. Additionally, Monaughty Wood is a designated site of special scientific interest due to its unique flora and fauna, further emphasizing its ecological significance.

Overall, Monaughty Wood in Morayshire is a captivating destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and cultural heritage. Whether one seeks a peaceful escape or an educational adventure, this woodland provides an immersive and unforgettable experience.

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Monaughty Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.604648/-3.4572563 or Grid Reference NJ1358. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Woodland near Pluscarden An area very much dominated by forestry, both formal plantations and former farmland returning to birch wood.
Woodland near Pluscarden
An area very much dominated by forestry, both formal plantations and former farmland returning to birch wood.
Rafford to Pluscarden road An area very much dominated by forestry, both formal plantations and former farmland returning to birch wood.
Rafford to Pluscarden road
An area very much dominated by forestry, both formal plantations and former farmland returning to birch wood.
Forest road, Heldon Wood
Forest road, Heldon Wood
Rafford to Pluscarden road
Rafford to Pluscarden road
An unused field Grass left to turn in a field surrounded by woodland. No grazing or harvesting.
An unused field
Grass left to turn in a field surrounded by woodland. No grazing or harvesting.
Rafford to Pluscarden road
Rafford to Pluscarden road
Road, Westerton
Road, Westerton
Field out of production No sign of harvesting for winter fodder nor grazing recently.
Field out of production
No sign of harvesting for winter fodder nor grazing recently.
Barley stubble, Pluscarden
Barley stubble, Pluscarden
Harvest time, Pluscarden
Harvest time, Pluscarden
Forest Track Monaughty Forest is crossed by a dense network of forest roads, some in better condition than others.
Forest Track
Monaughty Forest is crossed by a dense network of forest roads, some in better condition than others.
Eildon Forest Interestingly, though the modern maps all say Heldon Wood, the first edition of the six-inch Ordnance Survey map says Eildon. The track along the summit ridge enjoys fine views to the south where the woods are open, and was bathed in sunshine today.
Eildon Forest
Interestingly, though the modern maps all say Heldon Wood, the first edition of the six-inch Ordnance Survey map says Eildon. The track along the summit ridge enjoys fine views to the south where the woods are open, and was bathed in sunshine today.
Tree Skeletons The bare wood of this clump of dead trees was almost shining in the bright winter sunshine.
Tree Skeletons
The bare wood of this clump of dead trees was almost shining in the bright winter sunshine.
Track on Heldon Hill The track follows the summit of the ridge, where there are many clearings or open woods on the steep slope to the south, so even in mid-December it benefits from any sunshine that's going.
Track on Heldon Hill
The track follows the summit of the ridge, where there are many clearings or open woods on the steep slope to the south, so even in mid-December it benefits from any sunshine that's going.
On Heldon Hill There must be a watercourse here, from the lie of the land and because we've just negotiated a water-filled dip in the track, but the map shows none.
On Heldon Hill
There must be a watercourse here, from the lie of the land and because we've just negotiated a water-filled dip in the track, but the map shows none.
Quarry in Monaughty Wood Presumably worked to supply material for road-building.
Quarry in Monaughty Wood
Presumably worked to supply material for road-building.
Use Your Imagination One of our party thought this looked like a feathery branch lying in the water. It reminds me of fossils such as ancient fish or trilobites. What do you think it looks like? It's bubbles of foam flowing into a still pool from a roadside ditch.
Use Your Imagination
One of our party thought this looked like a feathery branch lying in the water. It reminds me of fossils such as ancient fish or trilobites. What do you think it looks like? It's bubbles of foam flowing into a still pool from a roadside ditch.
Postbox at Pluscarden IV30 53. Royal Mail list this box as 'Abbeylands Pluscarden'.
Postbox at Pluscarden
IV30 53. Royal Mail list this box as 'Abbeylands Pluscarden'.
Show me another place!

Monaughty Wood is located at Grid Ref: NJ1358 (Lat: 57.604648, Lng: -3.4572563)

Unitary Authority: Moray

Police Authority: North East

What 3 Words

///wheat.boarding.handbag. Near Kinloss, Moray

Nearby Locations

Monaughty Wood Heldon Wood

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