Kay Wood

Wood, Forest in Roxburghshire

Scotland

Kay Wood

Burnt Plantation near Denholm in The Scottish Borders Enclosed in drystane with odd bits left to birch and, as here, heather and moss. The curves on all its sides would have given shelter from a complexity of airts although whether or not that was its purpose is not in my ken. Its occupants this day were Scandinavian timbers - of previous incumbents there was no hint! — Burnt Plantation near Denholm in The Scottish Borders Credit: ian shiell

Kay Wood is a picturesque forest located in Roxburghshire, a historic county in the southern part of Scotland. Covering an area of approximately 200 acres, it is a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. The wood is situated near the small village of Kay, which lends its name to the forest.

Kay Wood boasts a diverse range of tree species, including oak, beech, birch, and Scots pine, creating a rich and vibrant ecosystem. The forest is home to an array of wildlife, such as red squirrels, deer, and various bird species, making it an excellent destination for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

The forest offers a network of well-maintained trails that meander through its lush greenery, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings. These trails cater to different levels of fitness and can be enjoyed by walkers, cyclists, and horse riders.

In addition to its natural attractions, Kay Wood also has a rich history. It is believed to have been an important hunting ground during medieval times, and remnants of ancient settlements and structures can still be found within the forest. Archaeological enthusiasts can discover the traces of the past as they wander through the woods.

Overall, Kay Wood in Roxburghshire is a captivating destination that offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance. Whether one seeks tranquility in nature, adventure on the trails, or a glimpse into the past, this forest provides a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.

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Kay Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.420916/-2.6633368 or Grid Reference NT5814. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Burnt Plantation near Denholm in The Scottish Borders

Enclosed in drystane with odd bits left to birch and, as here, heather and moss. The curves on all its sides would have given shelter from a complexity of airts although whether or not that was its purpose is not in my ken. Its occupants this day were Scandinavian timbers - of previous incumbents there was no hint!

ian shiell

Gate at north-east margin of Burnt Plantation near Denholm in The Scottish Borders

ian shiell

Plantation above Heathfield near Bonchester Bridge

Not rich grassland by any means, but sufficient for modern types. A Blackie would have viewed disdainfully such verdant decadence!

ian shiell

Duck pond on Hallrule Burn near Bonchester Bridge in The Scottish Borders

My instincts lead me to surmise that shooting ducks has lost its popularity here - the shooting stance was a bit dilapidated and there was little sign of access to it through old and new fencelines encircling the thoroughly vegetated pond.

ian shiell

Hallrule Burn near Bonchester Bridge in The Scottish Borders

The burn course awaits the filling of the pond

ian shiell

A 'march' dyke and nascent fork of Hallrule Burn near Denholm in The Scottish Borders

Dykes that form the march between farms have the endearing habit of having no gates - there would have been and still is no point! Add to that a farmer's role in preserving heritage artefacts - as well as saving himself astronomical repair bills by armouring dykes with barbed or electric fencing to prevent damage by stock - and you have a pretty unsurmountable bit of heritage! In this example one farm has used electricity as one can tell by the black insulators whereas the other may have felt the nascent Hallrule Burn was sufficiently deterring.

ian shiell

View north from Burnt Plantation near Denholm in The Scottish Borders

Only two of The Eildon Hills can be seen. The lowest Eildon would not be prominent from this angle in any case even had The Minto Hills not been obscuring it.

ian shiell

New hedging on Heathfield ground near Bonchester Bridge in The Scottish Borders

ian shiell

Pond on south fork of Hallrule Burn near Bonchester Bridge

Some replenishment needed!

ian shiell

Outflow of pond on Heathfield near Bonchester Bridge

A few metres of additional water are required for 'flow' to occur!

ian shiell

Pond near Heathfield by Bonchester Bridge

Heavily vegetated.

ian shiell

The endless cycle of grass on Nether Tofts farm in The Scottish Borders

The beasts that produced the dung were likely fed on silage - processed grass - and the dung will be spread to fertilize further growth of grass for the sheep whose droppings will enhance the effect.

ian shiell