Claret Brae

Wood, Forest in Banffshire

Scotland

Claret Brae

Montcoffer House The house was renovated in about 1774 and was the residence of Lord Braco&#039;s factor William Rose. It was extended in 1880, and the house, its gates and garden walls, three game larders and a nearby doocot, are all Category B Listed. See <span class="nowrap"><a title="http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/LB6649," rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/LB6649,">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> <span class="nowrap"><a title="http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/LB6650" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/LB6650">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> and <span class="nowrap"><a title="http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/LB2896" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/LB2896">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> for details. — Montcoffer House Credit: Anne Burgess

Claret Brae is a picturesque woodland area located in Banffshire, a historic county in Scotland. Situated amidst the stunning natural beauty of the region, this forested area is known for its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere.

Covering a vast expanse of land, Claret Brae is home to a diverse range of tree species, including oak, pine, and birch. The forest is characterized by its dense foliage, which provides a haven for various flora and fauna. The ground is carpeted with vibrant wildflowers during the spring and summer months, creating a captivating display of colors.

Walking through Claret Brae, visitors can enjoy the peaceful ambiance and immerse themselves in nature. The forest is crisscrossed by well-maintained trails, offering opportunities for hiking and exploration. These paths wind through the trees, providing glimpses of occasional wildlife such as deer, squirrels, and a variety of bird species.

Claret Brae also boasts a rich historical significance. The forest has witnessed centuries of human activity, with remnants of ancient settlements and archaeological sites scattered throughout the area. These remnants serve as a testament to the region's past and provide valuable insights into its cultural heritage.

Whether it's a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, or a deeper appreciation of history, Claret Brae offers something for everyone. Its natural beauty and tranquility make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking solace in the peaceful embrace of the forest.

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Claret Brae Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.627746/-2.5473319 or Grid Reference NJ6759. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Montcoffer House

The house was renovated in about 1774 and was the residence of Lord Braco's factor William Rose. It was extended in 1880, and the house, its gates and garden walls, three game larders and a nearby doocot, are all Category B Listed. See Link

Link

and Link

for details.

Anne Burgess

Inchdrewer Castle

Up the approach road towards the Remains of the castle

Ralph Greig

Cottages at Montcoffer

The most distant building, with bellcote, is part of steading and is Category C Listed. See Link

for details.

Anne Burgess

Banff, Bridge of Alvah

This is the western parapet of the bridge, with a deep cut benchmark directly above the running water many feet below. The cut mark is about 3 foot above the level of the bridge, however the bridge is many feet above the steam.

Mel Towler

Banff, Bridge of Alvah

A wider angle showing the location of the cut mark on the western parapet of this impressive bridge.

Mel Towler

Montcoffer Cottage

This is the window of the right semi detached cottage at Montcoffer. The stone window frame has 2 benchmarks cut into the sill on the left and right side.

Mel Towler

Montcoffer Cottage

A wider angle showing the 2 semi detached cottages at Montcoffer. The red painted window frame on the far right has 2 cut benchmarks into the sill of the window. These are about 3 foot from ground level.

Mel Towler

Meikle Blackton

Ploughed fields near Meikle Blackton. The farm in the distance is Firfolds, which is in the next square.

Anne Burgess

Hill of Alvah

The hill, though not especially high, is quite isolated so commands a fine view from the summit. The mast is just inside the next square.

Anne Burgess

Blythstane

Not to be confused with Blythstone, the next farm down the road!

Anne Burgess

Mill of Ryland

It's a little odd to find a farm whose name includes 'Mill of' but is not down by the water, but possibly the mill referred to was on the burn which falls into the Burn of Brydock below the farm.

Anne Burgess

Red Hot Pokers

This clump of flowers makes a bright splash at the Mill of Ryland road end. The barn belongs to Blythstone (if you believe the 1:25,000 map) or Bythstone (if you believe the 1:50,000 map).

Anne Burgess

Hill of Itlaw

As summer progresses, cereal crops take over great swathes of country. In this case, it's barley.

Anne Burgess

Monoculture

This single barley field seems to cover all the land on the west side of Govel Hill.

Anne Burgess

Stonieley

Looking up the driveway towards the steading.

Anne Burgess

Stonieley

From this angle it is evident that this is a substantial farm.

Anne Burgess

Manson's Wood

That is what is says on the sign in the foreground, and the year is 2002. Presumably another new wildlife pond. The two bright spots above are the light glinting off the windows at Kemplemire.

Anne Burgess