Balbridie Plantation

Wood, Forest in Kincardineshire

Scotland

Balbridie Plantation

Mill Wheel at Milton This is one of two water wheels that drove mill machinery at Milton of Crathes. It is an undershot wheel. — Mill Wheel at Milton Credit: Anne Burgess

Balbridie Plantation is a picturesque woodland located in Kincardineshire, Scotland. Covering an area of approximately 500 acres, it is one of the largest plantations in the region. The plantation boasts a diverse range of tree species, including Scots pine, oak, birch, and beech, creating a rich and vibrant forest ecosystem.

The woodland is well-known for its breathtaking beauty and tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers. The extensive network of footpaths and trails that crisscross the plantation allows visitors to explore its hidden gems and enjoy its natural wonders. From towering trees to lush undergrowth, Balbridie Plantation offers a stunning display of flora and fauna throughout the year.

The plantation also serves as an important habitat for various wildlife species. It is home to a wide range of bird species, including woodpeckers, owls, and songbirds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Additionally, the woodland provides shelter and a source of food for mammals such as red squirrels, deer, and foxes.

Balbridie Plantation has a rich history dating back centuries. It was originally part of the Balbridie Estate, which was owned by the local aristocracy. Today, remnants of the estate's past can still be seen within the woodland, such as ancient stone walls and ruins. These historical features add an extra layer of charm and intrigue to the plantation's already enchanting landscape.

In summary, Balbridie Plantation is a spectacular woodland in Kincardineshire, Scotland, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature's beauty. With its diverse tree species, abundant wildlife, and historical significance, it is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful and captivating experience in the heart of nature.

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Balbridie Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.047404/-2.4327176 or Grid Reference NO7395. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Mill Wheel at Milton

This is one of two water wheels that drove mill machinery at Milton of Crathes. It is an undershot wheel.

Anne Burgess

Ford on the Coy Burn

Until the bridge was built a little distance upstream, this was the only way across the Coy Burn.

Anne Burgess

Steps at Milton of Crathes

The steps lead up to a field where customers can try out fishing rods and casting techniques.

Anne Burgess

Bridges over the Coy Burn

The lower bridge is an old packhorse bridge built to allow travellers to avoid having to use the ford. The higher one was built to carry the railway line over the burn. I'm standing on a third one, which is a tatty-looking concrete effort, and behind me are the pillars and arches of the modern A93 road bridge. It was, sadly, impossible to photograph the arch of the old bridge without getting the railway bridge, or the tatty concrete bridge, or the ugly blue-and-white portable building on the nearby sports field, in the picture. Maybe another time I will go wading and see if it is possible.

Anne Burgess

Pack Horse Bridge

The slightly humped bridge was built in the 18th century. It retains the old cobbled surface. It is part of a trio of bridges that are Category B Listed because of how they illustrate the history of crossings of the Coy Burn. A fourth bridge is mentioned briefly as being of insufficient merit to list.

Anne Burgess

Stubble Field

This field next to Crathes Castle has already been harvested and the straw baled and removed.

Anne Burgess

Fungus

Recently emerged and still undamaged by whatewver it is that eats holes in the caps of fungi.

Anne Burgess

Coy Burn

A pool formed in a bend of the burn, looking downstream.

Anne Burgess

Crathes Castle

Link

Sandy Gerrard

Nether Mills of Crathes

A distant view of the Nether Mills of Crathes from the Deeside Way to the north-east.

Scott Cormie

River Dee from Durris Bridge

Looking upstream of the River Dee from the A957 Durris Bridge.

Scott Cormie

Crathes village hall

Geocaching is a type of global treasure hunt of people looking for caches, or hidden stashes of objects. Geocaching may also be described as a series of hide-and-seek games, where hiders provide online clues for seekers. Seekers use global positioning system (GPS) devices to find hidden caches

Ralph Greig

Midnight Frolics

Art Trail Hare, there and everywhere! Clan Cancer Support, the north-east’s leading cancer support charity, has partnered with Wild in Art once again to bring an exciting new art trail to the north-east, Moray, Orkney and Shetland. The Big Hop Trail will take the public on another cultural tour of the north-east and the islands from July to September 2023, with hare sculptures designed and created by some of the country’s most talented artists. The trail coincides with Clan’s 40th anniversary, with the 40 hares being the focal point to celebrate the charity’s commitment to supporting people affected by cancer. We chose the hare sculpture as they are an indigenous animal found in all parts of Clan’s geography. Much like our clients during their cancer journey, hares have to navigate rough and difficult terrain in order to survive. They are also adaptable, like our services team who deliver support to anyone affected by cancer. Most importantly, hares have incredible hearing. What better way to depict our lifeline listening and support service and the importance of being heard?

Ralph Greig

Milton Park shops and cafÃ©

Ralph Greig

Ran out of tallent

Deeside Way is a 41-mile walking and cycling pat betwwen Aberdeen and Ballater in Scotland. It also forms route 195 of the National Cycle Network. Large parts of the route make use of a former railway line between Aberdeen and Ballater. As its name suggests, the route follows the route of the River Dee. For more information, see Link

Ralph Greig

Railway Crossing

Ralph Greig

Tilquhillie Recumbent Stone Circle (2)

The huge stone, known as the Druid Stone, built into the consumption dyke is thought to be the recumbent of what used to be a recumbent stone circle. See Link

for more information. NO7294 : Tilquhillie Recumbent Stone Circle (3)

Anne Burgess

Tilquhillie Recumbent Stone Circle (3)

The huge stone, known as the Druid Stone, built into the consumption dyke is thought to be the recumbent of what used to be a recumbent stone circle. See Link

for more information. NO7294 : Tilquhillie Recumbent Stone Circle (1)

Anne Burgess

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Balbridie Plantation is located at Grid Ref: NO7395 (Lat: 57.047404, Lng: -2.4327176)

Unitary Authority: Aberdeenshire

Police Authority: North East