Birsness Plantation

Wood, Forest in Roxburghshire

Scotland

Birsness Plantation

Old milestone This milestone, about ½ mile from the end of tarmac at Cocklawfoot used to stand much higher. In 2019 it was reported lying fully exposed on the banking on the opposite side of the road. Fortunately it has been set back on its correct side, the east, although well sunken. This stone has H/11½ on its left face with the mileage under the soil level. KELSO, sloping upwards, with 15, not visible, is on the right. It was hoped that there might be more milestones on the track, Clennell Street, over to Alwinton and Harbottle but none were found on the 2½ mile walk up to the border with England. — Old milestone Credit: Chris Minto

Birsness Plantation is a picturesque woodland located in Roxburghshire, Scotland. Spanning over a vast area, this forest is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse range of flora and fauna.

The plantation is predominantly composed of native tree species, including oak, birch, and Scots pine, creating a rich and varied habitat for wildlife. The dense canopy provides shelter for a wide array of bird species, such as woodpeckers, owls, and finches, making it a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.

The forest floor is adorned with a carpet of vibrant wildflowers during the spring and summer months, adding a burst of color to the landscape. Walking along the well-maintained trails that wind through the plantation, visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and discover the hidden gems of this woodland.

Birsness Plantation also holds historical significance, as it was once part of a larger estate owned by a local noble family. Remnants of old stone walls and ruins can still be found scattered throughout the forest, offering glimpses into the past.

The plantation is open to the public throughout the year, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers. Whether one wishes to immerse themselves in the calming ambiance, observe the local wildlife, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll, Birsness Plantation offers a truly enchanting experience in the heart of Roxburghshire.

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Birsness Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.462762/-2.2399616 or Grid Reference NT8418. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Old milestone

This milestone, about ½ mile from the end of tarmac at Cocklawfoot used to stand much higher. In 2019 it was reported lying fully exposed on the banking on the opposite side of the road. Fortunately it has been set back on its correct side, the east, although well sunken. This stone has H/11½ on its left face with the mileage under the soil level. KELSO, sloping upwards, with 15, not visible, is on the right. It was hoped that there might be more milestones on the track, Clennell Street, over to Alwinton and Harbottle but none were found on the 2½ mile walk up to the border with England.

Chris Minto

Old milestone

A view looking northwards up the Bowmont Water valley with the Kelso 15 milestone on the verge.

Chris Minto

Road to Sourhope

Richard Webb

Park Law

A spur above the Bowmont Water with a hill fort at the summit.

Richard Webb

Road to Cocklawfoot

Richard Webb

Cattle, Sourhope

Richard Webb

Park Law hill fort

View across Sourhope Burn with the slopes of The Cheviot in the background.

Richard Webb

Road from Sourhope

The way out, down the Bowmont Water.

Richard Webb

Plantation, Bught Stack

Above the Bowmont Water.

Richard Webb

Bowmont Water Valley at Swindon

Alan Reid

Swindon Haugh and the forested slopes of Swindon Hill

In the upper Bowmont valley.

Oliver Dixon

Gateway out of forest near Cocklawfoot, Kelso

Snowfields on western aspects courtesy of 'The Beast from the East'- a week or so of bitter easterlies out of Siberia so dubbed by the media. A reversal of the jet stream consequent to sudden warming at stratospheric level (at 30km there was a 50c temperature rise) saw Siberian air push across the North Atlantic as far as Greenland.

ian shiell