Randy Plantation

Wood, Forest in Roxburghshire

Scotland

Randy Plantation

Cattle in pasture North of Whitrig Bog.
The very top of Smailholm Tower just appears over the top of the hill. — Cattle in pasture Credit: Russel Wills

Randy Plantation is a picturesque woodland located in Roxburghshire, a historic county in the Scottish Borders region of Scotland. Covering an area of approximately 200 acres, this enchanting forest is known for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty.

The plantation is predominantly composed of native tree species, including oak, beech, and birch, which create a stunning canopy of greenery. The forest floor is adorned with a vibrant carpet of wildflowers, ferns, and mosses, adding to the overall charm of the woodland.

Randy Plantation offers visitors a tranquil and peaceful environment, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Numerous well-maintained trails wind through the forest, providing opportunities for leisurely walks and exploration. These paths are suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels, making it an accessible destination for families.

The plantation is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and various bird species. Birdwatchers can spot woodland birds such as thrushes, woodpeckers, and owls, adding to the allure of this natural haven.

With its idyllic setting, Randy Plantation attracts visitors throughout the year. In spring, the forest comes alive with a burst of colors as wildflowers bloom, while autumn offers a breathtaking display of vibrant foliage. The plantation is open to the public, and there are picnic areas and benches scattered throughout, providing visitors with an opportunity to relax and soak in the serenity of the surroundings.

Overall, Randy Plantation is a cherished natural gem in Roxburghshire, offering a serene escape into the beauty of Scotland's woodlands.

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Randy Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.621402/-2.5821803 or Grid Reference NT6336. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Cattle in pasture

North of Whitrig Bog. The very top of Smailholm Tower just appears over the top of the hill.

Russel Wills

Smailholm Tower

From the south west. 'Smailholm Tower is a peel tower at Smailholm, around five miles (8 km) west of Kelso in the Scottish Borders. Its dramatic situation, atop a crag of Lady Hill, commands wide views over the surrounding countryside. In June 2007, it was awarded the maximum "five-star" status as a tourist attraction from VisitScotland, a rating bestowed on only eight other sites in Scotland.' Link

Russel Wills

Smailholm Tower from the west

Difficult of access!

Russel Wills

Wall Brown butterfly (Lasiommata megera)

On the grass below Smailholm Tower.

Russel Wills

Stubble and cylindrical straw bales

Near New Smailholm Farm.

Russel Wills

Stubble and uncut cereal crops

Approaching Glennewton and Smailholm.

Russel Wills

Sandyknowe Farm

The farmhouse and steading of Sandyknowe lie to the east of Smailholm Tower. The site is associated with Sir Walter Scott, who after falling ill as a child, was moved here to the country from Edinburgh. Sandyknowe was farmed by Scott's grandfather, and it was while he stayed at the farm that Scott was told stories of Border history and folklore by his aunt and grandmother. These had a profound impact on the future writer, inspiring him to write the works of historical romance for which he is renowned.

Russel Wills

Cereal piled in the farmyard

At Sandyknowe. Would it be better in a silo?

Russel Wills

The last strip of cereal to be combine harvested

With Miens Neuk in the background. The field now awaits the baler!

Russel Wills

Approaching Smailholm village

From Over Town and Sandyknowe.

Russel Wills

Field margin after harvesting

Straw still to be collected and baled. Smailholm Tower is visible from miles around!

Russel Wills

Winter trees at Smailholm

The trees by the B6397 on the southeast side of Smailholm village were viewed from a field boundary.

Walter Baxter

Smailholm Tower

Viewed against a snow covered Cheviot from the slopes of Brotherstone Hill.

Richard Webb

Minor road near Mellerstain Mill

Steven Brown

Smailholm Tower

Quite a trek to reach!

Kevin Waterhouse

Old milestone & old milepost

In Smailholm on the B5397 opposite the church and next to the bus-stop the two milemarkers are almost hidden by the rose bush and other plants on the verge. A faint KELSO/6 can be made out on the left face of the stone with AUDER/11 on the right. The L is missing probably lost when damage was sustained to the front edge. This is the only stone known to survive on this route. This area of Borders was in Berwickshire prior to the 1970s.

Chris Minto

Old milepost

This milepost on the B6397 just north of but on the opposite side of the road to Girnick has been dug out and painted fairly recently including the band of black near the top of the post.

Chris Minto

Old milepost

This shows the form of the foundry name which is always cast at the top of the post. A few, like this one, have SMITH PATTERSOON/& CO/BLADEN. Most posts have SMITH PATTERSON/FOUNDERS/BLADEN.

Chris Minto

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Randy Plantation is located at Grid Ref: NT6336 (Lat: 55.621402, Lng: -2.5821803)

Unitary Authority: The Scottish Borders

Police Authority: The Lothians and Scottish Borders