Dunnottar Woods

Forestry Commission began in 1919 following timber shortages and import problems during WW1. The government wanted to ensure that if war ever broke out again, the nation would have its own source of timber. They began to acquire as much land as possible to plant trees. 

This land is known as the National Forest Estate. It belongs to the people of Britain but is managed by Forestry Commission.

Sustainable timber harvest is still an important aspect of their work. However, the forests also offer a good environment for promoting health and wellbeing. Forestry Commission Scotland provides recreation facilities such as the footpaths and trails through Dunnottar Woods. Rangers lead events and activities to help people of all ages and abilities to use these to better understand and enjoy the forest.

Forestry Commission Scotland is also active in conservation and aims to ensure the forests are beneficial for wildlife, as well as sheltering some unusual archaeological features such as those in Dunnottar Woods. 

Forestry Commission Scotland has other forests in the north east. Have you visited them? Go to