Blackcraig Wood

Blackcraig Wood is a rich woodland of oak, birch, ash and wych elm clinging to a sea cliff. Buzzards soar overhead and the oak canopy supports the elusive purple hairstreak butterfly. In spring, bluebells, ivy and great wood-rush carpet the ground beneath hazel, rowan, holly and hawthorn.

Why visit?

Highlights include:

  • Woodland birds
  • Views over the Solway
  • Lead mining heritage

Best time to visit?

  • Apr to Jul for wildflowers
  • Summer for butterflies
  • Autumn for the colours

Visit for:

  • birdwatching
  • woodlands
  • wildflowers
  • coasts
  • geology
  • scenery
  • archaeology

Other information

A path runs along the top of the cliff and old lead mining workings can still be seen.

Facilities

Hover for more information

VISITING THE RESERVE

How to get there

Directions

From Newton Stewart, take the A75 east. Blackcraig Wood borders the road after 1.5 miles. Park at the Forestry Commission centre at Kirroughtree.

Get directions

Getting onto the reserve

A linear path through the reserve can be accessed via the Forestry Commission arboretum at Kirroughtree.

Access restrictions

A narrow, unsurfaced path runs through the reserve with steep sections and steps. Beware of old lead mine workings, steep slopes and cliffs.

Nearest town
Newton Stewart (2 mi / 3.2 km)
OS grid ref
NX437648
Landranger map
83

FURTHER READING

About Blackcraig Wood

Out & about

Nearby reserves
Carsegowan Moss
Carstramon Wood

Links & downloads

Reserve map

iSpot

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