List of forests managed by Forestry and Land Scotland facts for kids

Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) (which is Coilltearachd agus Fearann Alba in Scottish Gaelic) started on 1 April 2019. Its main job is to look after and share Scotland's amazing National Forest Estate. This huge area of land, owned by FLS, covers about 6,400 square kilometres. That's roughly 8% of all the land in Scotland! About two-thirds of this land is covered in trees, while the rest is a mix of farms and open spaces like moorland.

As of early 2020, FLS looked after 307 different forests. They also manage 6 special places called forest parks. These parks are great for exploring and enjoying nature.

What is Forestry and Land Scotland?

Forestry and Land Scotland, or FLS, is like the guardian of Scotland's national forests and land. They make sure these natural spaces are healthy and well-managed for everyone. Their work includes planting new trees, looking after existing forests, and making sure people can visit and enjoy these beautiful areas.

Scotland's Amazing Forest Parks

FLS manages six special forest parks across Scotland. These parks are big areas of forest and open land, designed for people to enjoy. They offer lots of activities and ways to connect with nature.

• The Argyll Forest Park was the very first forest park in Britain, created way back in 1935. It sits right where the Scottish Highlands meet the Lowlands.
• Galloway Forest Park is super special because it's the largest forest in all of Britain! In 2009, it became the UK's first Dark Sky Park, which means it's an amazing place to see stars at night because there's very little light pollution.
• Glenmore Forest Park has some really old and special trees called Caledonian woodland. It became a forest park in 1948.
• The Queen Elizabeth Forest Park was named in 1953 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's coronation. It includes several different forests.
• The Tay Forest Park in Perthshire is known for its beautiful trees and has even been visited by royalty like Queen Victoria.
• The Tweed Valley Forest Park in the Scottish Borders is made up of seven forests. Some of these, like Glentress and Innerleithen, are famous for their mountain biking trails.

Fun Things to Do in the Forests

FLS forests are not just for trees; they're also fantastic places for outdoor adventures! You can find lots of different activities to do.

• Walking and Hiking: Many forests have special trails for walking, from easy strolls to challenging hikes. For example, Aldie Burn has lovely woodland trails, and Aoineadh Mòr has trails that tell stories about the past.
• Cycling and Mountain Biking: If you love bikes, you're in luck! Places like Dalbeattie Forest, Forest of Ae, Mabie Forest, and parts of the Tweed Valley Forest Park are home to the famous 7stanes mountain biking trails, which are super popular.
• Wildlife Spotting: Scotland's forests are full of amazing animals. Knapdale Forest is famous for its beavers, which were brought back to Scotland as part of a special project.
• Exploring History: Some forests have interesting historical sites. Achnabreac is near ancient prehistoric sites, and Allean Forest has an old Pictish fort. In Ardmore on the Isle of Mull, you can find the remains of old settlements.
• Relaxing and Picnics: Many forests have peaceful spots to relax, have a picnic, or even barbecue. Aros Park on the Isle of Mull has walking trails, fishing, and a barbecue area.

Protecting Nature and Wildlife

FLS also plays a big part in protecting Scotland's natural environment. They look after special habitats and help wildlife thrive.

• Ancient Woodlands: Some forests, like Achnashellach Forest and Glen Affric, are home to parts of the ancient Caledonian Forest. These are very old and important woodlands.
• Special Habitats: Places like Àrd-Àirigh and Ariundle have unique Atlantic oakwoods. Ariundle has even been a national nature reserve since 1977, meaning it's a very important place for nature.
• Urban Forests: FLS also manages forests in cities, like Auchenshuggle and Garscadden Wood in Glasgow. These urban forests provide green spaces for city dwellers to enjoy.