Slewdrum Forest
Slewdrum Forest covers 173 hectares on the eastern edge of Birse parish in Scotland and was purchased by the Birse Community Trust in 2006. It is managed as a native forest with varied habitats and high amenity value, while also producing sustainable timber. The forest is an ancient Crown Common—the last of its kind in Scotland.
Area: 167.3 ha
Region: Near Banchory
Address: Slewdrum Forest, Banchory AB31, UK
Website: www.birsecommunitytrust.org.uk/natural-heritage/slewdrum-forest
🧭 Get directionsBest for
Walking, cycling, and dog walking with scenic views over the River Dee. The main circular trail (5.0 miles) offers moderately challenging routes suitable for ramblers and bike enthusiasts.
Wildlife
Opportunities to spot wildlife along the Slewdrum Forest Circular trail. Management priorities include adequate deer control to encourage natural regeneration.
History
The forest is an ancient Crown Common—the last of its kind in Scotland—until handed over in 1954 by the Commissioners of Crown Lands to the Secretary of State for Scotland for planting by the Forestry Commission. Historically known locally as the Lendrum Commonty and Commonty Fishings.
Reviews
Hill walking club went here today, a pleasant walk with good views higher up of distant snow clad hills.
Deforestation is shocking. Appalling. The ground left behind is being left in a poor state and not made good. No replanting evident. This seems rife throughout Aberdeenshire, changing the landscape and leaving it looked scarred. This used to be such a beautiful area.
Beautiful lovely place