Forest bathing at RSPB Wood of Cree

The RSPB's Wood of Cree is the largest ancient wood in southern Scotland, a few miles north of Newton Stewart on the slopes above the River Cree. As well as old woodland, the reserve takes in wood pasture, wet floodplain woodland, fen, grassland and open moorland. Red squirrels live here, otters use the rivers, and up to eight species of bat have been recorded, including the rare Leisler's bat.

There are two car parks on the minor road from Newton Stewart: Barclye Wood, about three miles out, and Wood of Cree, a mile further on. The nature trails are very steep, rough and uneven in parts, so wear proper footwear and take your time. In spring bluebells cover the woodland floor and the wood is full of birdsong; from May, redstarts, pied flycatchers and wood warblers arrive for the summer. There are no toilets on site, and dogs should be on a short lead from April to mid-August.