Forest bathing at Woodhall Dean

Woodhall Dean is a Scottish Wildlife Trust reserve of about 62 hectares, a wooded gorge in the hills inland from Dunbar, not far from Pressmennan Wood. Its best-known feature is the line of old oaks along the cliff tops, and from the head of the gorge there are long views over the surrounding country. It is quieter and wilder than the coastal woods.

In spring the floor of the dean fills with bluebells and primroses, and the woodland holds birds all year, including sparrowhawks, buzzards, tawny owls and great spotted woodpeckers. There is no need to cover much ground here: walk slowly into the gorge and stop where it opens out under the oaks. Facilities are minimal and you should expect uneven, unsurfaced ground with slopes, so wear proper boots. It pairs well with a visit to Pressmennan Wood on the same day.