A vibrant mixed woodland in the heart of Aberdeenshire, not far from Aberdeen or the Cairngorm National Park.
Located Millbank, near Sauchen, Aberdeenshire. ## Region This wood is in the [Northern Scotland](https://tom.woodlands.co.uk/buying-a-wood/northern-scotland) region. ## Agent This wood is managed by Torquil Varty and Rachel Bower. They can be contacted by email torquilandrachel@woodlands.co.uk or phone 01307 467393 07803 903 203 . ## DescriptionTillycairn Wood is a wonderful woodland set within the forest at Millbank, that in turn is connected to the larger 'Scare Wood', currently owned by the Forestry Commission. At about 5 acres it is an ideal size for someone embarking on woodland ownership as a new venture.
Tillycairn is located at the end of one of these tracks and is suitable for all types of vehicle, please park on the layby on the mainroad and cross over and through the double metal gate. Please close the gate .
The wood is comprised of two distinct areas: the lower section, part of Minister's Moss, is a good mix of birch, rowan and alder. Within this area there is further diversity; damp areas and pools collecting water, with a number of different sphagnum mosses creating a rich and varied ecosystem that is the base of the food chain for much wildlife. In the wider world, there are over 380 different types of sphagnum moss. Regrettably, this traditional wetland habitat has shrunk globally with land being mainly drained for agriculture. It is however, an invaluable habitat for many species, as well as being an efficient carbon store, integral to the rise of global warming. Enlargement of some of the pool areas would create ideal conditions for more water plant species such as iris or marsh marigold and their colourful blooms favoured by insects such as dragon flies. A modest burn runs gently through Tillycairn and is an attractive draw to both four and two legged animals alike; perhaps the inspiration for bridge construction?
In contrast, the higher section of woodland is dry and home to some fine mature pines and would be the natural place for siting a woodland shelter and fire and if required, or for a spot of wild camping in the long hot summertime. The ease of access on foot is good with a vibrant understory of bilberry, providing late summer forage for birdlife stocking up reserves for winter.
Given the convenience of easy access from Aberdeen, these woods have attracted a great deal of interest and attention.
### TreesIt is a mainly birch and alder woodland with some fine mature spruce trees occupying the higher ground.There is plenty of scope for small scale harvesting of timber to keep log fires burning or for some creative carpentry.
### WildlifeWildlife is abundant within these woods whether aquatic, mammal or birdlife this woodland provides the perfect habitat for all. It is the smaller species , down to the micro that is the glue that holds the woodland together. It is usually the species that are too small to see that are the true indicators of a healthy woodland.
### FeaturesA small stream trickles gently through the wood and further enhances the diversity of the woodland, drawing in small mammals and birdlife, as well providing convenient water for campfire tea.
### Access, tracks and footpathsAccess to the wood is exceptionally good, with the substantial tracks constructed excellent stone from within the woodland and will be largely maintenance free for many years to come.
### Rights and covenantsAll sporting rights are sold with the woodland.
As is the case for all our woodlands, the purchaser will be asked to enter into a covenant which serves to protect the peace and quiet of the woodland. ### ActivitiesThese woods are the perfect backdrop for woodland activities whether that is educating or providing a playground for youngsters.
### Local area and historyThe surrounding area is steeped in history with the close proximity of Castle Fraser and Cluny Castle, both fine examples of 16th century architecture, though the core of Castle Fraser dates back to the 1450s. Craigievar Castle in nearby Alford, a pink castle supposedly the inspiration for Walt Disney, is another local attraction as well as the Loch of Skene: the loch supports concentrations of wildfowl in autumn and winter in particular greylag geese, goldeneye ducks and pink-footed geese.. From here it is a short hop to the Cairngorm National Park, arguably the heart of Scotland in many ways.
## Location * OS Landranger: OS No. 38 * Grid ref: NS 657 110 * Nearest post code: AB51 7SA * GPS coordinates: 57.1893, -2.56793 ### DirectionsFrom Aberdeen: