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Stop, look, listen: you may even see a roe deer as you strike into the heart
of the woods. Follow the burn as it plunges towards the Clyde, and discover
wild berries and mushrooms.
There are approximately 140 acres of woodland
at Finlaystone, including trees which are estimated to be in the region
of at least 300-400 years old.
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This woodland plays host
to a wide range of wildlife including roe deer, fox, squirrel, stoat
and a large colony of bats. We have also had some recent otter sightings.
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The woodland floor has fantastic display
of fungi and flora including species such as primrose, wood sorrel, wood
anemone, wild garlic and dog's mercury, all of which are indicative of ancient
or long established semi-natural woodland. Follow the changing seasons and
seek out snowtrails and snowdrops in winter, bluebells in spring, wildflowers
and pond life during summer, and a variety of colourful berries during autumn.
The mud flats, which are leased to the
RSPB, are designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) on the
basis of their national importance for wintering birds such as redshank,
greenshank, oystercatcher, goldeneye and eider.
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| The Estate also hosts the
second largest heronry in the south west of Scotland with an annual
nesting population of around 25 to 30 pairs. Continuing on an ornithological
note, a survey carried out in 1998 revealed the Estate to host over
50 species of breeding birds. |
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The long-term conservation and management
of the estate is the responsibility of the MacMillan family. The family
aim to provide an unspoilt and welcoming place using the minimum of resources.
The natural slope allows the estate
to use the burn for a hydro electric scheme.
The Estate lies on the boundary between
two local authorities - Renfrewshire and Inverclyde - both of whom have
designated Finlaystone a Site of Interest for Nature Conservation (SINC).
If you
want to feel good or lose weight, Walk it off
If you have a problem? Walk it off. If you want to escape your computer,
Walk into a new place. If you're interested in plants, Walk in the garden.
Our rangers can help develop a regular programme for you aimed at encouraging
a healthier lifestyle.
The estate is perfectly suited for
people who require different levels of fitness. This can be developed
in conjunction with your GP to ensure maximum effectiveness.
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