Countesswells

Wide forest paths with views over Aberdeenshire 

The wide forest trails at Countesswells give gentle views over Aberdeenshire farmland and towards the city of Aberdeen. They can be combined into a longer circular route passing through the whole length of the forest.

These attractive woods were once part of the Countesswells estate.

Walking trails

Countesswells route card (PDF)

Walking

Oak Tree Trail

Enjoy a short walk through an area significantly impacted by storm damage, now undergoing restoration with newly planted native oaks, rowans, and hawthorns lining the path.

Mostly firm gravel surface. Section of uneven earthy path with exposed tree roots and muddy areas. Fairly steep slopes.

1 ¼ miles / 2.1 km

Allow 3/4 hour

Walking

Lime Avenue Trail

Take a short walk along this storm-affected trail, passing newly replanted lime trees. Continue through open spaces that now offer wide views and are being replanted with a mixture of conifers and broadleaves.

Firm gravel surface with some uneven sections. Moderate slopes. Some parts may be muddy after rain.

1 ½ miles / 2.5 km

Allow 1 hour

More information

This is a great trail for getting a quick blast of fresh air and exercise at any time of day. There are viewpoints over farmland and out to Kingshill Wood.

Walking

Gairn Hill Trail

Explore this scenic loop around Gairn Hill Wood home to mature Scots pine with areas of newly planted oak and aspen opening up to stunning views across Aberdeenshire.

Firm gravel surface throughout, with some rocky, rooty and muddy parts. Long moderate slopes with some short steeper ramps.

2 ¾ miles / 4.4 km

Allow 1 ½ hours

Facilities and access

Horse riding

Mountain biking

Walking

Parking (charge)

The nearest public toilets are in Cults or Kingswells.

Car parking information

The charges to park at Countesswells are:

• £2 for up to 1 hour
• £2.50 for up to 3 hours
• £3 for all day
• £12 for minibus or coach all day

Blue Badge holders park free. Please display your Blue Badge clearly.

Payment can be made using coins, card or RingGo.

Annual parking passes are available for this site, visit our parking page for more information.

Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates. Nearby car parks with free parking can be found in our Forest Search.

More about parking

Getting here

The entrance and car park for Countesswells wood is on the west side of an unclassified road, 1 mile south of Kingswells. From the Kingswells roundabout on the A944, follow the turning for Cults. If heading from Cults or Countesswells Road, follow signs for Kingswells.

Using SatNav?

AB15 8QD is the closest postcode.

Get directions