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Forest and woodland trails in a classic Scottish setting

Brodick Castle

Go for a wander at Brodick Castle

There's a rich variety of walks and bike trails in the forests around Brodick Castle, from a picturesque gorge to easy forest roads. The hill path to Goatfell starts from here too, emerging from the shelter of the forest into open, rugged mountain country.

Parking Walking Cycling Mountain access

Life’s essentials

There are toilets and places to eat in Brodick and also at Brodick Castle itself. You'll find the National Trust for Scotland's Brodick trail map very helpful in planning your visit.

Walking trails


Cycling trails


Mountain biking trails


Brodick Castle’s beautiful grounds are very popular with visitors and islanders. The Castle and Gardens are owned by the National Trust for Scotland, while the surrounding forests are looked after by Forestry Commission Scotland. Together they manage over 10 miles (16 km) of trails through gorgeous mixed woodland and forest, with sparkling views over Brodick Bay.

All the trails are accessible from Cladach car park. Use the National Trust for Scotland's Brodick trail map for guidance and begin by following the Goatfell forest trail out of the car park.

Climbing Goatfell? A popular route to Goatfell starts at Cladach car park and follows a forest trail to the lower slopes of this amazing mountain.

Stay safe on the hill. Goatfell isn't as big as Ben Nevis, but it still feels like a proper mountain – especially on the exposed summit. So dress warmly and carry a map, compass, torch, waterproofs and spare food, even if the weather looks fine. Some people may find the last 200 metres steep and tricky.

Contact: Galloway Forest District

Address: Creebridge, Newton Stewart

Postcode: DG8 6AJ

Telephone: 0300 067 6800

Email: galloway@forestry.gsi.gov.uk


How to get here

Travel by ferry from Ardrossan in North Ayrshire to Brodick. Turn right out of the ferry terminal and head north on the A841. Cladach car park is on your right, 2 miles (3.2 km) from the ferry terminal, at grid reference NS 012 376.

Using SatNav?

KA27 8DE is the nearest postcode.

Public transport

There's a bus stop (Gardener's Cottage) on the A841 close to Cladach car park. You'll find information on routes and timetables at Traveline Scotland.

Nearby places

There are other forest trails at South End, King's Cave, North Sannox, Glenrickard and Dyemill.


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