Forest Wood
ENTRY
Free
WHERE
Cumbernauld
What it’s like
Free woodland walks with a pond to poke about in and birds to spot, though the paths get properly muddy come winter.
This is a walk-it-yourself patch of woodland rather than a set-up attraction: footpaths through the trees, a pond that's worth pausing at for a good look, and enough birdlife to make it worth bringing the binoculars if you own any. There's no entry fee, which makes it an easy one to add to a weekend if the weather's playing along.
It suits a family happy to potter rather than one chasing a big day out. Younger kids will get the most out of the pond and whatever's moving in the undergrowth, while older ones can be handed the job of spotting birds. It's not a long list of things to do, but that's rather the point of a place like this.
The site itself flags a couple of things worth knowing before you set off. The old mining works in the area mean you're better off sticking to the marked footpaths rather than letting anyone wander, and between May and August wildfires are a known risk so it pays to be careful. In winter the paths can flood and turn to mud, so wellies over trainers if you're going after rain. Wheelchair users won't find the footpaths manageable, which is worth knowing before you plan a route in.
Plan your visit
Is it free to visit?
Yes, there's no entry charge.
What is there for kids to actually do?
Woodland walks, birdwatching and a pond to explore. It's a wander-and-look sort of place rather than one with set activities.
Are the paths OK for a pushchair or wheelchair?
The footpaths aren't suitable for wheelchair users, and given they can get muddy and flood in winter, a sturdy buggy is a better bet than a lightweight one.
Anything to watch out for?
Stick to the marked footpaths as there are old mining works nearby. Wildfires are also a known risk between May and August, so take care then.
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