Cragbank Wood Nature Reserve
Marvel at this native woodland, which clings to and carpets the steep slopes of a gorge in the Scottish Borders.
A rich variety of plants and butterflies thrive in Cragbank Wood, the largest area of ancient ash–elm–hazel woodland left in the Scottish Borders. It forms a narrow band that runs across the steep slopes of Wolfehopelee Hill.
The reserve is protected as Cragbank and Wolfehopelee Site of Special Scientific Interest and as part of Borders Woods Special Area of Conservation.
NatureScot owns and manages the reserve.
Best time to visit
Spring, for the woodland flowers.
Facilities
The reserve has no car park of its own, but you can use the Forestry & Land Scotland car park at Hells Hole, Wauchope Forest.
Reserve paths are unsurfaced, narrow and steep.
Location
Cragbank Wood Nature Reserve
National Grid reference: NT 590 073
If using the Hells Hole car park, the grid reference is NT 590 071.
Using a satnav? TD9 9TB is the nearest postcode.
Getting there
Cragbank Wood lies just south of Hobkirk. From Hawick, follow the A6088 south for about 8 miles. At Hobkirk, take the B6357 towards the Hells Hole car park.
Contact
NatureScot
Anderson’s Chambers
Market Street
Galashiels
TD1 3AF
Telephone: 01738 457070