Gaelic forest names and what they mean
Did you know that we have Gaelic names for most of our forests?
Gaelic place names are very descriptive and can help us understand what was on the land historically. Names like, ‘boundary stone’ and ‘big stream’ help us understand the landscape better.
We’ve pulled together some of our favourite place names and their meanings for you to enjoy. Next time you visit these forests why not see if you can figure out how they got their names?
King's Cave / Uamh an Rìgh
Placename meaning: King’s cave
A wonderful mixture of forest and coastline, with open views and the famous King's Cave.
Though it’s unlikely that Robert the Bruce sheltered in these caves, this spot is still worth a visit.
Located on Arran, this 2-hour circular trail takes you through the forest to scenic views over Machrie moor, Drumadoon cliffs and west towards Ireland, then down to the rocky shore where you’ll find the caves.
Plan your next trip to King's Cave
Weem / Uaimh
Placename meaning: cave
Look for hidden sculptures in this hillside wood.
Weem wood sits behind Castle Menzies. The Menzies family were keen supporters of King Robert the Bruce and helped shape forests across Perthshire.
Full of secrets, this wood contains hidden rock art telling tales of dragons and enchanters imprisoning fair maidens in the stone. Look out for St. David’s Well, a cave along the forest path where Mr Menzies himself lived as a hermit in the 1400s.
Loch Beinn a’ Mheadhain
Placename meaning: Loch of the middle mountain
A lochside picnic spot with gentle woodland paths.
This secluded car park, in Glen Affric, is set among Scots pine and birch trees, with a lovely view of the loch. It’s a great place for a picnic or just to enjoy the peace and quiet.
There are no waymarked trails, but small paths lead through the trees along the loch side. While you’re there why not visit our other sites in the glen such as River Affric, Dog Falls or Plodda Falls.
Plan your next trip to Loch Beinn a’ Mheadhain
Auchenshuggle / Achadh an t-Seagail
Placename meaning: The field of the rye
Walk a mile through peaceful woodland in the East End.
To the east of Cuningar Loop is Auchenshuggle. While it may be close to a motorway, this predominantly broadleaf woodland feels very tucked away as woodland birds dart between the trees.
The main path through the wood is about a mile long, and is wide, firm, and fairly level – ideal for buggies. Look out for wildlife as well – keep an eye out for deer or a shy fox and listen for woodland birds amongst the ash and birch trees.
Plan your next trip to Auchenshuggle
Clach na Crìche
Placename meaning: boundary stone
An ancient 'wishing stone' and a peaceful picnic site.
You will find the remarkable arched Wishing Stone 200 yards farther along the lochside road.
Clach na Crìche means 'Boundary Stone' in Gaelic – and this remarkable formation did mark the boundary between two ancient parishes – but it’s the stone’s magical reputation that is more intriguing.
The stone was said to have the power to grant wishes. According to local folklore, all you had to do was fill your mouth with water from a nearby spring, then hold it in your mouth as you passed through the hole in Clach na Crìche three times (without using your hands). If you were thinking hard enough about your heart’s desire while you were doing all that, your wish would be granted!
Plan your next trip to Clach na Crìche