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There is a very high risk of wildfire in the south and west of Scotland from 24 to 25 April. Please plan ahead and check online before visiting.

Benarty

Where we are

Latest forest information

Open water

  • This destination contains areas of open water which can be hazardous if you are not suitably prepared. Follow our water safety advice and take care.

About

A steep climb rewarded with panoramic views over Fife and the Firth of Forth

A steep, rough climb up through the trees to the heathery ridge of Benarty Hill, offering panoramic views over Fife, Loch Leven, the Lomond Hills and the Firth of Forth. On the way, look out for bluebells, wood anemones, roe deer and buzzards.

There are about 4 miles of trails to explore through the wood, beginning with a set of steep steps leading up from the parking area. If you're feeling particularly energetic, you can extend your route down the northern slope of Benarty Hill to reach the RSPB’s Loch Leven nature reserve beside the loch or head in the other direction to Lochore Meadows Country Park where café and toilets are available.

Facilities and access

Walking
Walking
Viewpoint
Viewpoint

There's a café and toilets at the RSPB Loch Leven nature reserve, and places to eat, drink and shop in Ballingry or Kinross.

Getting here

There is only layby parking at this location.

Benarty Wood lies less than a mile west of Ballingry village in Fife. Follow Hill Road out of the village and keep an eye out for our sign on the north side of the road. 

Please park with consideration and do not block pedestrian and vehicle access points. Do consider public and active transport if available and possible.

Using SatNav?

KY5 8LS is the nearest postcode. This is for Hill Road on the edge of Ballingry.

Public transport

Regular buses serve Ballingry from Lochgelly. Benarty Wood is a 10 minute walk from the village. Plan your journey at Traveline Scotland.

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Get in touch

Have a question or suggestion for improvement?

Phone
0300 067 6600 (option 1)
More contact information

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Parking icon
Parking
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Picnic area
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Distance from 'Benarty': 1.98 miles
A leaf littered forest path through a mixed woodland with long grass

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Cycling
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Distance from 'Benarty': 2.84 miles
 A forest path through a mixed woodland with wild grasses

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Distance from 'Benarty': 6.75 miles