Lael Forest Garden

Rare trees and shrubs in our northernmost arboretum

Journey around a world of trees at Lael Forest Garden. You’ll find species from across the globe including New Zealand, Australia, North and South America, the Far East, Europe and Scandinavia. Native British species thrive here too. Lael Forest Garden is part of the National Tree Collection of Scotland. This project helps to protect and promote this special part of our natural and cultural heritage.

Walking trails

Lael Forest Garden route card (PDF)

Walking

Gorge Trail

A trail notice is in effect

Trail Closure - the bridge on the Gorge Trail has been damaged by a vehicle and is not currently safe. We will repair this as soon as possible.

Follow the red waymarkers to explore the forest surrounding the garden and the spectacular Allt na h-Ighine gorge. Return through the forest garden.

Long steep slopes for 400m with several sets of steps. Mostly firm gravel surface. Uneven earthy section with some exposed tree roots.

1 miles / 1.6 km

Allow ¾ hour

More information

This trail starts and finishes in different car parks, giving you a great excuse to meander back to your starting point through the beautiful Lael Forest Garden. You can start this trail from either car park, but if you only want to see the waterfall you will need to start from the north car park.

Facilities and access

Arboretum

Walking

Parking

Picnic area

You'll find toilets, shops and a range of places to eat in Ullapool, about 10 miles (16 km) away.

Car parking information

There is no charge to park in this car park. Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates.

More about parking

Getting here

Lael Forest Garden is on the A835 between Ullapool and Braemore Junction. The north car park is 10 miles (16km) south of Ullapool opposite the woodturning centre, at grid reference NH 196 810.

There's a second car park ¼ mile (400 metres) further south at grid reference NH 196 806.

Using SatNav?

Nearest postcode: IV23 2RS

Public transport

Buses between Inverness and Ullapool pass the forest. See Traveline Scotland for details.

Get directions