The souvenir plots are located in Loch Wood, which is a beautiful unspoilt woodland situated in the Blackwood Estate outside the village of Blackwood in Lanarkshire. The estate was the head seat of the renowned Weir/Vere family who came to Scotland in the 10th century and had the the Blackwood Estate as their seat until the 1930s.

The woodland has an abundance of wildlife and a number of native broadleaf species as well as some native conifers such as Scots pine. There are some good sporting opportunities, like trekking and wildlife stalking, and the enchanting stream Cander Water flows throughout the land. Some excellent picnicking spots may be found on its lovely banks. There are also Victorian footpaths and a former lily pond inside the woodland. Loch Wood used to be – and still is – a laird’s amenity woodland with a very varied range of species, and the property’s noble history and close links to Scottish aristocracy add to its attractions.

The woodland has previously been at risk of commercial development, both timber felling and housing development, which lead Historic Estates Ltd to the decision to purchase it in 2010.

Loch Wood is no longer in danger and today it is owned and managed by two entities: The larger parts of the woodland are owned and managed by the Blackwood Estate Community Association, reg.no. SC049354, a registered charity in Scotland, formed with the sole purpose of taking care of Loch Wood, maintaining and improving the woodland.  The remaining parts where the souvenir plots lie, are owned by Historic Estates Ltd, reg.no. SC372643. The co-ownership ensures that members of the general public as well as plot owners are given easier access and provide a more thriving and well-kept woodland for all. The Blackwood Estate charity will also work to enhance awareness of the estate’s rich history.

The old loch

All Lairds, Lords and Ladies of Blackwood are provided with a map indicating the exact location of their plot, which enables them to visit their land. The access point to the woodland is marked ‘A’ on the map, and an old path leads to the area where the plots are located. The souvenir plots are located to the north-east, at the outskirts of the old timber felling area, which has now been left to regenerate with native deciduous trees.

Visitors should note that Loch Wood is a typical native woodland with all the qualities commonly associated therewith. Fallen trees are lying on the ground, thus aiding this unique biodiversity, there are scattered badger holes and ruins from the old estate buildings to be found inside the woodland, and brush and thicket may restrict easæy movement. Visitors are recommended to stay on or near the path and wear wellies. In order to reduce strain on this native and vulnerable woodland and habitat we have decided to prohibit tenting on the property. Reference is also made to our T&Cs.