Kirkhill Forest, Kincardineshire Travel Guide

4.6 (395)

Explore Kirkhill Forest’s scenic trails, historic tower, and mountain bike park just minutes from Aberdeen’s city edge.

Kirkhill Forest, located near Kinellar just northwest of Aberdeen, is a popular hiking and outdoor recreation area featuring marked and unmarked trails, a mountain bike fun park, and the historic Tappie Tower lookout. The forest offers panoramic views across Aberdeenshire, making it a favored destination for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers seeking a tranquil yet accessible woodland experience.

A brief summary to Kirkhill Forest

Aberdeen, Kinellar, AB21 0TU, GB
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Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kirkhill Forest.

Wear sturdy hiking boots to navigate gravel and uneven forest trails comfortably.
Visit early in the morning to enjoy tranquility and avoid crowds.
Bring a camera to capture panoramic views from Tappie Tower.
Check weather conditions before your visit, as trails can be wet and slippery after rain.
Horse riders can find ample parking and wide trails suitable for riding.

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Explore Kirkhill Forest on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Kirkhill Forest, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

Driving from Aberdeen city center, take the A96 northwest towards Dyce. After approximately 4 miles on the A90 towards Peterhead, exit at Kinellar (B977) and follow signs for Kirkhill Forest. Parking is available at the forest entrance free of charge. Travel time is about 15–25 minutes depending on traffic.
Bus and Walk

Take the Stagecoach service 9 bus from Aberdeen city center to Kinellar, with a journey time of around 30 minutes. From the Kinellar bus stop, it is a 15-minute walk south along the B977 to the forest entrance. Bus services may be limited in the evenings, so check schedules in advance.
Walking

If staying in Kinellar village, Kirkhill Forest is accessible on foot via a pleasant 1-mile walk south along the B977. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for casual walkers.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Seating Areas
Trash Bins
Information Boards
Parking

Discover more about Kirkhill Forest

A Natural Haven on Aberdeen’s Outskirts

Nestled on the north side of the A96 between the villages of Dyce and Blackburn, Kirkhill Forest is a working forest that serves as a green lung for the Aberdeen region. Its expansive woodland is dominated by spruce and larch trees, interspersed with beech, rowan, and heather, creating a rich tapestry of forest habitats. The forest’s elevation of approximately 158 meters above sea level provides a varied terrain that is both inviting and invigorating for visitors.

Trails and Outdoor Activities for All Levels

Kirkhill Forest boasts a network of well-maintained paths suitable for walking, jogging, and horse riding. Visitors can explore marked circular walks or venture onto unmarked trails for a more adventurous experience. A permanent orienteering course adds an element of challenge, while the mountain bike fun park near the car park offers cyclists a place to hone technical skills before tackling more demanding routes like the nearby Moray Monster Trails.

The Historic Tappie Tower and Panoramic Views

One of the forest’s standout features is the 19th-century folly known as Tappie Tower. A steep but rewarding climb leads to this vantage point, where visitors are treated to sweeping views stretching from the North Sea to the hills of Bennachie. The tower’s strategic position atop Tyrebagger Hill makes it a highlight for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Wildlife and Seasonal Changes

Throughout the year, Kirkhill Forest showcases changing colors and wildlife activity. The autumn months bring stunning displays of golden larch and fiery beech leaves, while spring and summer offer lush greenery and opportunities to spot local fauna. The forest’s diverse ecosystem supports birdlife and small mammals, enriching the sensory experience of a visit.

Facilities and Accessibility

The forest is accessible year-round with ample parking available at the main entrance. Trails are primarily gravel surfaced, with some uneven and rocky sections, including one long steep slope, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Horse riders benefit from wide trails and dedicated parking for horse boxes. While the forest is open 24 hours, daylight hours are best for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.

Community and Conservation

Managed as a working forest, Kirkhill balances timber production with recreation and conservation. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment by staying on paths and using designated parking areas. The forest’s proximity to Aberdeen makes it a valued outdoor resource for local residents and visitors seeking a peaceful nature escape close to the city.