This mixed woodland lies on a broad ridge of flat land near to the
village of Gladsmuir, Haddington, East Lothian. Woodland is thought
to have existed on this site since 1865, when it appeared on the
first Ordnance Survey map, although it has been repeatedly felled
and replanted since then.
Ownership of Butterdean Wood is divided between the local
council and Woodland Trust Scotland. The northern part of the wood,
adjoined by a car park, is maintained by the council and a path
network gives good access to the whole complex. The remainder of
the wood is part conifer and part mixed woodland, where broadleaved
trees predominate with a scattering of veteran species
throughout.
At 42ha (104 acres) Butterdean is one of the larger woods in the
area and forms part of a mosaic of woodland and shelterbelts.
Thinning of conifers has opened up of the site and encouraged the
natural regeneration of broadleaved trees and development of
associated wildlife habitats.
The wood can be enjoyed by visitors on foot, bicycle or
horseback with six entrances providing access. Over 5km of paths,
some of which are surfaced, allow exploration with several linking
to the local footpath network. An information board in the car park
at the main entrance, to the north, gives details of waymarked
trails. The nearest bus stop is at Gladsmuir.