Pressmennan Wood - Image 1
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Pressmennan Wood

4.6
·68 reviews·, United Kingdom

A magical woodland escape in East Lothian with a serene lake, enchanting fairy houses, and peaceful walking trails.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Baby wildlife and blooming nature

CrowdLow
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Pressmennan Wood - Image 1

Pressmennan Wood

Best Time

Spring mornings

Baby wildlife and blooming nature

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magical woodland escape in East Lothian with a serene lake, enchanting fairy houses, and peaceful walking trails.

4.6
(68 reviews)

"The most magical place, where you can lose yourself and find yourself among the trees."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Pothole Preparedness

Drive slowly on the access road; it's rough! Limited parking means early arrival is key.

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Muddy paths, especially by the lake, require waterproof boots.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Enchanted Woodland Trails

Enchanted Woodland Trails

Throughout the woods

Wander through magical woods with hidden fairy houses and carved 'Glingbobs' and 'Tooflits'.

Tranquil Lake Views

Tranquil Lake Views

Pressmennan Lake

Enjoy peaceful moments by the lake, watching swans glide and soaking in the serene atmosphere.

Wildlife Spotting

Wildlife Spotting

Woodland and lakeside paths

Keep an eye out for deer and various mini-beasts, making it an exciting walk for all ages.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Potholes

The access road to Pressmennan Wood can be rough with potholes. A 4x4 is ideal, but slow driving can manage with a regular car. Parking is limited, so arrive early, especially on weekends.

Footwear and Weather

Expect muddy paths, particularly on the lakeside walk. Sturdy, waterproof boots are a must, especially after rain. The woodland offers shelter, making it a good option in various weather conditions.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Baby wildlife and blooming nature
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Vibrant fall colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful solitude
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Welcome to North Berwick, Scotland! #scottish #northberwick #Scotland #sun #Summer #holiday #bluesky #edinburgh #travel #travelling #loveyou #likе #sea #theopen #transport
@thenomadscotsman
14.9K likes • 26.7K views

🚗 Pothole Preparedness

Drive slowly on the access road; it's rough! Limited parking means early arrival is key. Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Muddy paths, especially by the lake, require waterproof boots. Reddit

The cutest spots to relax In Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 #Scotland #travel @ishgaskincare
@cheapeofficial
9.7K likes • 63.1K views
Pressmennan Wood in Stenton, East Lothian is truly the most magical place ✨ You can lose yourself, and then find yourself among these trees. And the longer you spend here, the more there is to discover... from the swans that glide on the lake, the fairy houses, the hidden bike trails, the bluebells, toadstools, the secret entrance to the ancient Herring Road, rope swings, woodland dens.... Oh, it'...
six_in_a_wee_red_van
16 likes • 643 views

🧚‍♀️ Fairy House Hunt

Look for the charming 'Glingbobs' and 'Tooflits' hidden in the trees – fun for kids! InstagramReddit

🦢 Lakeside Serenity

Enjoy the peaceful lake views and watch the swans glide by. Instagram

📍 Pressmennan Wood. East Lothian. A lovely short walk amongst the woods around a lake, this was perfect for a post lunch walk on my recent trip to East Lothian. AD | #VisitScotland #scotland #visitscotland #goeastlothian #Eastlothian #LoveEastLothian #hiking #hikinguk #lake #countrywalks #gooutside #takemehere #adventureawaits #passionpassport #roamtheworld #travelmore #ecosse #escocia #scozia...
discovering_scotland
79 likes • 2.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Pothole Preparedness

Drive slowly on the access road; it's rough! Limited parking means early arrival is key. Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Muddy paths, especially by the lake, require waterproof boots. Reddit

🧚‍♀️ Fairy House Hunt

Look for the charming 'Glingbobs' and 'Tooflits' hidden in the trees – fun for kids! InstagramReddit

🦢 Lakeside Serenity

Enjoy the peaceful lake views and watch the swans glide by. Instagram

🚫 No Bins Available

Pack out everything you pack in to keep the woods pristine. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(68 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Pressmennan Wood for its magical woodland atmosphere, tranquil lake, and the charming fairy houses that delight all ages. It's a peaceful escape, though the limited parking and rough access road are noted drawbacks. The natural beauty and wildlife sightings make it a worthwhile visit for those seeking a quiet, enchanting walk.

"Visited the woods a few years ago and enjoyed it enough I decided to revisit.

Unfortunately the dirt track leading from the single track road towards the car park is still pretty badly full of potholes - which is fine if you have a 4x4, not so great if you don't but if you go slowly it's not so bad. Limited parking - would say enough spaces for about 10 cars max (so long as everyone parks considerately). No bins available, but despite this I didn't see any litter lying around except for the occasional dog mess.

Decided to walk up towards the picnic area/viewpoint expecting to have a nice view at the top - maybe on a brighter day you can see further afield, but all I saw was the tops of the trees! There is one bench, but no picnic/table benches so if you're planning a picnic there bear this in mind.

The walk from this point through the trees is really nice and I was lucky enough to spot a deer. There are steps down at the furthest end, but they're not steep so should be fine for most walkers. Walked back to the car park via the riverside walk, which is really lovely and there are a couple of benches along the way to sit and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Would recommend it as a great place to go for a walk, especially with a dog, but it was very muddy in places so would recommend suitable footwear. Easy enough to find following satnav instructions, but just be aware of the potholes!"

Stacey Dougal

"Great walk. You'll need sturdy boots if you're taking the lakeside walk"

Phil Hope

"Awesome Place! popped in for a country side walk with little one in Spring. Junior loved it. Make sure you know how to get there before you leave home though, its one of those places that if you know where you are going its easy to find otherwise it can be difficult. The paths are easy to walk for the able bodied, the views are beautiful. The references to the fairies periodically are amusing for little ones and older ones alike. Took about an hour to walk round the short walk with a 3yr old. Lots of mini beasts to spot, wild life to listen to and stumps and rocks and mounds of earth to jump on and over and go around. Will revisit."

Kris Barl0w

What People Like

Magical woodland atmosphere
Charming fairy houses
Peaceful lake views

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Rough access road
Muddy paths

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pressmennan Wood is located in East Lothian, Scotland. While satnav can guide you, be aware that the access road has significant potholes, so drive slowly. Parking is very limited, with space for about 10 cars, so arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends. Reddit

It can be tricky if you don't know the way. Following satnav is helpful, but be prepared for the rough access track. Knowing your route beforehand is advised. Reddit

Parking is extremely limited, with space for only around 10 cars. It can be challenging to find a spot, particularly during peak times like weekends. InstagramReddit

Public transport options are limited for direct access to Pressmennan Wood. It's best reached by car. The nearest towns like North Berwick are accessible by bus from Edinburgh, but you would likely need a taxi or a longer walk from there. TikTok

The dirt track leading to the car park is known for its potholes. While manageable at a slow pace for most cars, a 4x4 is ideal. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Pressmennan Wood is a natural woodland area and does not require tickets for entry. It's free to explore. Instagram

Pressmennan Wood is open year-round during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times. Instagram

There is no admission fee to visit Pressmennan Wood. It's a publicly accessible natural space. Instagram

While there are no official closing times, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the surroundings. Instagram

The main considerations are the limited parking and the rough access road. It's a natural environment, so visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife and leave no trace. Reddit

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

Pressmennan Wood offers various paths, including a lovely riverside walk and woodland trails. Some paths have steps, but they are not steep. The lakeside walk is particularly scenic but can be muddy. Reddit

Yes, children often love Pressmennan Wood, especially the fairy houses and 'Glingbobs' hidden in the trees. The terrain is generally easy to navigate for little ones, with stumps and rocks to jump over. Reddit

Visitors have reported spotting deer and various mini-beasts. The lake is also home to swans, adding to the natural beauty. InstagramReddit

There is a picnic area with one bench, but no picnic tables. If you plan a picnic, be prepared to sit on the ground or bring your own portable seating. Reddit

Autumn offers stunning colors, while spring is great for spotting baby wildlife. The woodland is beautiful year-round, offering different experiences in each season. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The tranquil lake with its swans, the autumn foliage, and the whimsical fairy houses offer excellent photographic opportunities. Drone footage captures the woodland from a unique perspective. Instagram+2

Drone photography has been captured at Pressmennan Wood, showcasing the autumn woodland from above. Always check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive woodland and lake. A macro lens can be useful for photographing the small details like fairy houses and insects. Instagram

Yes, with patience, you can photograph swans on the lake and potentially deer or smaller creatures in the woods. Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light. Reddit

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful soft light. Overcast days can also be good for woodland photography, reducing harsh shadows. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Pressmennan Wood is a fantastic destination for families. The hidden fairy houses and 'Glingbobs' are a huge hit with children, sparking their imagination and making the walk an adventure. The varied terrain with stumps and mounds to navigate adds to the fun. Reddit

Keep in mind the limited parking and the muddy paths, so plan your visit accordingly. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is a must for little explorers. The short walk around the lake and through the woods can take about an hour with a young child, offering plenty of opportunities to spot mini-beasts and listen to wildlife. Reddit+1

🚶‍♀️ Solo Explorers & Dog Walkers

For those seeking solitude and peace, Pressmennan Wood is an excellent choice. The off-the-beaten-track nature of the wood means it's usually quiet, allowing for a truly immersive nature experience. Reddit

It's also a dog-friendly location, with plenty of space for canine companions to explore. Just remember to bring suitable footwear for yourself and your dog, as the paths can get muddy. The riverside walk offers a particularly pleasant route for dog walkers. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchantment of Pressmennan Wood

Pressmennan Wood is a hidden gem in East Lothian, Scotland, renowned for its magical atmosphere. The woodland is dotted with charming, hand-carved fairy houses, often referred to as 'Glingbobs' and 'Tooflits', nestled amongst the trees. These whimsical creations add a unique sense of wonder, making it a delightful place for both children and adults to explore. The longer you spend here, the more you'll discover, from the serene lake to the winding trails. InstagramReddit

The Pressmennan Lake is a focal point, offering tranquil views and a chance to spot wildlife like swans gliding gracefully on the water. The surrounding woods provide a beautiful backdrop, especially during autumn when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and gold. The various paths cater to different walking abilities, though some can be muddy, especially the lakeside route, so appropriate footwear is essential. InstagramReddit

Beyond the visual appeal, Pressmennan Wood offers a sense of peace and solitude. It's a place where you can truly lose yourself and reconnect with nature. The absence of bins encourages visitors to practice 'leave no trace' principles, helping to preserve the natural beauty of this special spot. Reddit

Navigating and Accessing Pressmennan Wood

Accessing Pressmennan Wood requires a bit of preparation due to its somewhat remote location and the condition of the access road. The single-track road leading to the car park is notorious for its potholes, making a slow and careful approach necessary. While a 4x4 vehicle is ideal, most cars can navigate it if driven cautiously. Reddit

Parking at Pressmennan Wood is extremely limited, with space for only about ten cars. This means that arriving early, particularly on weekends or during peak seasons, is highly recommended to secure a spot. Visitors are advised to park considerately to maximize the available space. InstagramReddit

For those without a car, reaching Pressmennan Wood can be challenging. While nearby towns like North Berwick are accessible by public transport from Edinburgh, further travel to the wood would likely involve a taxi or a significant walk. The effort to reach it is often rewarded by the tranquility and unique charm of the location. TikTok

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