Glenlivet Estate

Acquired by The Crown Estate in 1937, Glenlivet is an, highly integrated multiple-use upland estate. Managed to provide opportunities for sustained employment in agriculture, forestry, sporting, and tourism, a high priority is given to the long-term development of the estate's community, it's recreational, educational and other resources. This is balanced with the need to protect, enhance and conserve the rich natural and cultural heritage of this fascinating area, while preserving the special qualities and characteristics of the countryside, which combine to produce the remarkable Glenlivet landscape.

Today farming is still the major industry although the need to remain viable now means the estate's tenanted farms are fewer, larger and more efficient. Livestock is the main product, with an emphasis on cattle breeding and rearing. While altitude and exposure restrict agricultural activities, the soils of the area are generally fertile and the quality of stock is highly regarded.

The rolling heather covered Cromdale and Ladder Hills, encircle the estate. A particular feature of the area, especially in the late summer and autumn when the purple flowers come into bloom, these moorlands support populations of red grouse, together with other characteristic upland birds and animals. The moors are carefully maintained by controlled burning to increase the numbers of grouse that live on them - an activity that helps to conserve this special habitat. Grouse shooting takes place in August and September but other activities including deerstalking, rough shooting and salmon fishing allow the operation of year round sporting activities on the estate.

Afforestation in the 1950's and 1960's resulted in the establishment of the pine and spruce woods that dissect the countryside. Managed by The Crown Estate, a restructuring programme of thinning, clearance and replanting is now in progress. The aim is to produce a continuous crop of timber for the future and long term employment in the area, while maintaining and improving the benefits for shelter, diversity for wildlife and facilities for recreation.

Native broad-leaved trees account for a high percentage of newly planted areas and there are several stands of semi-natural woods of birch and alder, which add greatly to the natural heritage of the area. Birch woods support a rich and varied mix of plants and animals, but they have suffered a severe decline over the years as grazing animals hinder regeneration. Steps are being taken to manage, protect and extend areas of birchwood, through farm-based woodland management schemes. Grazing pressure is reduced and natural regeneration encouraged, helping to conserve these attractive woods and the wildlife they support.

The varied nature of the countryside provides good opportunities for enjoying birdwatching or viewing other upland animals. With habitats varying from woodlands, juniper scrub, heather heath, and rough grassland to blanket peat, bogs and rivers there is a rich biodiversity of wildlife. Read more here...

Within this working landscape, new uses of the land have appeared to complement traditional activities. These range from the skiing to clay pigeon shooting to Wild Farm Walks. Read more here... The extensive network of waymarked walking and cycling trails provides access to many quiet, attractive and remote parts of the estate, while the progressive development of new facilities and services for visitors is an important element of estate management.

If you would like to know more about the estate or any of the walks, trails, places of interest, wildlife, access and visitor facilities, please contact ranger staff at the Estate Office and Information Centre. Read more here...

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