The deep forests of Scotland are filled with secrets and legends, holding stories forgotten by time. But what if I told you there is an actual library hidden in the woodland on the Isle of Arran?
The Library in the Woods is located in Kildonan on the Isle of Arran, just under a three-hour drive from Glasgow. Built by Albert Holmes, who owns the land where the wee library stands, around twenty years ago, the structure boasts books and wholesome messages brought in by locals and visitors alike.
Attracting 50,000 visitors every year, the library was built with 300 trees fallen after a storm on the island, showcasing the message of revival, hope and rebirth.
Messages from all over the world
Mr Holmes, who is the founder of Eas Mor Ecology Group, told The Scotsman: “We built the library to teach people about ecology and the woods, and we left paper and pencils in there for a rainy day. Now the messages and pictures hanging on the wall are about 25 layers deep.”
People from all over the world visit the trail and the library, leaving pictures, poems and messages on the walls. So, next time you’re there, why not give them a read and soak in the positivity!
Over the years, the Library in the Woods has gotten immense attention, and its founder misses when it was still a secret. Unfortunately, all secrets must be spilt eventually.
Visiting the Library in the Woods
The trail also boasts a coffee shop, an amphitheatre and a waterfall, as well as a remote hill loch. Guests can park on both sides of the Eas Mor Ecology centre at the Kildonan road turning from the A841, and the buses will stop there upon request.
The full trail takes around two hours to complete, spanning over 5.25 kilometres / 3.25 miles, boasting good footpaths throughout.
Walking Highlands offers a comprehensive guide on the entire trail and its directions, and you can find it here.
