The Reay Forest Estate hosted its first open days in May 2022, giving visitors an insight into modern rural estate management and to inform our communities about how we are working to deliver a lasting commercial, social and environmental benefit.

More than 120 pupils from nearby secondary and primary schools in Kinlochbervie, Gairloch, Ullapool, Durness, Scourie and Lochinver attended a separate school-focused event as well as about 150 members of the public.

With the support of Countryside Learning Scotland, the estate developed 12 activity centres based around the hamlet of Achfary with employees presenting the wide-ranging activities which take place at Reay Forest, including conservation of the estate’s many designated habitats, deer management, sustainable forestry activities, rural estate careers and philanthropy through the Westminster Foundation.

In addition, visitors were able to hear from the estate’s partner organisations, such as Wildlife Estates Scotland, Countryside Learning Scotland, as well as local businesses.