David Marshall Lodge, just outside Aberfoyle in the Trossachs, and the starting point for a number of forest walks, will be closing next week (from 24 September) for major repair work. Throughout the work, which is expected to last all winter, the forest paths will remain open and toilets and a temporary cafe facility will be available for visitors after the first week.
Susan Nash, who is the Forestry Commission Scotland’s project manager said: “We’ll be moving into some on-site temporary accommodation (port-a-cabins) on the 24th, so that we can still be on-hand to manage the trails – and the works. The Lodge will be closed that week but the trails will still be open – and the toilet facilities!
“It’s very exciting. By the time the job’s finished, David Marshall Lodge will look fantastic – inside and out – and we’re confident that everyone will just be bowled over by it.
“It’s going to make the Lodge more than ready to see through it’s next 50 years – at least!”
The listed building, which has spectacular views over the surrounding countryside, was gifted to the Forestry Commission in 1960 by the Carnegie Trust. Details of walks from the Lodge, such as the Highland Boundary Trail, as well as across the Trossachs, which are particularly renowned for autumn colour, can be found on Walkhighlands.