​Errant landowner refused walkers on the Whisky Trail access to estate

Ramblers have forced a landowner to reopen locked gates that were installed last month at Kinrara in the Cairngorms National Park.

The park authority announced today (3 Aug) that public access has been restored – meaning walkers, cyclists, horse-riders and others can once again access the estate, and join the Speyside Way which runs through it.

TFN reported last month how ramblers trying to join or leave the iconic long distance route at Kinrara, known as the Whisky Trail, had been faced with long detours, with the closest alternatives at Aviemore, Dalraddy Holiday Park and Kincraig.

The estate is reportedly owned by London-based businessman Tor McLaren but is run by his uncle, major Robin McLaren.

Under Scottish law, there is an obligation on people who own and manage land to ensure that public access is facilitated where access rights apply.

Brendan Paddy, director of Ramblers Scotland, said: “This is an excellent result that makes it much easier for people to once again access the beautiful woods at Kinrara, and the Speyside Way that runs through the estate.

“We strongly support the work of Cairngorms National Park Authority alongside the landowner to deliver such a quick resolution, avoiding what had the potential to be a costly and lengthy dispute.

“The locked gates had sparked an immediate response from residents, tourists and outdoors enthusiasts – highlighting just how much people value our world-class access rights here in Scotland.”

Paddy added: “We would urge any landowners with concerns about access to work with recreational bodies and access authorities to find practical solutions, to ensure everyone can continue to responsibly enjoy our wonderful countryside.”