Scotland was completely covered by forest around 5,000 years ago, but today only around four per cent of the country is home to native woodland.
The great deforestation started with the development of early agriculture and accelerated in the 17th and 18th century when trees were heavily felled for timber and charcoal.
But Scotland is still home all but three of the 10 largest forests in the UK (Kielder Forest Park in Northumberland, the New Forest in Hampshire, and Thetford Forest Park in Norfolk being the exceptions).
Here are all seven of Scotland’s largest forests.
5. Affric Forest
Spanning 180 square kilometres of woodland, Affric Forest is part of Glen Affric, around 15 miles west of Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands. it's the third largest area of ancient Caledonian pinewoods in Scotland. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Tay Forest Park
The Perthshire woodland of Tay Forest Park covers 170 square kilometres and contains one of Scotland's most spectacular vistas - Queen's View. In Allean Forest visitors can explore an 18th century farmstead and ruined Pictish ring fort. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. Glengarry Forest
Situated in the Highlands around the River Garry, Glen Garry Forest spans 165 square kilometre. It offers numerous walking paths flanked by old granny pines, broadleaves and conifers. Photo: Canva/Getty Images