Directory of Nature Charities in Ayrshire & Arran
Ayrshire and the Isle of Arran contain a remarkably varied natural environment, from upland moors, woodlands and river valleys to extensive farmland, beaches, dunes, rocky coast and the marine habitats of the Firth of Clyde. The region’s rivers support important freshwater wildlife, while Ayrshire’s coastline and Arran’s surrounding seas provide habitats for seabirds, marine mammals, fish, seagrass, kelp and other marine life. Arran is also recognised internationally for its geological heritage and is home to some of Scotland’s rarest native trees.
This directory brings together charities, community organisations, partnerships, biological recording bodies and other key organisations working for nature across Ayrshire and Arran. It includes organisations involved in river restoration, marine conservation, woodland and habitat management, wildlife recording, natural history, species conservation, environmental education and community-led action.
Nature Charities in Ayrshire & Arran
Including registered charities, CICs, coalitions, alliances, and related organisations.
Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Ayrshire Group is a volunteer-led local group supporting the Trust’s conservation aims across Ayrshire. It organises local meetings, practical conservation, fundraising and community activities, and works alongside the Trust’s staff and volunteers on wildlife projects.
South West Scotland Environmental Information Centre is the Local Environmental Records Centre for Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway. It collects, manages and shares wildlife and habitat information and provides an important evidence base for conservation, planning, research and nature recovery.
Ayrshire Rivers Trust is a registered conservation charity working across all of Ayrshire’s principal river catchments. Its work includes habitat restoration, fish monitoring, invasive-species control, water-quality improvement, woodland planting and community and educational projects.
Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere brings communities, land managers, conservationists and businesses together to support nature, sustainable development and rural resilience. Its Ayrshire work includes nature recovery, woodland planting, species monitoring and community environmental projects.
Ayrshire Archaeological & Natural History Society promotes the study, recording and conservation of Ayrshire’s natural and cultural heritage. The volunteer-run society organises talks, excursions, research and publications and remains active in 2026.
The Ayrshire Branch of the Scottish Ornithologists’ Club promotes the study and conservation of birds through meetings, outings and local recording. The branch works with the club’s Ayrshire recorder and supports the area’s established bird-recording network.
Ayrshire & Arran Bat Group promotes the conservation, study and recording of bats across the region. Its activities include surveys, hibernation monitoring, bat-box projects, training, bat care and participation in wider national bat-recording programmes.
Glasgow & South West Scotland Branch of Butterfly Conservation covers Ayrshire as part of its wider branch area. It supports butterfly and moth recording, habitat management, conservation projects, surveys and volunteer activities across south-west Scotland.
Arran Geopark is a registered Scottish charity conserving and interpreting the island’s outstanding geological and natural heritage. Its work combines research, education, conservation and sustainable community development, and Arran was designated a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2025.
Community of Arran Seabed Trust is a pioneering marine conservation charity working to restore and protect the seas around Arran and the Firth of Clyde. Its work combines community action, research, education and campaigning, including stewardship of the South Arran Marine Protected Area.
The Arran Trust funds environmental, conservation and community projects that help safeguard Arran’s landscapes and natural environment. It supports local groups and initiatives addressing wildlife, marine issues, access, woodland and sustainable development.
Arran Access Trust is a registered charity improving and maintaining public access across Arran while seeking to minimise impacts on the island’s natural environment. Its work includes path maintenance, new routes, visitor management and protection of sensitive sites.
Roots of Arran Community Woodland is a volunteer-run charity restoring a 30-hectare woodland near Brodick. Its work includes native tree planting, invasive-species removal, habitat management, path work and community involvement to improve Arran’s biodiversity.
Arran Eco Savvy is a registered charity helping the island move towards a more sustainable and environmentally resilient future. Its work includes waste reduction, community food initiatives, active travel, climate education and projects encouraging people to live more sustainably.
Arran Community Land Initiative is a registered charity managing around 80 acres of community land at Whiting Bay. Its work combines outdoor education, recreation, gardening, tree planting, biodiversity projects and practical community stewardship.
Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue is an independent Scottish wildlife charity based in North Ayrshire, rescuing, treating and rehabilitating injured and orphaned wild animals and birds. The centre also provides wildlife-care training and advice and operates an extensive rehabilitation facility.
East Ayrshire Woodlands is a partnership helping communities and landowners expand and improve woodland habitat across Ayrshire. It promotes sustainable woodland management, native woodland creation and better-connected habitats for people and wildlife.
North Ayrshire Biodiversity Partnership brings public bodies, conservation organisations, landowners and communities together to improve biodiversity across North Ayrshire. It supports local nature projects and coordinates action to halt biodiversity loss and improve ecological conditions.
Ayrshire Coastal Path is a volunteer-managed long-distance trail running along Ayrshire’s coastline from Glenapp to Skelmorlie. Its volunteer network maintains the route and helps people experience and appreciate the county’s coastal landscapes and natural heritage.