The main conifer planting consists of a mix of species, in the main being Scots pine, Norway and Sitka spruce and a scattering of deciduous larch. An ancient beech hedge, twisted and gnarled with age, runs atop the dyke which separates the wood from the road. Between the evergreens, oak, birch, hawthorn and holly create a dense understorey sitting just above a verdant mix of ferns and mosses.

The wide variety of flora in Hailes Wood makes it an ideal home for wildlife large and small, whether aerial or ground-based. A large selection of invertebrates gives a vital food source for a wide variety of birds, which are in turn preyed upon by their larger cousins. Toads and frogs inhabit the dense clumps of grass, finding a breeding place in the occasional small seasonal pools. Larger mammals such as deer and badger are resident within the wood as a whole, and their foraging forays know no human boundary restrictions.

The topography is largely level, dipping gently to the west to the boundary with the neighbouring wood. A rustic bench has been installed to encourage the visitor to sit and rest and take in the surrounding nature. The stone strengthened area would be an ideal spot to stack cut timber prior to its transportation to a wood burner 'ready' pile.

Access to the wood is through a double-gated entrance off the B6355, from here the historic stone track is suitable for most cars and leads to the woodland entrance.

The sporting rights are owned and included in the sale.

Already incredibly diverse, the wood could benefit from low-level management and conservation activity. The mature timber stands would sustainably provide a rotational domestic fuel supply.

An occasional overnight stopover would be the ideal opportunity to observe the hive of animal activity that transpires once human activity is not so apparent.

The surrounding landscape is steeped in history. Hailes Castle is a castle dating mainly from the 14th-century, lying 5 miles east of Haddington. First constructed in the 1200's, its story parallels the turbulent history and the changing fortunes of the nation of Scotland.

To the south lie the Lammamuir hills which contain several excellent walking and cycling trails. The Pencaitland Railway Walk which starts in Gifford offers wonderful views of parts of East Lothian that are inaccessible by car. The trees and hedgerows along the route offer shelter to a great diversity of wildlife and many rare wildflowers are established along the embankments.