The above map displays a map of Dean Castle and Country Park with key areas pointed out and referenced in this article.
The Castle:
Dean Castle (1), the cornerstone of this attraction, offers an interactive insight into the history of the castle and its ownership by the Boyd and DeWalden families.
Within the castle grounds, you can explore the Courtyard, the Well, the Palace, and the Keep. The Keep really delves back in time featuring lots of weapons and armour on display and even a dungeon with a prisoner (not real) included.
Make sure to take lots of photos of your little ones seated on the thrones, all dressed up in the historical costumes available. But, be wary that you may need to carry your little "princes and princesses" as you navigate the steep steps in the castle grounds.
The trails:
There are numerous trails you can proceed along. The History Trail (highlighted in blue) is the easiest and shortest route, only 0.6 miles navigating around the castle. Go discover more with several stories stationed around the trail, including the preserved graveyard (5) of the Scott-Ellis family. Perfect for the upcoming spooky season!
The Farm Trail (highlighted in red) features the park's wildlife. Recently, I came across pigs, horses, plenty of squirrels and one angry goose (7) (nearly got attacked!). It is longer than The History Trail, spanning 1.3 miles, but still just as accessible with varying paths to accommodate all levels of fitness.
The Countryside Trail (highlighted in yellow), is the longest but most engaging of the lot. You traverse the farthest reaches on this 2 mile journey, uncovering unique agriculture and hidden gems. There are numerous fun activities along the trail, involving kids imagination and understanding of the behaviours of animals, avoiding the dreaded "im boreeedddd!"
The Amenities:
There are two primary car parks, located at 4 and 6, with a good amount of disabled parking spots and electric vehicles charging points. Besides the car park (4), you will find the visitor centre (2) with a host of staff and materials available to help with any question or issue you may have.
Additionally, there is the Treehouse Café within the visitor centre with a range of hot and cold foods for the whole family (dogs included). Also including a gift shop for kids, so they can go home even more happy.
There are toilets located throughout the park, including in the Rural Life Centre (3). In this building, please do check out the Rural Life Centre information boards where you can learn about how Dean Park employs sustainable practices to protect their wild citizens.
Three Key Tips to enhance your experience:
1. Visit at the weekend or during school holidays.
- This is when most fun and interesting events will occur, particularly for kids and also, it is when all facilities stay open for longer, giving you more opportunity to experience what's on offer.
2. Bring comfortable walking boots or wellies.
- I made the decision to wear white trainers to visit the park and that did not turn out to be one of my wisest decisions. BIG CLEANING JOB on the way after I publish this post!. The terrain is indeed not the cleanest, there is a lot of mud (particularly after raining), so wellies or dark coloured boots are your best option for going home happier than I did.
3. Behave in an Eco-Friendly way.
- Besides interacting with their sustainable practices and teachings located throughout the park, be a eco-friendly citizen yourself by bringing your own cup which grants you 10% off all drinks and buying their very own travel mug where the first fill is FREE. Who knew protecting the environment could be so beneficial?
Thank you so much for reading my first blog! I really hope you now feel inspired to go experience the fun and joy presented in Dean Park.
What are your thoughts on Dean Park? Please feel free to leave your opinions below, alongside any other feedback and comments, it would be greatly appreciated!
*Upcoming Events in Dean Park*
Feed the Birds - 2pm on 16th October
Bushcraft Bakery - 11am-12noon & 2pm-3pm on 17th October
Woodland Witches & Wizards - 11am-12noon & 2pm-3pm on 18th October
Fawkes Festival - Fireworks and Lasers "Spooktacular" - 29th & 31st October
Starry Nights at Dean Castle - A magical illuminated Christmas experience - 8th to 23rd December
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