A 100-acre Georgian estate and garden in Donegal, where Ireland's longest miniature-gauge railway loops around the lakes past a hedge maze, sculptures and a castle folly.
Over 4.5km of Ireland's longest miniature-gauge railway weaves around the lakes and meadows; the trip takes about 15 minutes and trains run on every open day, at least hourly. The Duchess of Difflin steam engine runs on the last Sunday of the month ('Steam Sunday'). Tickets are bought at the gate on arrival — no pre-booking except for groups.
Located next to Buffers Restaurant, so you can relax with a coffee while the children play. Expect natural play, wooden equipment, slides, a tunnel and a nature dome with crafts, live exhibits and free nature trails.
Sculptures in wood, stone and metal are dotted through both gardens. Look for 'The Longsleeper' by Lockie Morris, the largest, plus 'The Keepers of the Knowledge', 'Serene', the 'Love Seat', chainsaw carvings, 'Reading Chaucer' and 'Deer'.
Kilometres of safe, traffic-free paths pass under native woodland, alongside sculpture and over wetland. Routes include Bishop's Walk, Boot Hill and a signposted 2.5km red path; printed maps and the free app help you navigate.
Fifty acres of formal gardens, ponds, a lake and Nymphaeum, walled gardens, glasshouses and wildflower meadows, opening only in June, July and August, 12–4pm. Admittance is included in your entry fee. Weekend and bank-holiday guided tours of this private area leave the welcome kiosk at 2pm and 4pm.
One of the park's most popular additions: 880 plants and 1km of pathway leading to the centre and an imposing 10-metre-tall brick tower — then the challenge of finding your way out. The free Oakfield Park app includes a map if you get stuck.
A fully licensed garden restaurant in the heart of the park, using produce from the walled garden. Menus run from soups, sandwiches and stone-baked pizzas to burgers, ribs and pasta, with gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options; eat indoors or outdoors.
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