Oakfield Park, located in Raphoe, County Donegal, is an 18th-century Georgian Deanery set across 100 acres of lush parklands, woodlands, and award-winning gardens. Renowned for its scenic beauty’s longest miniature gauge railway, and family-friendly activities, it’s a highlight of the Wild Atlantic Way.
- Built in 1739 as the Deanery for Raphoe Cathedral, Oakfield Park served as a residence until 1869 when it was sold to Thomas Butler Stoney. It changed hands among local families (Morrows, McElhinneys, Pattersons) and was restored to its current glory, earning national awards for its gardens and buildings. A Victorian Ram Pump, installed in 1864 and still operational, supplies water to the formal ponds, showcasing historical ingenuity. The park’s private ownership and meticulous restoration make it a “secret jewel of Donegal,” blending history with natural beauty.
- Cultural Appeal: The estate reflects Donegal’s heritage through its gardens, sculptures, and events, offering a serene yet engaging experience for families, couples, and groups. Its connection to local history and the Donegal Garden Trail enhances its cultural significance.
- Key Features and Activities:
- Gardens and Parklands: The 100-acre estate features formal walled gardens, a kitchen garden, ponds, lakes, and a lakeside Nymphaeum (a classical monument). Visitors can explore flower meadows, wild wetlands, heritage trees, oak circles, willow tunnels, and sculptures like the Long Sleeper and Morholt the Land Giant. A hedge maze is under development, adding to the park’s whimsical charm. The grounds are home to swans, wildlife, and four acres of wildflowers, with wild garlic adding to the sensory experience.
- Miniature Gauge Railway: Ireland’s longest narrow-gauge railway (4.5 km) is a highlight, with diesel trains running daily and the Duchess of Difflin steam train operating on the last Sunday of each month. The train weaves through woodlands, meadows, and lakes, passing the Castle Folly and offering a magical way to see the lower gardens. A wheelchair-accessible carriage is available.
- Play Areas and Family Activities: The outdoor playground features swings, slides, and climbing structures, delighting children of all ages. The Faerie Tree, where kids can make wishes, adds a magical touch. Events like the Teddy Bear’s Picnic (with a Teddy Hospital) and Easter Express (Donegal’s biggest Easter Hunt) cater to families. The park is dog-friendly (on leads) and offers picnic benches for a relaxed day out.
- Buffers Restaurant and Tea Rooms: Open daily during park hours, Buffers serves home-baked treats, soups, salads, and meals made with produce from the park’s gardens. The menu rivals gastropub quality, with affordable prices (e.g., €4.50 for two teas, a scone, and an éclair). Robinson’s Vintage Ice-Cream Van offers coffee, tea, ice cream, and Donegal craft beers on sunny days. The restaurant is praised for its friendly service and scenic views.
- Guided Tours: The upper gardens are accessible only by guided tours (introduced due to past vandalism and safety concerns), offering historical insights and a curated route. Guides like Bronwyn are highly rated for their engaging storytelling. The lower gardens and railway are freely explorable.
- A visit typically lasts 2–4 hours, with families often spending a full day exploring the gardens, playground, and train. The park’s variety ensures entertainment for all ages.
- Cost: Admission is €10 for adults, €6 for children (3–16), €8 for seniors/students, and €30 for a family of two adults and two children (including one train ride). Some reviews note it’s pricier than other Donegal attractions, but prices have remained stable for four years despite inflation. Season passes (Standard or Gold) offer unlimited visits, ideal for regulars.
- The park has partial wheelchair access, with dedicated parking spaces, wheelchair-friendly paths to the restaurant and train station, and an accessible train carriage. However, some upper garden areas and uneven terrain are inaccessible. No motorized scooters are available.
- Atmosphere and Appeal: With over 300 Tripadvisor reviews and a Travellers’ Choice award, Oakfield Park is lauded as a “hidden gem” for its immaculate grounds, friendly staff, and family-friendly vibe. Visitors praise the “lovingly cared for” park, with sculptures, wildlife, and the train ride creating a magical experience. Some note high costs (e.g., €52 for a family with train rides) and the guided-only upper gardens as drawbacks, but most find it excellent value.
- Criticisms: Negative reviews mention poor signage, high costs for families, and disappointment over the upper gardens’ restricted access. Past vandalism and insurance issues led to the guided tour requirement, though feedback on tours is positive.
- Location and Getting There: At Oakfield Demesne, Raphoe, Co. Donegal (F93 XY1R), the park is a 15-minute drive from Letterkenny or 30 minutes from Derry. Public transport is limited; a car is recommended. Free parking is available, with coach spaces for groups.
- Nearby Attractions: Pair a visit with Lurgybrack Open Farm (10 minutes), Beltany Stone Circle (5 minutes), or Glenveagh National Park (25 minutes). Raphoe’s historic sites, like Raphoe Castle, are nearby.
What’s New:
- Opening Season: Oakfield Park opens from April 9 to September 28, 2025, Wednesday to Sunday (plus Bank Holidays) from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and daily in June, July, and August. It will also open late for special events, such as the Santa Express in December. Visitors planning for May/June should confirm dates via www.oakfieldpark.com.
- New App Launch: Launched on March 4, 2025, the Oakfield Park app helps visitors plan their trip, offering details on attractions, events, and ticketing. This digital upgrade improves accessibility and engagement, reflecting the park’s modernization efforts.
- Hedge Maze Development: A “hedge maze” will open.
- Ongoing Improvements: The park continues to develop the lower gardens around the railway and restaurant, responding to past vandalism and safety concerns. The guided tours for the upper gardens, introduced to protect the area, will continue, with positive feedback indicating their value.
Practical Tips for Visiting
- Getting There: Drive from Letterkenny (15 minutes) or Derry (30 minutes) via the N13. Signage can be poor; use GPS (F93 XY1R). Public transport is limited; consider taxis or guided tours via Discover Ireland. Free parking is available.
- What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes for trails, bring a picnic for benches, and pack rain gear for Donegal’s changeable weather. A camera captures the scenic gardens and sculptures. Buffers Restaurant covers dining needs.
- Best Time to Visit: June–August for daily access and warmer weather, or May 24–25 for the Food Festival. The steam train runs on the last Sunday of each month. Book guided tours or event tickets in advance viawww.oakfieldpark.com
- Safety: Supervise children near open water (lakes, ponds) due to “Deep Water” signs. The park is family-friendly but requires parental vigilance.
- Combine with Other Sites: Visit Lurgybrack Open Farm, Beltany Stone Circle, or Glenveagh National Park for a full Donegal day.
- For the latest 2025 updates, contact Oakfield Park (+353 74 9173922, info@oakfieldpark.com) or check www.oakfieldpark.com.
