Palacerigg Country Park — Attraction in Great Britain

BE AWARE: There are currently no animals or farm sections due to NL Council cuts a couple of years back. I have told Visit Scotland and other online websites - but they refuse to change the details!

GOOD POINTS: FREE ENTRY AND PARKING! Amazing woodland trails where you can often see roe deer, owls, foxes (even in the daytime) buzzards, kestrels and herons! The changing seasons and various paths mean that you can go back several times in a row and never get the same walk twice. Just give yourself a couple of hours to explore and ramble around... you can't get lost, just head back to the golf course if you think you've wandered too far! Also, Fannyaside Loch is beautiful and there are two playgrounds to choose from :)

BAD POINTS: The signposting can be a bit confusing if you're not local. There aren't enough dog poop bins if you start walking out towards the loch and Glencryan/Forest wood. A few of the trails haven't been resurfaced yet so can be uneven to walk on/ access for pushchairs/wheelchairs. The visitor centre is currently closed so no toilets or cafe... you may need to do a 'nature wee' if you're desperate ;)

TO CONSIDER: Improvements to the paths and boardwalks are constantly being made, and there's a new playground that replaced the old rotten tree-top walk. Access isn't great for disabled people, but there are some paths that are suitable in drier weather. A community trust has taken over the running of the park, but at the moment it's in the admin stages, so...

Palacerigg Country Park is an absolute lovely for anyone who loves the outdoors and a touch of adventure.

From the moment you step onto its woodland trails, you’re surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature — birdsong, rustling leaves, and the occasional sighting of a roe deer darting through the trees. The park’s nature trails are well maintained and perfect for long walks or gentle hikes, winding through stunning woodlands and the impressive Glencryan Gorge. One of the highlights is definitely the treetop walkway, offering a fresh perspective of the park from above and a great spot for birdwatching. The area is teeming with local wildlife — bats, dragonflies, owls, and more — making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

What I love most about Palacerigg is its variety — it’s the kind of place that caters to everyone. If you’re after something active, there are great routes for mountain biking and longer hiking circuits that test your stamina while rewarding you with breathtaking views. Families can enjoy the open spaces for picnics or BBQs, while the visitor centre provides a fascinating look into the park’s wildlife and history. Whether you’re out for a relaxing stroll, a scenic bike ride, or simply to reconnect with nature, Palacerigg Country Park delivers a perfect balance of adventure and tranquility. It’s a place that truly makes you appreciate the beauty of Scotland’s...

It wasn't that I disliked it, I was really saddened by how it has not been looked after. I used to go there often before I moved to Ireland. On a recent visit I took my young nephew there. We couldn't find animals. On the way in there was a thick oily gunge, similar to curry sauce floating in the pond and the ducks were covered. Sad. Inside wasn't much better, needing a bit of love. Cheap toys for sale for kids. The cafe was busy with others expressing their disappointment. The young girl behind the counter did very well juggling serving everyone and bringing food to the table. My family and I chatted with some others about possible changes. We know there is going to be some on the play area, which is great, but kids always came here to see little animals. If you charged a couple of pounds entry for adults only, that would help. Plus up the quality of toys and gifts, making a better profit. Also make the cafe where some people just want to come for coffee. Original coloured chairs, paintings of animals on the wall for sale, profit and decoration. Colourful cups and saucers. Fresh bakery cakes, start small and hopefully grow . But supply quality and charge for it. Not over the top but enough for little animals to be cared for and our children see...