The boardwalk near the loch at Beecraigs Country Park
For those who like to get outdoors on holiday, there’s nothing quite like Scotland’s country parks. Not only do you get a natural landscape, but you get facilities too, so even the youngest or oldest nature-lover in your party can enjoy the fresh air, enhanced with the promise of a playpark or tea and cake. Here are a handful of great country parks just a stone’s throw from Stirling, each with their own unique attractions. Enjoy!
Gartmorn Dam, Alloa 7 miles: Because of the wildfowl that visit here in winter, Gartmorn Dam has been deemed a site of ‘Special Scientific Interest’ and supports a huge diversity of wildlife within its 370 acre expanse. You’ll find a bird hide and viewing screens to birdwatch up close, and as well as migratory birds you will spot woodpeckers, roe deer, wild hare and even red squirrels in the woodland areas. The extensive network of footpaths is great for walking, horse-riding or cycling. For information: http://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/gartmorn-dam-country-park-and-local-nature-reserve-p254001
Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, Aberfoyle, 19 miles: Head for the David Marshall Lodge, your gateway into Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, Aberfoyle. This Forest Park claims one of the best views in Scotland from its café, so it’s worth a visit just to check! There are a number of easy and rewarding walking trails taking in everything from waterfalls to oak coppices, as well as brushwood mazes and water play for children. The more adventurous can go tree climbing with ‘Go Ape’ on site, while you may want to just observe from the Red Squirrel Hide. Entry is free although there is a £3 charge for all-day parking. There is a full list of summer events here too: http://scotland.forestry.gov.uk/forest-parks/queen-elizabeth-forest-park/the-lodge-forest-visitor-centre
Avon Aqueduct above Muiravonside Country Park
Muiravonside Country Park, 21 miles: With its animal stables, aviaries, Highland cattle, friendly Clydesdale horse Hamish, and cute Shetland ponies, this is a great choice for kids. However, everyone can enjoy the stunning and leisurely River Avon Heritage Trail around the park, past the historic Avon Aqueduct and the relics of bygone industry and farming. The park spans 170 acres and offers free entry, playgrounds, picnic areas and a tearoom too. This makes a great day out for a party of mixed ages. More info: http://www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/
Beecraigs Country Park, Linlithgow 23 miles: With a central loch and angling, a red deer herd and Highland cattle fold, as well as an extensive children’s adventure playground, Beecraigs has something for everyone within its 370 hectares. The park is open throughout the year and admission is free. The visitor centre provides information, bookings and advice about the park, and also sells hot and cold drinks and snacks, venison and Scottish gifts. For information: http://www.westlothian.gov.uk/tourism/countryparks/beecraigs/
River Tay and Friarton Bridge. Also visible on the far right is Kinnoull Tower.
Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park, Dunkeld, 45 miles: A longer drive but well worth the effort, Kinnoull Hill is deemed the ‘jewel in Perth’s crown’. Trails wander through mature woodlands of beech and pine to magnificent views over the river Tay. There’s an arboretum – a tree collection – too, where you can check out trees you might like to grow in your own garden. This area is also deservedly coming into vogue for autumn ‘leaf-peeping’, rivalling New England in the Fall for its colour and beauty. For more information: http://scotland.forestry.gov.uk/visit/kinnoull-hill
Photo credits:
- Beecraigs: Boardwalk, Beecraigs. By Richard Webb [CC-BY-SA-2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
- Avon Aqueduct: By Chris Heaton [CC-BY-SA-2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
- River Tay: Iain McDonald [CC-BY-SA-2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons