The Herald - The Herald Magazine
Ayrshire gem Country park has plenty to
Location: Dean Castle Country Park, Kilmarnock
Grade: Easy countryside walk
Distance: 2.5 miles/4km
Time: 1-2 hours
DESPITE living only half an hour’s drive away, I have to confess that until recently I knew very little about
Dean Castle.
Situated on the outskirts of Kilmarnock, the country park offers very pleasant walking through a variety of landscapes.
The Countryside Trail curves up to run high above the Craufurdland Waters, passing through an area of magnificent old trees and with rhododendrons to add a splash of vivid colour in the spring.
One part of the trail runs close to a housing estate (giving the residents very easy access) and here in an area called Boyd Wood, native trees are being planted to provide a screen.
Later on the trail follows the river for a considerable distance, which always creates interest and it is noticeable how much interpretation about the flora and fauna is provided.
The two rivers – the Fenwick and Craufurdland Waters – are a major feature of the park, and they join to form the Kilmarnock Water near the main entrance.
Dean Castle itself was a surprise and a delight. Dating back to the 14th century, it was primarily associated with the Boyd family who became Earls of Kilmarnock, and among the panoply of historic Scottish buildings it must class as something of a hidden gem.
It is currently undergoing restoration, partly funded by the Heritage Lottery fund, with most of the money coming from East Ayrshire council, to allow it to enjoyed by future generations to come.
Whilst these works are taking place, the castle’s collections of arms and armour, early musical instrument collections and more are on display at the nearby Dick Institute.
The country park provides a great day out for kids with its large adventure play area, mini zoo and other attractions.
Our last visit was on a truly dreich day in early winter but despite the rain my wife and I thoroughly enjoyed wandering the park trails.
At a time when so many local services are under threat from severe financial pressures, it is great to come across an example of imaginative fundraising which will ensure that Dean Castle and its lovely park have plenty to offer visitors of all ages.
ROGER SMITH ROUTE PLANNER
Map: OS 1:50,000 Landranger sheet 70 (Ayr, Kilmarnock & Troon). A free map of the park showing the trails is in the Dean Castle leaflet available at the castle or can be downloaded from www.deancastle.com
Start/Finish: Main car park, off Dean Road, KIlmarnock (GR: NS436394)
Distance: 2.5 miles/4km
Time: 1-2 hours