Castle ruins, playgrounds and wildlife: A treasure trove of adventure awaits
A few miles north of Irvine, in Ayrshire, lies a colossal playground just waiting to be explored.
At just over an incredible 140 hectares (347 acres) Eglinton Country Park is packed full of hidden wonders. The site boasts a ruined castle, a loch, standing stones, adventure playgrounds, visitor and ranger centres.
To find each hidden gem, take advantage of the park’s signposted walking trails, designed to help visitors make the most of their trip.
“We love to see the park busy with people enjoying themselves and getting out in the fresh air,” says head ranger Amanda Downie.
“There are a variety of routes to choose from – along the riverside and through the woodlands. Visitors enjoy the opportunity to be close to nature and the benefits it brings for both mental and physical health.”
Eglinton is cared for by North Ayrshire Council and Ranger Service, working to preserve both the park’s natural beauty and the heritage of Eglinton Estate.
Scottish Wildlife Trust has also designated part of the park a Wildlife Site, which means there is an array of wild birds, insects and small mammals to look out for as you stroll through the woods.
The routes themselves have intriguing destinations, too – including the ruins of Eglinton Castle, built about 1800 on the ancient seat of the Earls of Eglinton. Or head up Sourlie Hill to the Cairnmount Standing Stones and back across Tournament Bridge.
Here the 13th Earl held a jousting tournament re-enactment in 1839, attended by Prince Louis Napoleon, future Emperor of France.
The country park boasts two adventure play areas to keep the kids happy, one of which also has disabled access and wheelchair swings.
Eglinton’s rangers believe in access for all, and mobility scooters and all-ability trikes can be hired for free from the ranger centre so that everyone can enjoy the park’s farthest attractions along the woodland routes. Do check at the ranger centre near the car park before you head out, though, as some of the routes can get muddy.
Cyclists and horse-riders are also welcome, and you can get a permit for fishing in the loch.
The park achieved the Green Flag Award in October 2012, and the rangers are proud of their Eco Code and commitment to protecting the environment. The rangers are also involved in several national and local wildlife surveys, and encourage visitors to take part.
If you find yourself intrigued by their work, the North Ayrshire Countryside Ranger Service is also a John Muir Award provider, offering a full outdoor learning programme – as well as resource packs for visiting groups.
“Don’t forget to check out the Eglinton Country Park Heritage Trail,” Amanda says. “It gives insight into the old Eglinton Estate from the
castle ruins to the Ice House in Old Wood. Check it out on the Places That We Know app to find out more.”