Oakfield Park

What You'll Find

Oakfield Park in Donegal is a beautiful, relaxing place to spend an afternoon, and the highlight for children is the little narrow-gauge railway that runs through the gardens. It turns a normal walk into an adventure and makes the park feel so much bigger for them.

Beyond the train there are extensive gardens and walking routes around the lake, swings for younger children and picnic areas, with seasonal family events adding extra reasons to visit through the year. With so much open space, children can burn off steam while you slow down and enjoy the scenery; it's a gentle family day out rather than a full-on one, in the best way.

It's a lovely one for grown-ups too: the gardens are genuinely worth seeing, with mature trees, a lake and carefully maintained grounds, and the Buffers Garden Restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating for lunch or coffee. On-site parking with accessible spaces close to the entrance makes arrival easy.

Wee Ones Will Love...

• ✓Riding the narrow-gauge railway
• ✓Playing on the swings
• ✓Exploring the gardens and lake
• ✓Walking the garden trails
• ✓Having a picnic by the lake

Before You Visit

The train doesn't necessarily run every day, so check before travelling if that's the main reason your children want to go. Paths are a mixture of surfaces and some areas are less suitable for wheels. Check current opening dates and the railway schedule before travelling.

⭐ Wee Adventurers Top Tips

• ⭐If the train is running, build your visit around it — it's the bit children remember most
• ⭐Check the railway schedule before travelling so you don't disappoint
• ⭐Bring a picnic — there are lovely spots by the lake