Description
Muiravonside Country Park is a massive 170-acre woodland and activity space that serves as a fantastic outdoor retreat for families in Central Scotland. As one of the best things to do with kids in Falkirk, this country park features a stunning combination of riverside walks, a historic estate, and the very popular Newparks Farm. It is a brilliant spot for a family day out where children can get close to animals and burn off energy in the fresh air.
Entry to the park grounds and the animal farm is completely free. While there is no admission fee to see the animals, visitors should plan for a small £2.00 parking charge which helps with the conservation of the estate.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that offers both wildlife and woodland adventure, Muiravonside Country Park is a top choice. It provides an educational day out where kids can learn about Scottish farming heritage, alongside sensory play opportunities in the multi-level play areas and nature trails.
Features
- Free
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
What makes Muiravonside Country Park unique?
Muiravonside is unique because it manages to pack a fully functioning demonstration farm, a historic lime kiln, and a river valley into one accessible site. It offers a rare educational day out where children can observe rare-breed farm animals like Hebridean sheep and Clydesdale horses in a non-commercial setting. The park also features a diverse range of habitats, from ancient woodland to the banks of the River Avon, making it perfect for sensory play and nature exploration.
- Newparks Farm: A free-to-visit farm within the park that focuses on rare and traditional Scottish livestock.
- River Avon Heritage: The park contains the remains of a historic mill and a massive aqueduct that towers over the walking trails.
- Sculpture Trail: A series of wooden carvings hidden throughout the woods that keep children engaged during family walks.
Top 5 Highlights
- The Rare Breed Animals: Children will love meeting the Highland cows, donkeys, and pigs at Newparks Farm; it is a very relaxed environment to see animals up close.
- The Avon Aqueduct: This spectacular piece of engineering carries the Union Canal high above the river; walking underneath it provides a real sense of scale and adventure.
- The Adventure Playground: A large, modern play area with wooden structures that blend into the forest, featuring enough variety to keep toddlers and older kids busy.
- The Secret Fairy Trail: Small fairy houses are hidden amongst the trees, encouraging little ones to walk further into the woods while they hunt for magical clues.
- The Lime Kilns: These historic structures look like tiny stone fortresses and are great for curious older children interested in the "Olden Days" of local industry.
Muiravonside Country Park offers a wide range of sub-exhibits and specific areas to explore:
- Newparks Farm (Home to Highland cows, ponies, and goats).
- The Courtyard Café (Located in the old stable block).
- The Sensory Garden (A quiet space designed for smell and touch).
- The River Avon Trail (A scenic riverside path).
- The Union Canal Access (Connects directly to the park for longer walks).
- The Giant Wooden Owl (A specific landmark on the sculpture trail).
- The Historic Lime Kilns (Remnants of the park's industrial past).
- The Wooded Ravine (A deep valley perfect for bird watching).
- The Picnic Orchard (A dedicated grassy area for family meals).
- The Visitor Centre (Staffed by volunteers with local maps).
Beyond the Main Attraction: Just a 10-minute drive away is The Helix, home to the world-famous Kelpies. You are also very close to Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, which is perfect for extending your historical day out.
5.23 miles
