Stunning UK park is ‘slice of paradise’ perfect for spring day out | UK | Travel

If you’re looking for a perfect place to spend a day with family or friends, Dunorlan Park in Tunbridge Wells could well be exactly what you’re looking for. A gorgeous treasure in Kent, the sprawling green space offers a host of attractions including a large boating lake, a natural play park, a reasonably priced cafe, and plenty of local wildlife to spot.

Established in the 1850s and 1860s, many of the beautiful heritage treasures of the park have remained unchanged, such as the cascade and water garden and the Chalybeate spring, which is a source of mineral spring water. The vast open field is ideal for activities like kite flying and football, while the meadow area and formal park are adorned with stunning flower beds, which you can look over while seated at the elevated terrace when the cafe is situated. Kids will be thrilled by the natural adventure play area with its interactive musical instruments and ‘Dunorlan Dragon’.

Visitors can feed the ducks, geese and moorhens, but are kindly requested to buy feed from the cafe as bread can harm these birds, reports Kent Live.

Every Saturday at 9am, the park comes alive with its own popular Parkrun, a free weekly 5km timed run. The park, with its combination of asphalt paths, trail paths and grassy areas, is a runner’s paradise thanks to its challenging hills and inclines.

However, participants of all skill levels are heartily welcomed, so there’s no need to worry about racing against time, 

For those who fancy a tranquil trip on the lake, Dunorlan Park Boats offers rowing boats, canoes and pedalos for hire.

The season runs from April until the end of September and outside of school holidays, it’s open every weekend.For the latest updates, it’s always advisable to check their Facebook page.

If you’re in search of a sun-drenched spot for relaxation, The Terrace is your perfect destination. With the delightful aroma of wisteria filling the air during summer months, it’s a favoured location for solo visitors to indulge in a good book or bask in the sunshine.

The park also serves as a popular location for gentle workouts and Tai Chi sessions.

For those who don’t shy away from a brief yet steep stroll, an avenue adorned with 48 cedars leads to a serene corner of the park. In this tranquil area, you’ll discover a stunning water fountain and the Grecian Temple, home to the ‘Dancing Girl’ statue. 

The charming cascade and water garden, over a century-and-a-half-old, is a must-see, with the main lake flowing into a small pond housing resident terrapins.

History enthusiasts will also be captivated by the magnificent Victoria Cross Grove situated near the Bayhall Road entrance.

Be on the lookout for herons, often seen wading through the shallow waters of the lake or soaring in flight. If you’re up for some exercise during your visit, there’s an outdoor gym to be found. 

Useful information

The cafe offers toilet facilities, and there’s also a separate toilet block, inclusive of a disabled toilet.

The park is dog friendly, but they must be kept on a leash in the formal park area.

The postcode is TN2 3QN. Parking is available at the Pembury Road (A264) and Hall’s Hole Road entrances, with spaces designated for blue badge holders at each. However, bear in mind that these car parks can become crowded quickly during favourable weather. Please be aware that parking charges apply; starting at £1 for an hour, up to £5 for the entire day.