A Warm Welcome

Welcome to Oakfield Park — a place where nature, heritage, and tranquillity come together across acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, lakes, and woodland. We are delighted that you are considering a visit, and we want every guest to feel comfortable, supported, and included during their time with us.

This Accessibility Welcome Guide has been created to help you plan your visit with confidence. It outlines the features, facilities, and considerations that may be helpful before you arrive. We recognise that every guest has unique needs, and our team is always happy to offer personalised assistance before and during your time in the park.

We look forward to welcoming you to Oakfield Park and hope your visit is peaceful, memorable, and inspiring.

The Oakfield Park Team


Our Commitment

Oakfield Park is a historic demesne with extensive gardens, lakes, woodlands, and heritage buildings. While the estate includes natural gradients and some uneven terrain, we are committed to improving accessibility wherever possible and providing clear, helpful information so that all guests can enjoy their experience fully.

We have worked with Fáilte Ireland to provide detailed accessibility information so that you can learn more about our facilities before your visit. For more information, please click here on [Accessibility Resources] (replace with your link).

Before Your Visit

If you have any accessibility needs, we encourage you to reach out in advance so we can support you in the best way possible.

  • Address: Oakfield Demesne, Raphoe, Co. Donegal, F93 XY1R 
  • Phone: 074 9173922 
  • Email: [email protected] 

Our team is happy to provide guidance on accessible routes, mobility considerations, and suitable areas of the estate.


Parking & Arrival

  • Designated accessible parking spaces are available close to the main entrance.

  • Paths from the car park to the entrance are generally level and suitable for wheelchairs and buggies.

  • Staff are available near the entrance to provide assistance when needed.


Mobility & Pathways

The estate includes a variety of surfaces, including gravel paths, paved walkways, grass areas, and woodland trails.

  • Many of our main routes are wheelchair-friendly, including pathways around the formal gardens and lake.

  • Some areas have gravel, slopes, or uneven surfaces due to the natural landscape.

  • Elevated viewpoints and woodland trails may be challenging for visitors using wheelchairs or mobility aids.

  • If you would like advice on accessible routes, we recommend contacting us before your visit.


Trains & Attractions

  • Our Narrow-Gauge Railway operates seasonally. Wheelchair access may vary depending on the carriage; please reach out in advance so we can accommodate you where possible.

  • Train whistles and engine sounds may be loud at times; visitors with sensory sensitivities are welcome to use ear defenders.


Toilets & Facilities

  • Accessible toilet facilities are available near the main visitor area.

  • Baby-changing amenities are located in the primary facilities block.

  • Seating is provided throughout the gardens for rest and comfort.


Café & Eating Areas

  • The Buffers Garden Restaurant is accessible with both indoor and outdoor seating options.

  • Staff can assist with carrying trays or accommodating additional needs.

  • Allergen information is displayed, and our team is happy to guide you with dietary requirements.


Sensory Considerations

Oakfield Park is generally calm and spacious, but visitors may wish to know:

  • The park can be busier during school holidays and events.

  • The railway may produce occasional loud whistles.

  • Natural sounds (wildlife, wind, water features) and maintenance equipment may be present.

For a quieter experience, visiting in the morning or on weekdays is recommended.


Assistance Dogs

  • Registered assistance dogs are welcome across the estate.

  • Water bowls are available upon request.

  • For the safety of all guests, dogs must remain on leads.


Carers & Companions

Guests who require assistance are welcome to bring a carer or essential companion. Please contact us ahead of your visit if you have questions or need guidance.

Emergency & Safety Information

  • Our staff are trained to assist in emergencies and will offer guidance if needed.

  • First aid support is available on-site.

  • Certain paths may become slippery after rain — please take care when exploring.


Feedback

We continually strive to improve the accessibility of Oakfield Park. If you have feedback that might help us enhance the visitor experience, we would be delighted to hear from you.

📞 074 9173922

📧 [email protected]

Amazing

This park is fabulous! The grounds are very well kept with loads of wildlife! Plenty to see and do! Definitely on the list of things to do in Donegal

Gloria

8/6/2021 – Tripadvisor

What a fantastic day

I went to Oakfield park with my 4 and 5 year old boys and in their words it was the best day of our holiday ever! From the start we were met with extremely kind and enthusiastic staff members who couldn’t be more helper. My son’s played in the playground and explored all Oakfield had to offer for six hours. It was so clean and well looked after. A hidden gem we will definitely be returning to.

A_Ui_Mhathuna

7/7/2021 – TripAdvisor

Great day at Oakfield Park yesterday

Had a wonderful guided tour of the upper gardens (delighted to see 4 acres of wild flowers coming up and wild garlic everywhere) then strolled around the lower gardens later on. Scrap was still with us the last time we were here and his photo by the Faerie Tree is still one of my favourites. Oakfield is more beautiful than I remember and Morholt the Land Giant is amazing! Coffee at Buffers was great and cheap. Something for everyone.

Terence McCann

30/05/2021 – Facebook

Santa Express

By FAR the best Santa experience we have visited. Every part is so well planned and feels so professional. From the train to the grotto to the outdoor entertainment and puppet show. My sons loved every bit of it. We ate at the restaurant and the food was so easy to order and quick. All round a 5* experience.

SarahApple17

22/12/2020 – Tripadvisor

Fantastic jewel of a location.

Beautiful gardens and superbly maintained. It is beautifully presented with wonderful facilities and staff. The railway is a gem and so much fun. The restaurant has good value food and great coffee. So much to see in the grounds. Do not miss a visit to Oakfield.

John Hayes

21/08/2021 – Google

Get Your Season Pass

If you visit more than a couple of times a year, this is the best pass you can get. Visit as many times as you like.