Over 4.5km of the longest miniature railway track in Ireland weaves its way through the trees, around the lakes and along the meadows, revealing many pleasing vistas throughout the park – both sculpture and nature. Tickets and departure times are available at the gate on arrival, in Buffers restaurant or in the ice cream truck. No booking is required except for group visits. The trip will take about 15 minutes.

Duchess of Difflin

Steam Engine Train Rides

One of three locomotives in Oakfield Park, The Duchess of Difflin steam engine, with her carriages in the traditional red and cream livery of the Wee Donegal is a nostalgic delight that runs on the last Sunday of each month in the season – Steam Sunday. This is a family attraction in Donegal like no other.

At least one of the two diesels run every other day, at least on the hour. The Earl of Oakfield blue diesel engine, delights children, Thomas the Tank Engine fans and train enthusiasts alike and the green locomotive, Bishop Twysden is the first full locomotive ever built in Donegal.

 

Adult Train Rides

Groups and Private Parties

The trains of Oakfield Park aren’t just for children. Visiting groups and private parties enjoy the park grounds aboard one of our trains as much as the children. Book a private group party at Oakfield Park for nearly any occasion.

The trains also form part of all our events here from Halloween events to Teddy Bears’ Picnics and the now nationally renowned Santa Express in Oakfield Park in December.

Entry & Train Charges

General Admission

Adults €9

Children €6

Under 3’s Free

Train Trip

Adults €7

Children €5

Under 3’s Free

Family Pass (Entry and a trip on the train)

1 Adult & 2 Children

€30 save €8

2 Adults & 1 Child

€35 save €8

2 Adults & 2 Children

€40 save €14

2 Adults & 3 Children

€45 save €20

Railway Information

Difflin Lake Railway

Duchess of Difflin

Earl of Oakfield

Bishop Twysden

Difflin Lake Railway

  • Architect
    A & E Wright, Belfast
  • Consultant
    Martin’s Models Garden Railways
  • Gauge
    15 inches
  • Length of Track
    4km (2.5 miles) including sidings
  • Rail
    Steel, S7, 14lb/yard
  • Minimum Radius
    65 ft. (22 metres)
  • Ruling Gradient
    1 in 30 straight, 1 in 45 curves
  • Sleepers
    Galvanised steel and treated softwood

Duchess of Difflin

  • Built By
    Exmoor Steam Railway Co.
  • Delivered
    February 2003
  • Overall Width
    45 inches (1.1 meters)
  • Length
    10 ft. (3.05 meters)
  • Height
    5 ft. 10 inches (1.8 meters)
  • Weight
    3.2 tonnes
  • Driving Wheels
    14 inch (355mm) diameter
  • Boiler Pressure
    150 lb./sq. in.

Earl of Oakfield

  • Built By
    Alan Keef Ltd.
  • Features
    Perkins 103.10 3-Cylinder diesel engine
  • Length
    8 ft. (2.4m)
  • Height
    6 ft. (1.8m)
  • Width
    4 ft. (1.2m)

Bishop Twysden

  • Built By
    James Duncan
  • Overall Width
    3 ft. (0.92 meters)
  • Length
    6 ft. 7 inches (2.0 meters)
  • Height
    6 ft. 2 inches (1.9 meters)
  • Weight
    2.0 tonnes
  • Driving Wheels
    12 inch (300mm) diameter

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.