A superb artwork, “The Longsleeper“, was unveiled for the Spring 2015 re-opening of Oakfield Park, Raphoe, Co. Donegal. Commissioned by Sir Gerry & Lady Heather Robinson, it was designed by Locky Morris, the artist who created the imposing Polestar sculpture in Letterkenny.

Visual and structural acrobatics!

Structural Acrobatics

The Impressive Longsleeper

Longsleeper is made from 17 tons of Oak and appears to perform visual and structural acrobatics! This impressive sculpture has to be seen to be believed. Oakfield Park is renowned for its narrow-gauge train, and some of the inspiration for the piece comes from the railway.

The levers to alter the direction of the track at the ‘points’ were traditionally secured to a long sleeper. “This sense of movement and change is a central idea of the piece”, said Locky. Sited on the spiral mound, it reveals itself to train passengers dynamically as they journey around the mound.

Life-affirming structure emerging from the landscape

Perfect Alignment

No Two Views are the Same

No two views will be the same, as the straight oak sleepers appear to twist and turn, almost defying gravity. The spiral shape is reminiscent of the double helix of DNA, the genetic instructions for building all new life.

This birth, or rebirth theme, connects to the Biblical story of the awaking of the long sleepers at Ephesus. There is a strong sense of something new and life-affirming emerging from the landscape.

Longsleeper can also be clearly seen in perfect alignment with the middle of Oakfield Park House, 750 meters away, keeping with the Georgian design ethos and the gardens. Its circular aspect frames the distant Croaghan Hill, with the ancient burial mound, where it appears to curl up and spin towards the sky.

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

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