Oakfield Park is a beautifully restored 18th century Georgian deanery nestled in over 100 acres of lush parks and mature woodlands. You’ll quickly see why this gorgeous spot has been called “the secret jewel of Donegal”.
Oakfield Park was originally built in 1739 for the Dean of Raphoe Cathedral. It remained in use as a deanery until 1869, when it was bought by Thomas Butler Stoney, a prominent local figure who turned Oakfield Park into a country estate. It changed hands several more times until 1996, when new owners Sir Gerry and Lady Heather Robinson commissioned a major refurbishment and restoration of the house and grounds.
While the house itself is not open to the public, the stunning, manicured grounds are well worth a visit on their own. At every turn there are new things to discover. You can take a stroll around the traditional walled garden and kitchen garden then venture down to the lower gardens to take in the large lake, planted with reeds and wild flowers. The castle folly built on the opposite shore provides stunning views.
As you explore further, you’ll discover willow tunnels, oak circles, boardwalks, several heritage trees, secret gardens, sculptures and plenty of places to stop and enjoy a picnic.
The flower meadows, lakes and streams are entwined with some two and a half miles of narrow gauge railway. A scenic train ride, powered by the Duchess of Difflin steam engine or the diesel locomotive Earl of Oakfield, makes a fun, convenient way for you and your family to see all that Oakfield Park has to offer.
