9.  Dunorlan Park, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent (June 2023)
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Dunorlan Park Tunbridge Wells

4.7
·3k reviews·Royal Tunbridge Wells, United Kingdom

A picturesque park with a boating lake, Grecian temple, and adventure playground, perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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9.  Dunorlan Park, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent (June 2023)

Dunorlan Park Tunbridge Wells

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A picturesque park with a boating lake, Grecian temple, and adventure playground, perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls.

4.7
(3k reviews)

"Dunorlan Park is an absolute delight — a proper slice of countryside heaven tucked right into Tunbridge Wells."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Tips

Parking is available for a fee, but it's free after 6 PM. Arrive early on weekends to guarantee a spot.

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Bring a picnic to enjoy the scenic spots! The cafe is nice, but a packed lunch is a great budget-friendly option.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boating Lake Adventure

Boating Lake Adventure

The central lake

Pedal your way across the serene lake, sharing the water with friendly ducks and geese. A quintessential park experience!

Grecian Temple Views

Grecian Temple Views

Overlooking the lake

Discover the elegant Grecian temple, offering picturesque views and a touch of historical charm.

Adventure Playground Fun

Adventure Playground Fun

Near the cafe

Kids will love the natural adventure playground, providing hours of active entertainment.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting on weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends and holidays see a surge in visitors, particularly for activities like pedal boating. Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

Park Perks & Practicalities

Dunorlan Park offers free entry, but parking has a fee (free after 6 PM). While the cafe is convenient, consider bringing your own picnic to save money and enjoy the scenic spots. Check event schedules for potential closures or special activities.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Spring & Summer weekends
Why
Boats open, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn/Winter walks
Why
Beautiful foliage, crisp air
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The best rated Wetherspoons in the UK! 🇺🇸 Who would go here?! 🍺 #Thatonecal #tunbridgewells #wetherspoons #calryan
@thatonecal
146.8K likes • 2.2M views

🚗 Parking Tips

Parking is available for a fee, but it's free after 6 PM. Arrive early on weekends to guarantee a spot. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Bring a picnic to enjoy the scenic spots! The cafe is nice, but a packed lunch is a great budget-friendly option. Reddit

Can you guess our Little Red Riding Hood? Comment the number you think it is!! #IntoTheWoods #TheTalentz #MusicalMagic #kent #sevenoaks #tunbridgewells #tonbridge #fypage #talentz #fup #fyp #Theatre
@thetalentz
141.1K likes • 6.5M views
Tunbridge Wells Harriers Park Run Takeover! . Last Saturday the harriers took to the beautiful Dunorlan Park to ‘run’ the weekly Park Run. A brilliant event as always, complete with pacers & cake!! . A massive thank you to all who volunteer at park run! . #tunbridgewellsharriers #tunbridgewells #dunorlanparktunbridgewells #dunorlanparkrun #runningclub #parkrunuk #parkrun #dogfriendlyrun #dogparkr...
tw_harriers
28 likes • 973 views

🦆 Duck Feeding Fun

The ducks and geese are a highlight! Bring some appropriate food (like peas or corn) to feed them. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. The paths are well-maintained but can be hilly. Instagram

☀️ An afternoon well spent at Dunorlan Park in Tunbridge Wells… one of our local favourites 💛 We scooted along the paths lined with beautiful flowers 🌸 Played on the natural adventure playground 🛝 Stopped for ice creams at the café 🍦 And the highlight… a half-hour @dunorlanparkboats pedalo ride out on the lake with ducks gliding alongside us 🦆✨ It’s such a peaceful place to spend the day… the...
ourfamilyadventures_uk
31 likes • 709 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Tips

Parking is available for a fee, but it's free after 6 PM. Arrive early on weekends to guarantee a spot. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Bring a picnic to enjoy the scenic spots! The cafe is nice, but a packed lunch is a great budget-friendly option. Reddit

🦆 Duck Feeding Fun

The ducks and geese are a highlight! Bring some appropriate food (like peas or corn) to feed them. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. The paths are well-maintained but can be hilly. Instagram

🚤 Boat Ride Bliss

Pedalo boat rides on the lake are a must-do! They're open during school holidays and weekends in spring/summer. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Dunorlan Park is widely praised as a beautiful, well-maintained green space offering a delightful mix of relaxation and activity. Visitors love the scenic lake, the opportunity for pedal boating, and the family-friendly atmosphere. While the park generally excels, a consistently mentioned drawback is the state of the sandpit, which has been described as hard and disappointing.

"Dunorlan Park is a lovely spot for a walk, really well kept, with plenty of space to relax. The lake is beautiful and there’s a nice mix of open fields and shaded paths. Great for families, picnics, or just some quiet time."

John Linuel Tenido

"I always have a lovely time in Dunorlan. The lap of the lake has some slopes, but there are plenty of benches on the way round. The park is always beautifully presented in all seasons, and it’s nice to see the ducks on the lake. Inevitably I always get my phone out to take a photo of a new plant I have spotted, or the general view."

Faye wilson

"Had never been there before but will definitely going back. A very large place to walk you dog 🐕 or go for a jog. Has a very nice cafe with large selection of food and drinks to choose from. My only complaint is that there should be a bigger sign out the front as I drove past it twice.
Well worth a visit."

M Walk358

What People Like

Beautifully kept grounds
Scenic lake and views
Pedalo boat rides

What People Dislike

Disappointing sandpit

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Dunorlan Park is easily accessible by car, with parking available on-site. For public transport, you can take a train to Tunbridge Wells station and then a bus or taxi to the park. Some TikToks mention specific bus routes, but checking local transport schedules is advised. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available at Dunorlan Park. There is a fee for parking, but it is free after 6 PM. Arriving early on busy days is recommended. Reddit

Cycling is a great way to reach Dunorlan Park, especially if you're local. There are paths within the park suitable for cycling, and it's a scenic route. Instagram

The park has a mix of paved paths and natural trails. While many areas are accessible, some slopes around the lake might be challenging. It's best to check with the park directly for specific accessibility information. Reddit

From London, you can take a train to Tunbridge Wells. From there, a taxi or local bus service can take you to Dunorlan Park. Some TikToks suggest longer journeys involving multiple transport changes. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Dunorlan Park is free! You can enjoy the beautiful grounds, walking paths, and playgrounds without any admission cost. Reddit

Dunorlan Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific facilities like the cafe or boat hire may have set operating hours, which can vary seasonally. TikTok

You do not need to book tickets to enter Dunorlan Park itself, as it's a public park. However, if you plan to participate in specific events or hire pedal boats, booking or purchasing tickets on the day might be necessary. Instagram

Yes, Dunorlan Park hosts various events throughout the year, including fireworks displays, park runs, and community gatherings. It's worth checking local listings or the park's social media for upcoming events. Instagram+2

The cafe in Dunorlan Park is typically open during park hours, but its operating schedule can change seasonally. It's advisable to check their current opening times before your visit, especially outside of peak summer months. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, have a picnic, visit the adventure playground, and rent pedal boats. The park also hosts events like fireworks and park runs. Instagram+2

Absolutely! Dunorlan Park is very family-friendly, with a great adventure playground, open spaces for running around, and the fun of feeding ducks and riding pedal boats. InstagramReddit

Yes, dogs are welcome in Dunorlan Park, but they must be kept on a lead around the lake and in designated areas. It's a fantastic spot for a dog walk. Instagram+1

A walk around the lake is a popular choice, offering lovely views. You can also explore the woodland trails or simply relax on the open fields. Comfortable shoes are recommended. InstagramReddit

Yes, Dunorlan Park offers many beautiful photo opportunities, from the lake and the Grecian temple to the seasonal foliage and wildlife. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located within Dunorlan Park that offers coffee, snacks, and light meals. It has indoor and outdoor seating. Reddit

The cafe typically serves coffee, ice cream, and some treats. While convenient, some visitors suggest it might not be the most extensive food offering, so a picnic is a good alternative. InstagramReddit+1

Picnicking is highly encouraged in Dunorlan Park! There are plenty of open spaces and benches perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors. Reddit

Yes, Tunbridge Wells town centre, a short distance from the park, offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes to suit different tastes and budgets. TikTok+1

Prices at the cafe are generally considered reasonable for a park cafe. However, bringing your own picnic can be a more budget-friendly option, especially for families. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lake with its reflections, the Grecian temple, the mature trees (especially in autumn), and the wildlife (ducks, geese) offer excellent photographic subjects. Reddit

Yes, the park's varied terrain, including the lake, open fields, and wooded areas, provides diverse opportunities for landscape photography throughout the seasons. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Events like fireworks displays or the soapbox challenge offer dynamic and exciting subjects for photography. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly beautiful. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial photography or filming, you may need to seek permission from the park authorities. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Dunorlan Park is a top-tier choice for families. The adventure playground is a major hit, offering plenty of space for kids to burn energy. Don't miss the chance to feed the ducks and, if the season is right, take a pedalo boat ride on the lake – it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! InstagramReddit

Consider packing a picnic to make the most of the beautiful open spaces and save on costs. While there's a cafe, a picnic allows for a more relaxed and budget-friendly experience. The park's accessibility and free entry make it an easy and enjoyable outing for all.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Strollers & Nature Lovers

For those seeking tranquility, Dunorlan Park offers a peaceful escape. The lap of the lake provides a gentle, scenic walk with numerous benches to pause and enjoy the views. The mix of open fields and shaded paths caters to different preferences, and the park's well-maintained grounds ensure a pleasant experience year-round. Reddit

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the wildlife, particularly the ducks and geese, and the opportunity to spot various plants. The park's historical elements, like the Grecian temple, add an interesting dimension to a quiet exploration.

🐶 Dog Owners

Dunorlan Park is a dog-friendly haven! Your canine companions will love the wide open spaces and woodland trails for exploring. Remember to keep dogs on a lead around the lake and in designated areas to ensure the safety of wildlife and other visitors. Instagram+1

It's a perfect spot for a refreshing walk, offering beautiful scenery for both you and your furry friend. The park's natural beauty makes it an enjoyable outing for the whole family, including the four-legged members.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Dunorlan Park's Lake and Boating

The heart of Dunorlan Park is its expansive boating lake, a focal point for visitors of all ages. During spring and summer holidays, as well as weekends, the park offers pedal boat hire, allowing you to glide across the water and enjoy the scenic surroundings from a unique perspective. Sharing the lake with the resident ducks and geese adds to the charm, and many visitors find this activity incredibly relaxing and enjoyable. InstagramReddit+1

While the lake is a major draw, the surrounding area is equally captivating. The paths around the lake are well-maintained, offering a pleasant route for a stroll or a more brisk walk. Benches are strategically placed, providing ample opportunities to rest and soak in the views. For families, the chance to feed the ducks is often a highlight, creating memorable moments for children. Reddit

It's worth noting that while the lake area is beautiful, the sandpit in the park has been mentioned as a point of disappointment by some visitors, being described as 'rock solid' and more like concrete. However, the overwhelming sentiment is that the boating and the general beauty of the lake area more than compensate for this minor drawback. Reddit

Family Fun and Activities

Dunorlan Park is a fantastic destination for families, offering a variety of activities to keep children entertained. The natural adventure playground is a significant draw, providing a space for kids to climb, slide, and explore. This, combined with the open green spaces, makes it ideal for energetic youngsters to run around and play freely. Instagram

Beyond the playground, the park's natural environment offers further engagement. Feeding the ducks and geese on the lake is a classic family activity that children often adore. The pedal boats on the lake also provide a fun and interactive experience, turning a simple park visit into a mini-adventure. InstagramReddit

For those planning a family outing, bringing a picnic is highly recommended. It allows for a relaxed meal amidst the beautiful surroundings and can be more cost-effective than relying solely on the park's cafe. The park also hosts family-friendly events, such as picnics and games, adding another layer of enjoyment. InstagramReddit

Seasonal Beauty and Photography

Dunorlan Park transforms with the seasons, offering a picturesque backdrop for visitors and photographers alike. In spring and summer, the park bursts with vibrant colours, with blooming flowers and lush greenery. The lake reflects the clear blue skies, and the Grecian temple stands as an elegant feature against the verdant landscape. InstagramReddit

Autumn brings a dramatic shift, with the leaves turning to shades of red, orange, and gold. This creates a stunning visual spectacle, making it a prime time for landscape photography and leisurely walks amidst the colourful foliage. Even in winter, the park retains its charm, offering crisp air and serene views, perfect for a peaceful stroll. Instagram+1

Photographers will find numerous opportunities throughout the park. The reflections on the lake, the architectural beauty of the Grecian temple, and the diverse flora and fauna provide endless subjects. Early mornings and late afternoons, during the 'golden hour,' often yield the most dramatic and beautiful lighting conditions for capturing the park's essence. Reddit

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