Mugdock Country Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mugdock Country Park
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| Type | Country park |
| Location | East Dunbartonshire/Stirlingshire, Scotland |
| Nearest city | Glasgow |
| Area | 260 hectares (642 acres) |
| Status | Open |
Mugdock Country Park is a fun and interesting country park located in Scotland. It's about 10 miles (16 km) north of Glasgow, near a town called Milngavie. The park is quite large, covering an area of 260 hectares (640 acres). It's a great place to explore history, enjoy nature, and have an adventure!
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Exploring Mugdock's History
Mugdock Country Park is full of history, with old buildings and reminders of the past.
Ancient Castles and Ruins
The park is home to two very old castles. You can explore the remains of Mugdock Castle, which was built way back in the 14th century. It was once a strong fortress! There are also the ruins of Craigend Castle, which was built in the 1800s. This castle has a cool "Gothic Revival" style, which means it was designed to look like older, medieval buildings. It even used to be a zoo!
Wartime Reminders
During World War II, Mugdock Country Park played a part in defending the area. You can still see the remains of many anti-aircraft trenches in the park. These were dug to help protect against enemy planes flying over the nearby city of Glasgow.
Old Legal Sites
The park also has a "moot hill" and a "gallowhill." A moot hill was a place where important meetings and legal decisions were made long ago. A gallowhill was where punishments were carried out. These sites are historical reminders of a time when local lords had special legal powers.
Fun Activities and Nature
Mugdock Country Park is not just about history; it's also a fantastic place for outdoor activities and enjoying nature.
Music and Events
The park is famous for hosting the Mugstock Music Festival. This is a lively event where different bands and performers come to play music. It's a great way to enjoy the park's atmosphere with friends and family.
Walking and Cycling Trails
If you love walking or cycling, Mugdock Country Park has many popular routes. You can follow paths along the Allander Water river, around Mugdock Loch (a lake), and through Drumclog Muir. These trails offer beautiful views and a chance to see local wildlife.
Visitor Facilities
When you visit, you'll find a helpful visitor centre and a cafe. These are located in the old stable block of Craigend Castle. There's also a garden centre and a restaurant in the park's old walled garden, perfect for a snack or a meal. The park is looked after by the Mugdock and East Dunbartonshire Countryside Ranger Service, who help keep it beautiful and safe.
Nearby Attractions
The West Highland Way, a famous long-distance walking path, goes through parts of the park. This path stretches all the way from Milngavie to Fort William. Close to the park, you can also find the Milngavie water treatment works, which is another interesting place for a walk and connects to the park via Drumclog Moor.
