Facilities Within The Park
In 2011 a new play area opened on the site of the old farm animal enclosures. This facility is the second largest in Ayrshire, designed for use by adults, adolescents, and younger children. The area includes equipment designed specifically for the disabled. A sensory garden is part of the complex, and musical instruments are part of the entertainment.
Eglinton has a number of established walks in woodlands, around the loch or through the Clement Wilson Gardens. Picnic areas are provided, a Visitor Centre, several children's play areas, bird watching facilities, etc. Car parking is available, with an overflow or auxiliary 'grass' car park. A dedicated bus park has spaces for 5 coaches. Touring caravan stands are located near the Visitor Facility Block close to the main Events Field.
The Visitor Centre is the interpretation area and holds an exhibition on the history of the park with an emphasis on the Montgomery Clan, the Earls of Eglinton, and the famous Eglinton Tournament of 1839. It has a wide range of information leaflets and the gift shop is stocked with souvenirs, books, etc. The Tournament Cafe is close to the Visitor Centre.
Full wheelchair access exists and other facilities for disabled visitors are provided, such as a motorised hoist. A mobility scooter and wheelchair loan service operates from the Visitor Centre, with advance booking advisable. A Campsite Field is available for organised groups such as Scouts, Guides, etc. The visitor facility block has toilets, showers and a dayroom. A dedicated equestrian practise area exists in a bark covered arena. A charge is made for these facilities.
Eglinton Country Park is served by the North Ayrshire Council Ranger Service who offer a programme of guided walks (lasting from 1 to 2 hours) and events from Easter and July - October. The Visitor Centre is open from 10 am to 4 pm, 7 days a week from Easter to October. The park is open all year, dawn to dusk. The Acorn Club runs from October to March on Saturday mornings. Applications are taken from 1 September.
The park is a contact for pupils and teachers taking part in 'Eco Schools' projects and the rangers are also a contact for 'Scottish Outdoor Access', the code and further details of access to the countryside. Rangers are involved in provision Curriculum for Excellence activities.
Dogs are welcome as long as they are kept under control; the park is listed as 'Friendly Venue' by the Dog's Trust.
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