Clare Castle Country Park

Situated to the south of the picturesque, historic town of Clare, just two minutes' walk from the town centre, Clare Castle Country Park is a beautiful quiet area to relax, play, get close to nature and learn about Clare's fascinating history.

The park contains the remains of the 13th Century stone castle keep set upon its 70ft high motte overlooking the town, as well as its inner and outer baileys which are ideal areas for recreation and picnics. The inner bailey also contains the former Clare railway station and the goods yard, which operated for over 100 years, with the goods shed now housing displays and a railway goods van on a stretch of track. A 'history trail' reveals the park's secrets to visitors.

 

Away from the open green areas visitors can find the footpath through the trees and along the banks of the river Stour. Here can be viewed the variety of trees and plant life, and information boards show the various birds and water life which can be seen along the waters' edge.

A nature trail takes in the River Stour and the Railway Walk, as well as other areas of the park. Walkers may wish to continue along the railway walk from the heart of the park into the wider farming landscape, or take in the Clare Circular Walk through the town. The more hardy walkers may wish to follow the Stour Valley Path, or the Bury to Clare Walk.

The Visitor Centre, situated next to the car park, contains displays on the history of the castle, the railway and the natural environment.