Spend a Day in the Country at Almond Valley
Stretching over twenty acres alongside the River Almond, near Livingston, Almond Valley offers a superb venue for a family outing – 361 days of the year, rain or shine. Visitors to Almond Valley will have a host of activities to choose from, with something to appeal to every age group. History buffs will appreciate the fact that the 18th century buildings of the original Livingston Mill and farm have been restored and remain an integral part of the site, serving as the tearoom, indoor play areas and home to some of the farm’s smaller animals. More modern buildings house the reception, main museum and various display areas, with the railway station nearby where visitors can board the train for a ride on a narrow-gauge track.
Linked to the tearoom, Morag’s Meadow offers separate play areas for children under three years of age (Little Weeds), and children between the ages of 3 and 8 years (Vegetable Patch). Parents can accompany the under threes, but the Vegetable Patch is for children only, although adults remain responsible for supervising their children. Morag’s Meadow features padded play areas in the form of giant vegetables, tunnels with netting on the sides for safety, slides and climbing areas – in short, loads of fun for the little ones.
Farm animals – Highland cattle, sheep, goats, ponies, horses and ducks – a working water mill, and seasonal tractor rides are other features of this picturesque countryside venue. Crafts, games and other activities for children are organized for school holidays, while open playgrounds and pathways provide ample opportunity for letting off steam. Almond Valley is open from 10am to 5pm every day of the year except the 25th and 26th of December and 1st and 2nd of January. With many undercover activities, families can enjoy a day out whatever the weather. All buildings, except one small area of the Mill, can be accessed by visitors with impaired mobility, and all main paths at Almond Valley have surfaces suitable for buggies and wheelchairs. Picnic benches are located around the site and well-behaved dogs on leads are permitted.
