Dino Park at Hetland: A Prehistoric Adventure in Dumfries
Explore life-sized dinosaurs and interactive fossil digs at Dumfries’ family-friendly Dino Park nestled in Hetland Garden Centre.
Dino Park at Hetland, nestled within Hetland Garden Centre in Carrutherstown near Dumfries, offers a captivating dinosaur-themed experience for families and dinosaur enthusiasts. Open seasonally from late March to early November, the park features life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, interactive fossil digs, a Dino Mine, and a Dino Den with storytelling and educational exhibits. With indoor and outdoor play areas, a café, and a gift shop, it’s a perfect day out blending education, adventure, and fun in a scenic garden centre setting.
A brief summary to Dino Park at Hetland
- Hetland Garden Centre, Dumfries, Carrutherstown, DG1 4JX, GB
- +441387840060
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day for a quieter experience and better photo opportunities with the animatronic dinosaurs.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park.
- Check the weather forecast before visiting, as many attractions are outdoors.
- Don’t miss the Dino Shop for unique dinosaur-themed souvenirs to take home.
- Plan to spend at least half a day to fully explore all the exhibits and play areas.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Car
From Dumfries town centre, drive northeast on the A75 towards Carrutherstown for about 5 miles. Take the B724 exit to Carrutherstown and follow signs to Hetland Garden Centre. On-site parking is available. The journey typically takes 15–20 minutes. Parking is free but can be busy on weekends and holidays.
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By Public Transport
Take a train to Dumfries station from major cities such as Glasgow or Edinburgh. From Dumfries station, catch the Stagecoach 246 bus towards Carrutherstown. Bus services run several times daily but check schedules in advance. From the bus stop in Carrutherstown, it is a 10-minute walk to Hetland Garden Centre and Dino Park.
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By Taxi
Taxis are available outside Dumfries train station and provide a direct route to Hetland Garden Centre, taking approximately 15 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares around £15–£20. This is a convenient option for groups or families with young children.
Dino Park at Hetland location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Dino Park at Hetland
Immersive Dinosaur Experience for All Ages
Dino Park at Hetland invites visitors to step back approximately 150 million years to the age of dinosaurs. The park’s centerpiece is its collection of life-sized animatronic dinosaurs that bring prehistoric giants to life in a lush garden centre environment. Visitors can explore the Dino Mine, a themed area simulating a volcanic landscape, and the Dino Den, where engaging storytelling and fascinating dinosaur facts are shared by park rangers. The park’s interactive Dino Dig lets children and adults alike search for fossils and bones beneath the sand, creating a hands-on learning experience that combines fun and education.Family-Friendly Activities and Facilities
Designed with families in mind, Dino Park offers a variety of attractions suitable for children from toddlers to pre-teens. Alongside the dinosaur exhibits, there is a soft play area and a bouncy dinosaur for energetic play. The park provides an all-day pass, allowing visitors to come and go throughout the day, making it flexible for families with young children. Facilities include a café serving home-baked treats, picnic areas scattered throughout the park, and a gift shop stocked with unique dinosaur-themed souvenirs. Ample parking and accessible pathways ensure convenience for all visitors.Seasonal Operation and Practical Details
Dino Park operates seasonally from late March through early November, open seven days a week from 9am to 5pm, with last admission at 4pm. The park closes during the winter months, reopening in spring to welcome new visitors. Located within Hetland Garden Centre, the park benefits from the garden centre’s amenities, including restrooms, a restaurant, and a well-stocked plant and gift shop. The garden centre itself is known for its quality plants and welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the overall visitor experience.Setting and Surroundings
Situated in the village of Carrutherstown, just east of Dumfries, Dino Park is set amidst the scenic Dumfries and Galloway countryside. The garden centre location provides a tranquil and green backdrop, blending horticultural beauty with prehistoric adventure. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful ambience of the garden centre alongside the thrill of the dinosaur exhibits, making it a unique hybrid attraction that appeals to nature lovers and families alike.Educational and Entertainment Value
Dino Park balances entertainment with education, offering storytelling sessions, fossil hunts, and informative displays that spark curiosity about natural history and paleontology. The park’s staff engage visitors with tales and facts about dinosaurs, making learning accessible and enjoyable for children. This educational focus complements the play areas and interactive exhibits, ensuring a rich experience that entertains while it informs.Community and Visitor Engagement
As part of the Caulders Garden Centres group, Hetland Garden Centre and Dino Park benefit from strong local management and a commitment to quality service. The park is a popular destination for families in the region and welcomes visitors with a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Seasonal events and activities add variety to the visitor experience, encouraging repeat visits and community involvement.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Little Dalton Kirk
2.6 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Little Dalton Kirk, a medieval parish church nestled in tranquil Scottish countryside near Lockerbie.
Isle Tower
7.5 km
Explore Isle Tower, a serene 17th-century Scottish tower house ruin guarding historic routes near Dumfries in picturesque Dumfries and Galloway.
Wardlaw Hillfort
8.9 km
Explore the ancient moated triangular hillfort near Dumfries with panoramic views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Kingdom Scotland
11.1 km
Discover tranquility at Kingdom Scotland, a serene religious institution in Dumfries that invites spiritual reflection and community connection.
Dumfries
12.7 km
Historic and accessible Dumfries Railway Station connects Scotland’s southwest with modern amenities and rich heritage.
Dumfries Historic Buildings Trust
12.8 km
Discover the architectural heritage of Dumfries at the Dumfries Historic Buildings Trust, where history is preserved for future generations.
Queensberry Monument
12.9 km
An elegant 18th-century stone column in Dumfries honoring the 3rd Duke of Queensberry and the town’s noble heritage.
Dumfries Tours
15.2 km
Explore Dumfries with immersive tours that blend history, culture, and stunning landscapes for an unforgettable experience.
Waterloo Monument
15.7 km
A 150-foot stone tower on Peniel Heugh, built to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo and offering panoramic views across the Scottish Borders and Solway Firth.
Comyn's Tower
19.2 km
Explore Comyn's Tower near Dumfries, a medieval stronghold entwined with Scotland’s dramatic history and the legacy of the Comyn clan.
Fourmerkland Tower
20.6 km
Discover the tranquil charm and rich history of Fourmerkland Tower, a secluded 16th-century Scottish tower house near Dumfries.
Mossband Residential Park
22.9 km
Tranquil rural living with modern comforts and scenic views near Dumfries in the heart of Scotland’s countryside.
Welcome To England Sign
23.9 km
Experience the charm of England at the Welcome to England Sign in Gretna, where history and hospitality meet in picturesque surroundings.
Castle O'er Hill Fort
25.3 km
Explore the ancient Castle O'er Hill Fort in Langholm, an exceptional historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and rich Scottish heritage.
King Edward Monument
25.5 km
A solitary sandstone pillar on windswept Burgh Marsh marking the final resting place of King Edward I, the Hammer of the Scots.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ruthwell Church
3.9 km
Discover the ancient Ruthwell Cross inside Scotland’s oldest church, a masterpiece of Anglo-Saxon art and literature from the 8th century.
Brow Well
4.7 km
Discover Brow Well, the iron-rich healing spring where Robert Burns sought relief, set in tranquil Dumfries countryside near the Solway Firth.
Henry Duncan Savings Banks Museum
4.8 km
Discover the birthplace of the global savings bank movement in a charming historic cottage in rural Ruthwell.
Repentance Tower
5.9 km
Discover Repentance Tower, a historical landmark in Hoddom, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Scotland's rich past amidst serene landscapes.
WWT Caerlaverock
7.9 km
Discover Scotland’s premier wetland sanctuary where thousands of migratory birds create a spectacular natural show year-round.
Cruck Cottage
8.9 km
Step back in time at Cruck Cottage, Dumfries’ last authentic cruck-framed and thatched rural home, preserved to reveal Scotland’s historic countryside life.
Lochmaben Castle
9.0 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Lochmaben Castle, a medieval fortress steeped in Scottish history and set beside serene Castle Loch.
Old Caerlaverock Castle
9.5 km
Explore Scotland’s only triangular castle, a moated medieval fortress steeped in centuries of border warfare and Maxwell family history.
Caerlaverock Castle
9.6 km
Explore Scotland’s unique triangular medieval fortress with a moat, twin towers, rich history, and scenic nature reserve near Dumfries.
The National Trust for Scotland - Thomas Carlyle's Birthplace
10.0 km
Explore the authentic childhood home of Thomas Carlyle, a cornerstone of Victorian literature and Scottish heritage, preserved in the heart of Ecclefechan.
Dumfries & Galloway Aviation Museum
11.5 km
Explore Scotland’s aviation heritage at the historic Dumfries & Galloway Aviation Museum, home to iconic aircraft and immersive WWII exhibits.
Lockerbie Road off-road driving course
11.9 km
Experience the thrill of off-road driving on varied terrain with expert guidance at Dumfries’ premier off-road course.
Kingholm Quay Harbour
12.1 km
Historic riverside quay on the River Nith blending Dumfries’ maritime heritage with tranquil scenic charm.
Castledykes Park
12.1 km
Discover Dumfries’ historic green heart where medieval heritage meets tranquil gardens and vibrant wildlife habitats.
Burns Mausoleum
12.5 km
Final resting place of Robert Burns in a historic Dumfries churchyard, surrounded by centuries of Scottish stories and monuments.
Essential places to dine
Copper Beech Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience traditional Scottish hospitality and hearty cuisine in the cozy Copper Beech Restaurant at Hetland Hall Hotel, Dumfries.
Hetland Hall Hotel
0.5 km
Elegant country house hotel near Dumfries offering spacious rooms, excellent dining, and tranquil rural charm.
Kinmount Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality, delicious locally inspired cuisine, and lively entertainment at Kinmount Restaurant in Carrutherstown.
The Boathouse Restaurant & Shop
10.7 km
Charming waterfront dining and shopping with fresh local fare and nautical ambiance in scenic Glencaple near Dumfries.
The Jolly Harvester Bar & Restaurant
10.7 km
A family-friendly pub and restaurant in Dumfries serving hearty meals with a welcoming atmosphere and outdoor fun for all ages.
Easterbrook Bistro, Bar & Spa
11.3 km
Modern tapas dining and spa relaxation in the heart of Dumfries’ historic Crichton campus.
Bankend Bar & Brasserie
11.4 km
Contemporary dining with seasonal, locally sourced dishes and scenic views at Dumfries’ stylish Bankend Bar & Brasserie.
The Hitching Post - DG1 2EQ
11.8 km
Casual American barbecue and grill in Dumfries with a standout gluten-free menu and hearty, authentic flavors.
Bruno's Italian Restaurant
12.1 km
Authentic Italian dining with warm hospitality and classic flavors in the heart of Dumfries.
The Swan - Kingholm Quay
12.1 km
A welcoming riverside pub in Dumfries offering hearty British fare, great beers, and a friendly atmosphere at Kingholm Quay.
Crumb
12.5 km
Modern dining meets local charm at Crumb, a welcoming Dumfries restaurant known for quality dishes and relaxed atmosphere.
The Station Cafe Dumfries
12.6 km
A friendly, affordable cafe nestled in Dumfries Railway Station, perfect for a comforting breakfast or coffee break on your travels.
The Lochar Inn
12.8 km
A friendly, lively pub and restaurant in Dumfries offering traditional fare, local charm, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Globe Inn Dumfries
12.8 km
Historic 17th-century pub and Michelin Guide dining in Dumfries, blending Robert Burns heritage with modern Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky collection.
Granary
12.8 km
A vibrant Dumfries pub blending cozy dining, lively weekend entertainment, and community spirit in a welcoming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Flower Pot Gift Shop
10.3 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and fine jewellery in a warm, family-run boutique nestled in the heart of Lockerbie’s High Street.
Vintage On The Nith
10.6 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and mid-century antiques in the scenic riverside village of Glencaple, Dumfries.
Handmade at Helen's
11.3 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local artistry at Handmade at Helen's, Dumfries’ charming Saturday-only craft shop in The Crichton.
Peel Centre
11.5 km
Dumfries’ premier shopping centre offering a wide range of major stores and convenient amenities in a lively retail environment.
Matalan
11.6 km
Affordable fashion and homeware for the whole family in the heart of Dumfries at The Peel Centre.
Lunar
12.2 km
Explore Lunar Gift Shop in Dumfries for unique gifts and local treasures that make perfect souvenirs from your Scottish adventure.
The Range, Dumfries
12.5 km
A versatile home and garden store in Dumfries offering extensive products for every lifestyle and living space.
Plum Boutique
12.7 km
Independent women-owned fashion boutique in Dumfries offering curated, sustainable wardrobe staples and seasonal styles with a personal touch.
Think Something Different
12.8 km
Discover unique gifts and specialty products at Think Something Different, Dumfries’ go-to shop for eclectic finds and friendly service.
Bonmarché
12.8 km
Affordable and stylish ladies' fashion in the heart of Dumfries, with sizes 10-28 and expert styling advice.
The Fragrance Shop
12.8 km
Discover affordable luxury perfumes and beauty essentials at The Fragrance Shop, Dumfries’ premier scent destination in the Lorebourne Centre.
Loreburne Shopping Centre
12.9 km
A vibrant indoor shopping destination in the heart of Dumfries, blending high street brands with local charm and convenient amenities.
Mountain Warehouse Dumfries
12.9 km
Your go-to store in Dumfries for quality outdoor clothing and gear at moderate prices, catering to adventurers of all ages and skill levels.
Flourish
12.9 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local art at Flourish, Dumfries’ vibrant gift shop and creative studio on High Street.
La Maison Home & Gifts
13.0 km
Discover unique homewares and gifts with a personal touch at La Maison, Dumfries’ boutique of curated elegance and local charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Bar
10.4 km
Cozy and friendly local bar in Lockerbie offering hearty home-cooked meals, good beer, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Five Arches
10.7 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Dumfries offering local brews, live music, and a cozy atmosphere for genuine Scottish hospitality.
Lockards Farm
11.5 km
A stylish and family-friendly pub in Dumfries offering classic British fare, extensive drinks, and a welcoming beer garden for all seasons.
The Pleuchie's Howff
12.0 km
A family-run Dumfries pub blending traditional Scottish charm with lively live music and a welcoming community vibe.
Greens Sports Bar
12.5 km
Lively sports bar in Dumfries with big screens, great drinks, pool tables, and a welcoming community vibe for fans and locals alike.
The Riverside Bar
12.5 km
A friendly riverside pub in Dumfries offering diverse craft beers, scenic views, and a relaxed atmosphere beside Dock Park.
The Normandy
12.5 km
A welcoming and relaxed pub in Dumfries known for friendly service and a cozy atmosphere.
Troqueer Arms
12.7 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Dumfries offering great drinks, live music, and authentic Scottish charm at an affordable price.
The Lantern
12.8 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming pub in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, live music, and a lively beer garden in a warm, traditional setting.
Dickies Bar
12.8 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and local craft beers in the cozy, lively setting of Dickies Bar in Dumfries.
The Queensberry
12.8 km
A bright, comfortable bar and hotel in central Dumfries offering relaxed Scottish hospitality and cozy accommodation.
The Barrel
12.8 km
A friendly, traditional pub in Dumfries offering quality pints and a lively, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Chancers Night Club
12.9 km
Experience Dumfries nightlife at Chancers Night Club, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
The Imperial
12.9 km
A friendly, fair-priced bar in the heart of Dumfries, perfect for relaxed socializing and local vibes.
The Stag Bar
12.9 km
A cozy, friendly pub in Dumfries’ town centre offering craft ales and a welcoming atmosphere near the historic Midsteeple.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Railway Social Club
12.5 km
A friendly, community-focused social club in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, lively events, and a welcoming atmosphere near the town centre.
Black Box Music Institute
34.2 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
34.3 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Club Britannia
34.6 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Secret Carlisle
34.9 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Square One
58.4 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
Base Nightclub
58.9 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
The Border Club
59.2 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Border Club, a friendly social hub in Hawick, Scotland, perfect for travelers seeking community spirit.
The loose moose
59.2 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
The Warehouse
59.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Warehouse in Penrith, offering themed parties, great music, and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing.
Penrith Conservative Club
59.5 km
Discover the vibrant community spirit and affordable fun at Penrith Conservative Club, a welcoming hub in the heart of Penrith.
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
62.2 km
Discover the charm of Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom, a delightful pub and restaurant offering local culinary delights in the heart of Ullswater.
The Fleece Selkirk Ltd
67.5 km
Discover the warmth and flavors of The Fleece Selkirk, your local bar and restaurant in the heart of Scotland's beautiful Borders region.
The Galloway Bar
68.2 km
Discover the charm of Wigtown at The Galloway Bar, where locals gather for great drinks and unforgettable experiences.
Union Club
68.5 km
A friendly, community-run social club with snooker and events, offering a welcoming and affordable night out in Innerleithen.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
- Educational
- Scenic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- LGBT Friendly
