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Wildlife and a whole lot more

When you think of Scotland, and its native wildlife, stags and deer are probably the first animals to come to mind. There are few animals more iconic of Scotland. Images of these majestic creatures are often used in adverts and TV programmes about the country. So, it’s no surprise that there is a place dedicated to them – The Scottish Deer Centre.

Less than 20 minutes drive from Elderburn Lodges, the Scottish Deer Centre is open all year round with plenty for the whole family to see and do. When you stay with us, this is a must-do for a wonderful day out!

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Take a walk on the wild side

The Scottish Deer Centre is set in 55 acres of Fife countryside. And with animals to see, and play areas to enjoy, there’s so much to do that you’ll definitely need a day to get around it all. Originally opened as a working deer farm, it now focuses on conservation, education and research while offering visitors a day out into the bargain.

The centre has 12 species of deer, including two endangered species. It is also home to some animals that have disappeared from the Scottish countryside, like the Lynx and the Scottish Wildcat. Visitors also get to see the European Brown Bear and Scotland’s only wolf pack. Plus, there is the chance of spotting the very rare wild Haggis! A small, rough-haired creature, once native to the Scottish Highlands. Okay, so maybe not, but, it’s on their website, so you could play a joke on the kids and ask them to keep their eyes open for it!

There’s also Raptor World, a bird of prey collection that offers handling experiences and displays at the centre.

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Activities at the Scottish Deer Park

There are tours and feeding events throughout the day where visitors learn more about the animals at the park. During July and August, the park offers trailer rides around the park, taking in the rarest deer species and promoting their conservation.

Indoors there is a play area with climbing frames and a zip wire, while outdoors, there is a huge play fort. Perfect for the kids to let off a little steam. Or, if the kids feel the need for speed, there is a pedal kart track for them to race around.

If you’re looking for a little peace and tranquillity during your visit, there are some fabulous woodland walks through Witches Wood and Wolf Wood. Witches Wood also has a treetop walk through the canopy where you can view the moose herd from above.

Everything, except the trailer rides, is included in your entry fee.

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Feeling peckish?

When lunchtime comes around, visiting the Courtyard Coffee Shop will keep rumbling tums at bay. Cosy and inviting, they serve freshly ground coffee and a selection of teas. Their menu consists of delicious light meals, home baking, and a kid’s menu at reasonable prices.

And no day trip is complete without browsing for souvenirs. The gift shop has an array of quality souvenirs and memorabilia. From cuddly toys to gifts, local whisky and clothing from the Edinburgh Woollen Mill.

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Events and more

The Scottish Deer Centre isn’t a charity and survives on the income from visitors. To help them continue their conservation work, they have animal sponsorships available. The money helps with the animal’s upkeep, and, in return, you get your name on the animal’s enclosure, a soft toy, a photograph of the animal and a factsheet. You can find more information on sponsoring an animal on their Facebook page.

The Scottish Deer Park also hosts various events throughout the year to encourage visitors. One event they run is the Dino Digs for budding young palaeontologists to take part in. Fossil Hunters dig for hidden miniature dinosaur fossils in the newly-launched T-Rex digging site with prizes up for grabs. So when you book your stay with us, make sure you follow them on Facebook for the latest event news. Make sure the centre is on your to-do list when you come to stay with us!

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Testimonials

Just returned from a fantastic relaxing break at lodge 1 at Elderburn Lodges.
The lodge really is a home from home and the setup of the lodge is great for 2 couples having the lovely spacious shared central areas but the bedrooms are spaced well apart.
The lodge was spotless and well equipped and some of the little extras within the lodge were excellent.
The location is ideal for visiting St Andrews and the lovely Fife coast.
The visitors book within the lodge was full of reviews from returning customers and we would highly recommend these lodges and look forward to our next visit.

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