5 Incredible Sculpture Parks in the UK
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There is a wide selection of sculpture parks to explore in the UK, particularly during the Autumn months when the weather is milder. If you’re a lover of art and culture, then we have you covered; here are some of our favourites, perfect for your next outdoor escape with friends and family.
Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Wakefield
Yorkshire Sculpture Park is one of the oldest sculpture parks in the UK, recently celebrating its 40th anniversary, and boasts an impressive 500-acre estate. A day trip to the park is ideal if you just want to get out, improve your well-being and explore the ever-changing artistic landscape. You can also bring your furry companions along with you, however, do note dogs are not permitted inside the facilities. We advise that you travel here by car, due to Wakefield Westgate, the nearest train station, being an 18-minute drive away on a good day.
Sainsbury Centre Sculpture Park, Norwich
Sainsbury Centre is an exceedingly popular university art gallery in Britain and is also the largest climate-controlled exhibition space in eastern England. The Sculpture Park sits on a 350-acre plot alongside the university. You can take a look inside the indoor gallery, with visual arts from the likes of Francis Bacon and Degas. The park makes for a momentous day out with the family, particularly if you are in dire need of a city break and want a change from your usual surroundings. For those who live along the coast, you can get from Lowestoft to Norwich in around 45 minutes.
The Sculpture Park, Churt, Surrey
In the tranquil and forested county of Surrey, you can find yet another remarkable sculpture park. It is worth a visit due to being one of the UK’s largest all-year-round parks, showcasing over 650 sculptures. Most of the sculptures are located outdoors over the 2-mile woodland trail, so make sure you wrap up warm in the winter. This serene location is a mere 30-minute drive from central Surrey or approximately a 2-hour train journey from central London.
The Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail, Gloucestershire
Hosting a unique collection of sculptures, all designed in a woodland setting, The Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail is perfect for those wanting an adventure. You can trail through the 4.5 miles of woodland that this sculpture park has to offer and along the way take in a plethora of unique and contemporary artwork. Relying on the generosity of its supporters, the trail is accessible to everyone and is a registered charity.
This magical visit has been open to the public for nearly 40 years and welcomes over 300,000 visitors a year. Dogs are welcome here along with extra biscuits and water to keep them happy and content during the day. The Dean Forest Railway is a 12-minute drive from the sculpture entrance and a walk to the entrance of the park will typically take an hour and a half.
Sculptures by the Lakes, Dorset
A 26-acre sculpture park in the middle of the Dorset Countryside, this adults-only attraction would be ideal for a couple’s day out or for a group of friends to enjoy the outdoors together.
Some of the UK’s top sculptors have produced pieces for this park, with a collection of different indoor and outdoor pieces to view. Meditation, well-being sessions, and discussions with health experts happen here throughout the year, due to its fabulous spot for art lovers. The location is just an 11-minute drive from Wool Railway Station.
