Friends of the Dean

It’s easy to get more involved with what’s going on at Dean Castle Country Park.

If you love being outdoors whatever the weather, learning new skills and doing practical work, then being a Friend of the Dean could be the volunteer role for you. It's a great opportunity to make a difference by keeping the Park looking great & encouraging wildlife to flourish.

The Winter programme of Friends activities will take place all over the Country park and we hope that you can lend us a hand – whether it’s with learning drystone dyking skills, removing invasive garden plants or maintaining our willow maze, your support and efforts will be much appreciated. The Friends meet at the main car park at the start of every session.

We want to keep you safe during any of our volunteering tasks. While the coronavirus pandemic continues, the number of volunteers that can take part in an activity will be limited to 4 households. We ask that you book your sessions with the Friends of the Dean in advance by telephoning 07469 406 348 or email Laura.McMeekin@eastayrshireleisure.com. If you have been shielding during the pandemic, it is still possible for you to volunteer with the Friends.

2021 Programme 

*The scheduled Jan sessions have been cancelled - the programme will now commence in Feb 2021. 

Sun 7 Feb - 1.30pm - 4pm  - Tree maintenance

Tues 23 Feb - 9.30am - 12noon - Willow cutting

Sun 7 March - 1.30pm - 4pm - Willow maze maintenance

Tues 30 March - 9.30am - 11.30am - Remove escaped garden plants at Boyd Wood

23^rd Feb- 7 March is Willow Maze fortnight! The Rangers will be concentrating particularly on cutting willow and making repairs to the willow maze – and any extra hands will be appreciated. *Extra Friends dates will follow.