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What's the attraction?
An industrial heritage park with plenty of footpaths, woods, reservoirs, a museum and remains of Basingwerk Abbey. The valley was once home to thriving cotton mills - supplying Queen Victoria - and later brass and copper factories, all water-powered.
What's on offer?
The museum has displays of farming equipment and animals, a Victorian school and play area. It also hosts events such as campfire cooking sessions for children in the holidays.
How did you get there?
From Abergele we took the A55 to Holywell then followed signs for the town centre before following signs for the Greenfield Valley B5121
Click to launch Google MapHow long did you stay?
We arrived about 9am and stayed till after 1pm. You could make it a longer day, with more of the park to explore.
Did you take a brolly?
No, it was a really bright day. However, you do need a dry day to make the most of what's on offer.
What did you do there?
Because the museum was not open when we arrived we walked up towards the top of the valley: there are old industrial buildings, with bilingual information boards.
The reservoirs were beautiful - everywhere was green and peaceful, and also full of hungry ducks and swans, which we fed. There is also a Sculpture trail, and Llio and Morgan enjoyed climbing over the three huge pigs carved out of Welsh oak.
We then visited the Museum and Farm Heritage park. Historical buildings which might have been lost have been moved here. There is a very informal feel and all the information is bilingual. We were made very welcome by the friendly receptionist.
At the farm the children were able to help feed the goats. Most animals were very tame and used to people - Morgan was astounded when a hen let him stroke her.
We visited the Victorian School, which is set up with classrooms and some information. They arrange days for school parties who can get a taste of a Victorian lesson.
We then went to the playground which has a good selection of equipment to suit most age ranges.
How much did it cost you?
You can visit the valley for free, to get into the museum and farm is £3.20 adult and £1.95 for children: there's a family deal for £9.40.
How about food and drink?
Just across from the museum entrance is Basingwerk Tearooms which has a really nice outdoor area and stunning views of the abbey. It does snacks and meals (cake about £1.80 and drinks reasonably priced).
Are there any shops?
The museum has a gift shop with reasonably priced trinkets that would appeal to most children. It also had information on local attractions and walks.
Is it ok/safe for kids?
On the whole it is great with plenty of different things to see and do. We were disappointed with the indoor playing area in the museum, it has a built-in sand pit which is a large hole in the centre of the room with no fence or barrier (about 2ft deep) with about 1cm of sand in it. There were clean but basic toilets with baby changing facilities.
Can people with disabilities get around?
We took our all-terrain buggy but a normal one would have been ok. Some of the woodland paths would be very difficult for a wheelchair but the main one is fine. The valley paths are a haven for dog walkers: not all are considerate about clearing up mess, watch out!
Most of the museum is accessible, but there are uneven floors in parts.
What was the best bit?
Making the most of the last of the summer in the fresh air, in a very relaxed environment.
Opening times?
The park and walks, plus abbey remains, are open all year. The museum and farm is open until Nov 2, 10am-4.30pm. It re-opens next spring. More details on 01352 714172 or http://www.greenfieldvalley.com/
the valley is a great day out i often take my liltle cuzinz it is great fun and a good day out. if you have a season pass it is great to go in any time and book places for activities so you dont miss out and it is a lot cheaper then paying all the time. it is great fun for all the family and saff for all.…
comment by holly jones - 05/09/2008 10:48