The Gonks of Gardenshillock Storybook Trail
Aberdeen, AberdeenshireAbout The Gonks of Gardenshillock Storybook Trail
The Gonks of Gardenshillock Storybook Trail
Step into a magical world where imagination blooms and nature flourishes—the Gonks of Gardenshillock Storybook Trail. Based on the enchanting children’s book The Gonks of Gardenshillock, written and illustrated by local author Samantha Annal, this trail brings the whimsical world of the gonks to life right in the heart of Fintray’s picturesque hills. A place where nature and fantasy meet, the storybook has been transformed into an interactive experience, allowing children and families to explore the homes of their favorite gonk characters while engaging in fun tasks and solving puzzles along the way.
The gonks, who call the hills of Fintray their home, are friendly, curious little creatures with big hearts, and their adventures are now yours to discover. As you wander the seasonal trail, you’ll visit the unique homes of these delightful characters, hidden amongst the wildflower meadows. These gonks, with their clever ways and endearing personalities, need your help to complete daily tasks like gathering food, fixing things around their homes, and finding hidden treasures. Each puzzle you solve brings you closer to unraveling the story while keeping young adventurers excited and engaged.
The beauty of the wildflower meadow is something to behold. As you walk through this vibrant and colorful landscape, you’ll be surrounded by a kaleidoscope of wildflowers that sway in the breeze, creating a peaceful and captivating atmosphere. The new forest, lovingly planted by the gonks themselves, offers an even more immersive experience, with its tall trees and fragrant scents filling the air. The combination of these natural settings creates the perfect backdrop for exploring and discovering the magic that lives here.
The trail is open seasonally for a themed adventure. Easter is Bunny Boot Camp, Summer is our wildflower meadow, Halloween is our Trail of Treats and Christmas is The Magical Christmas Mail Trail!
For the younger adventurers, there’s plenty of excitement at the play park. After working hard to help the gonks, children can burn off their energy with swings, slides, and underground tunnels, all set within the natural surroundings. The play park offers the perfect opportunity for children to unwind and enjoy the outdoors, all while staying connected to the storybook magic they’ve just experienced.
Throughout the year, we host visitor houses for special guests who come to visit during different seasons. These seasonal homes provide a wonderful opportunity for guests to experience the gonks' ever-changing world as the landscape shifts with the seasons. Whether it’s spring, with its new flowers and fresh growth, or autumn, with its golden leaves and cozy atmosphere, each season offers its own magic and charm. These guest houses add an extra layer of whimsy and surprise, making every visit a new adventure.
No visit is complete without a stop at our gift shop and coffee spot. After your adventure, unwind with a warm drink and a delicious snack at the sheltered seating area, perfect for relaxing and reflecting on the day’s experiences. The gift shop is a treasure trove of delightful souvenirs, from storybooks to handmade gonk figurines, so you can take a piece of the magic home with you. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift or a personal keepsake, there’s something special for everyone.
At The Gonks of Gardenshillock Storybook Trail, every visit is an adventure in a world where stories come alive. Whether you’re solving puzzles, exploring the beauty of the wildflower meadows, or enjoying the play park, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Bring your loved ones, immerse yourself in the magic of the gonks, and experience a day filled with laughter, discovery, and wonder.
So, come along and help the gonks with their daily tasks, solve puzzles, explore hidden homes, and create lasting memories on the trail. This is a place where families can escape the ordinary and enter a world filled with fantasy, fun, and natural beauty. Let your imagination run wild—there’s so much to discover, and it all begins at The Gonks of Gardenshillock Storybook Trail!
Fun, interactive adventure with nature, puzzles, play, and storybook magic!
Embark on a Magical Journey and
Step into the enchanting world of The Gonks of Gardenshillock—a delightful storybook trail based on the beloved children’s book by Samantha Annal.
Wander through beautiful our meadow and discover the charming homes of your favourite gonk characters.
Open for 4 seasonal trails (Easter,summer,October and Christmas) falling into the Aberdeenshire School Holidays.
Children can solve fun puzzles and complete exciting tasks along the trail before letting off steam at our fabulous play park.
Wrap up your magical day with a tasty treat and a refreshing drink from our cosy coffee spot—perfect for parents and little adventurers alike.
Whimsical folklore tours through magical gardens and gnome-filled tales
The Gonks of Gardenshillock offers a truly unique and immersive experience that combines the magic of storytelling with the beauty of nature. Based on the beloved children’s book by Samantha Annal, this enchanting adventure invites visitors to explore a whimsical storybook trail filled with vibrant wildflower meadows during our summer months and delightful gonk character homes. For Halloween and Christmas our trail is lit to delight all ages for an visual exploration full of hands on tasks!
What sets this attraction apart is its perfect blend of outdoor exploration, interactive fun, and family-friendly activities. As families meander through the meadows, they can solve puzzles and complete tasks that bring the story to life, making every step a new adventure.
After exploring, children can burn off energy at the play park, while parents relax and enjoy a snack or drink at the cozy coffee spot. This seamless combination of outdoor play, storytelling, and relaxation ensures there’s something for everyone, making it the ideal destination for a family day out.
Whether you're a fan of whimsical tales or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, Gonks of Gardenshillock offers a memorable, heartwarming experience that will stay with visitors long after they.
Solving puzzles, discovering characters and exploring magical meadow play areas!
Facilities
Toilets
Gift Shop
Onsite Parking
Accessible Toilets
Baby Changing
Food Available
Wheelchair Friendly
Pushchair Friendly
Card Payments Accepted
Opening Times
- Monday, 09:30 - 16:00
- Tuesday, 09:30 - 16:00
- Wednesday, 09:30 - 16:00
- Thursday, 09:30 - 16:00
- Friday, 09:30 - 16:00
- Saturday, 09:30 - 16:00
- Sunday, 09:30 - 16:00
Our Trail is Open Seasonally! Please check our website for the most up to date Trail Opening Dates/Times
Easter Bunny Boot Camp Trail
9.30am - 4pm (last entry 2.30pm)
28th March - 5th April 2026
TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED PRIOR TO ARRIVAL.
Pricing & Tickets
- Child (0-12) : £13.95
- Adult (13-18+) : £3
All participants require a ticket. Infants and babies non walking in a sling or buggy go free with a fee paying child entry. All children walking around require a ticket.
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to The Gonks of Gardenshillock Storybook Trail by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 1 - 2 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
Our menu changes seasonally however for Halloween we have treats like hot dogs, crumble and dirt cups! Hot chocolates, traybakes and other goodies.
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Public Transport
Contact Details
The Steading
Gardenshillock
Fintray
Aberdeen
Aberdeenshire
AB21 0RL
Scotland
w3w: perky.chosen.fearfully
Tel: 07564708124
Visit WebsiteTransport Information
No Public transport options to reach our attraction. Closest village bus would be newmachar but then would required a car journey to the attraction
Verification & Last Updated
Verified Status:
This attraction has been claimed and verified. All information has been recently checked.
Last Updated: 10:02 10/01/2026
The Gonks of Gardenshillock Storybook Trail Reviews
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