Discover the gonks of gardenshillock!
Aberdeenshire’s magical storybook trail
Step into a storybook this autumn. Explore the Trail of Treats at The Gonks of Gardenshillock, where children can discover hidden Gonk homes, complete fun tasks, enjoy the play park, and finish their adventure with our famous toasted marshmallow smores.
Next event runs from 10th – 25th October 2026
The story behind the magic
Inspired by the storybooks by Samantha Annal, step into the magical world of The Gonks of Gardenshillock. Explore the enchanting storybook trail, discover the homes of 10 busy Gonks, complete fun interactive tasks and become part of the story yourself. A magical outdoor adventure for children who still believe in a little wonder.
A fun family experience
A truly interactive and magical day out.
Bringing The Gonks of life on a very special way for the whole family to enjoy.
Interactive Busy Jobs
Interactive Busy Jobs
Each Gonk has an important job to do. Can your little explorers help them complete their daily tasks?
Schools & Organised Groups
Schools & Organised Groups
Interested in visiting us as a group?
Café
Café
Join us in our café area for delicious snacks and a well-earned rest.
The gonks’ favourite reviews
Attention to detail was incredible
We’ve visited lots of children’s attractions over the years, but The Gonks of Gardenshillock felt genuinely different. The attention to detail was incredible and every little house had something new to discover. Our children were completely immersed in the story and loved completing all of the busy jobs along the trail. The wildflower meadow was beautiful, the play area was a huge hit and the complimentary strawberries were a lovely touch. What we loved most was that it encouraged imagination rather than screens and noise. It felt magical from start to finish and we’ll definitely be back.
Nicola S.
This place was amazing!
Such an imaginative walk through and loved all the wee details. Plenty to do on your way round and the park at the end was a big hit too. They even have their very own storybook for your little one to enjoy on their way round then take home to keep enjoying the magic. The bag of sweeties that were up for grabs if you found a wee spider (which was easy to do) was filled with a great variety and such a lovely extra for the kids. All the staff made the visit so enjoyable and it got high praise from 9yr old girl "this is the best one we've ever been to". Would definitely go back!
Grace B.
It really is magical
Had the most fantastic afternoon here. It really is magical. Very imaginative, very well designed and very educational too. Very well worth the trip and can thoroughly recommend. Staff friendly and helpful and it was nice to meet the author Samantha in person. Thank you for creating this.
Anon
Teddy bears picnic
I visited for the first time today with my 4 year old for a teddy bears picnic and there are no words for how beautiful it is here. The attention to detail is beyond belief, it's all so well thought out with so many little activities to for kids to do on your way round the little houses. You can truly see the love and care Samantha has put into Gardenshillock and it's absolutely paid off. Our teddy bears picnic today included our own little picnic basket full of delicious food for my son and I and we were so lucky to be the first picnic of the day. If definitely won't be our last visit, we're already excited to come back again for Halloween!
Laurel
Such a clever idea
I visited on Sunday with my 5 year old & 10m old daughters. This was most magical experience, my 5 year old was in her element! It’s such a clever idea, I was very surprised when I noticed this was on Aberdeen, but it definitely what Aberdeen needed. I can not wait to return. I have recommended everyone to go visit.
Emma
Imagination being fed
We had a amazing fun time here. We enjoyed reading the book as we went round and visited all the gonks houses and completed all the activities. My daughter didn't want to leave, I loved watching my daughter excitement and imagination being fed. All the task were well thought out and some great ideas to take and do at home. The staff were all so friendly and welcoming. We will definitely be back again and can't wait for the next book.
Emily