This historic landscape is the home of a unique herd of white feral cattle.

The cattle have been enclosed in the walled Park, originally part of the

grounds of the adjacent castle, since medieval times.  Today, the cattle and

parkland are in the care of Chillingham Wild Cattle Association.

The interpretation strategy provides a clear framework for the Association

as they identify opportunities for developing the site.  Importantly, the strategy

has been prepared as part of an overall Parkland plan, led by landscape architect

Peter McGowan and supported by Natural England, which will aid decision-making in the restoration and day-to-day management of this significant site and its extraordinary bovine residents.  

The challenges of updating the interpretive displays at Knockan include the fact

that the original exhibition has been popular with visitors and highly regarded

amongst the interpretation community. With our initial visits taking place in the

depth of winter, it was clear from the start that this project was going to test us!

It is no mean feat to take complex geological principles and translate them into

engaging interpretive displays suitable for families, and we are continuing to

use a mix of humour, a strong visual style and hands-on interactives to give

visitors the tools to explore the site and appreciate the story of geological

upheaval that unfolds beneath their feet.