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A peaceful countryside retreat
Wimborne, Dorset, boasts some of the most enchanting scenery in the region. Nestled amidst rolling hills and lush countryside, this charming market town offers scenic views at every turn. The River Stour meanders gracefully through the landscape, its banks adorned with vibrant wildflowers and ancient trees. The historic architecture of Wimborne Minster, with its stunning twin towers, adds a timeless beauty to the town's skyline. As you explore the surrounding areas, you'll find a patchwork of verdant fields, quaint thatched cottages, and serene woodland trails, all contributing to the breath-taking beauty that defines Wimborne's countryside.
Over half the county is recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and situated adjacent to Merley Court is the Castleman Trailway, a renowned countryside cycling and walking route through East Dorset. One of Dorset’s most leisurely walking routes, the trailway is 16.5 miles long and follows the majority of the old Southampton to Dorchester railway line, with some parts suitable for wheelchair users.
Wimborne town boasts a high street full of charm and character. Its colourful blend of independent shops, cafés, and restaurants provides a delightful shopping and dining experience. Alongside this, the town ensures easy access to essential services such as supermarkets, banks, and pharmacies.
For those seeking leisure and entertainment, Wimborne has excellent recreational facilities. The Tivoli Theatre, a beloved local venue, regularly hosts live performances and cinema screenings, while the nearby sports centres and parks cater to fitness enthusiasts and those looking for outdoor activities.
In the nearby area, the local pub, The Willett Arms, is a short, scenic 15-minute walk from Merley Court. Accessible via the Castleman Trailway, this peaceful walking route starts right from the back of the park, offering a perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll or an active day out.
Additionally, other vital services such as dentists, doctors, and petrol stations are all within easy reach by car, ensuring that residents have everything they need close at hand for a comfortable and enjoyable lifestyle.
*Times quoted are approximate travel times by car.
Bournemouth and Poole, two gems on England’s south coast, offer an exciting array of activities and attractions that draw visitors year-round. Known for their stunning sandy beaches, both towns are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports like paddle boarding and sailing. Bournemouth’s iconic pier, bustling with arcades and eateries, provides a classic seaside experience, while its beautiful gardens and clifftop views make for relaxing strolls and scenic picnics. The area is also rich in cultural attractions, including the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC), which hosts major music and theatre events.
Poole, famous for Europe’s largest natural harbour, is a haven for boating enthusiasts, and Poole Museum offers insights into the region's maritime history. It is also the gateway to Brownsea Island, a nature reserve home to rare red squirrels and diverse wildlife. Visitors are drawn not only by the coastal beauty but by the vibrant nightlife, shopping, and family-friendly attractions, making Bournemouth and Poole top destinations to visit on the English coast.
Reconnect with nature and explore rare wildlife on this stunning island in Poole Harbour. Brownsea Island is a wildlife reserve, famous for its red squirrel population and offers the perfect escape for relaxation and exploration. As one of the last places in the UK where red squirrels thrive in the wild, it promises a day of excitement and discovery in a picturesque setting.
This wildlife haven invites you to enjoy peaceful strolls along the beach or through the woodlands. There's also a lagoon that shouldn't be missed and a Grade II listed Tudor Castle! Suitable for families with children too, there is also a natural play area, tree-climbing trails to burn off some energy and plenty of great picnic spots. Guided walks and tours are also free and take place every day.
Brownsea Island is only 10 miles away, and regular ferries run from Poole Harbour or Sandbanks.
The New Forest is renowned for its breath-taking heath landscapes, picturesque forest trails, and abundant free-roaming wildlife. You can encounter the resident New Forest ponies or, with a bit of luck, perhaps even spot some deer! In September, you're also likely to spy pigs! During pannage season, pigs roam freely to eat the fallen acorns. Once you experience the New Forest’s scenic landscapes, you won’t want to leave.
Just 12 miles from Merley Court, this idyllic destination offers not only beautiful woodlands to explore, but cobbled market towns and quaint villages, as well as 40 miles of charming coastline. Investigate some of the best attractions in the UK, including award-winning spas, gardens, theme parks, museums, and enjoy some of the finest food. Whether for a day trip or a longer stay, the New Forest promises unforgettable memories.
Our Dorset residential park embraces the woodland and open fields surrounding it, creating a tranquil space that residents can escape to when the hustle and bustle of city life becomes too much.