Upton Country Park is located on the outskirts of Poole and consists of 140 acres of park land. Open 7 days a week throughout the year with a range of activities, including woodland trails, cycle paths and an immaculately maintained botanical garden, this fantastic family attraction is the ideal place to spend a couple of hours exploring the great outdoors. What’s more, it’s only 5-minutes’ drive from our Dorset holiday park, providing easy access to endless entertainment during your stay at South Lytchett Manor.

House and gardens

Upton house is a grade II listed Georgian mansion, with a rich and varied history. Once home to the Spurrier family, who earned their wealth through the fishing industry, the house now plays host to weddings, corporate events and parties. Throughout the year there are a number of open days, which give visitors a chance to peruse the house. For a small fee, a team of dedicated volunteers run guided tours of the ground floor, which give an insight into the history of the estate.

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The beautiful grounds are undoubtedly the highlight of many peoples visit to Upton Country Park. The walled gardens are a must see, especially in the summer months when the immaculately landscaped flower beds are in full bloom.  The carefully manicured lawns are great for a leisurely picnic and the perfect place to relax after a fun filled day of exploring. There’s even a dedicated lawn for ball games.

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Play

There are 10 timber structures situated at various locations throughout the park’s grounds, which provide a back to basics approach to play where little ones can let their imaginations run wild. The equipment is built from fallen trees and designed to blend seamlessly into the natural landscape along the play trail. Children will love the tree tower and the rope swing as well as the splash fountains, which are turned on in the warmer months.  Younger children can also play in the small soft play area in the on-site tea room.

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For older children and adults looking for an action-packed activity, there are guided Segway tours, which offer an adventurous way to explore the forest.

Food and Drink

Upton Country Park is the ideal place for a picnic, but there are a couple of food and drink options available, if you need to refuel.  The tea rooms provide a great selection of home-made cakes, sandwiches and coffees and there is also a kiosk selling drinks and ice creams.

Events

Each year there are a number of events that take place within the grounds of the country park, with something to suit all ages. From an open-air cinema, music events, outdoor yoga and a weekly park run, you’ll always find something exciting to try. In the school holidays there are some great themed children’s activities to try, which are guaranteed to put smiles on little ones faces and give the kids a day out to remember.

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Dog friendly

Dog owners will love the array of facilities available at Upton Country Park. There’s a large enclosed dog training area, where you can let your four-legged friend run free, safe in the knowledge they can’t run away or get lost. There are also miles upon miles of off lead walks you can follow through the woodland and along the shoreline of Poole harbour.

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