Upton Glen Park, Dorset

Residential Park (find out more here)

Description

Set in a valley leading to Osmington Mills and the sea, Upton Glen is the ideal location for discerning people seeking the tranquillity of a quintessential Dorset hamlet, surrounded by some of  England’s most beautiful countryside with the famous Jurassic coast a short walk away.

Seclusion without isolation is offered by Upton Glen’s unique location and the long approach driveway enhances the sense of security and privacy. Despite being well away from main roads, Dorset’s myriad of renowned attractions is within easy reach, as are the more usual day-to-day amenities.

Upton Glen local amenities

The nearby village of Osmington, with its picturesque thatched cottages and narrow lanes, has a church, a pub, a farm shop and a village hall. Replacing the original ‘wooden hut’ this modern facility is the venue for, amongst other things, an art group, WI meetings, whist drives, an archery club, short mat bowls and yoga classes.

The Smugglers’ Inn, a short walk from the park, offers an excellent menu, cask ales and its interesting history is depicted in the many pictures adorning its walls.

A nearby riding stable caters for those who enjoy equestrian pursuits. Coarse fishing is possible in our own lake.

Further afield from Upton Glen

Upton Glen is the perfect starting point to explore the nearby coastline which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the first natural site in England to receive this accolade.

The surrounding countryside is equally impressive, and has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – and all of this literally on your doorstep.

Sea-related activities are extensively catered for in the area with opportunities to enjoy sailing, fishing, scuba-diving, etc. Dorset Wildlife Trust, as well as managing the numerous reserves in the county, organise events on a regular basis and would welcome your involvement.

Bird-watchers have the choice of two RSPB reserves in Weymouth providing year-round interest. Abbotsbury Swannery and Brownsea Island are unique enough to merit regular visits.

The many gardens in the area open to the public will provide inspiration as well as many hours of pleasure throughout the changing seasons.

Castles and country houses abound and will keep the historically-minded enthralled and provide an interesting retreat for those days when the notably mild Dorset climate is less agreeable for outdoor pursuits.

For those who require the occasional ‘retail therapy,’ there is the unique undercover shopping complex of Brewers Quay in Weymouth with over twenty high-class retail outlets together with cafés, bars and bistros.

Dorchester – Casterbridge to Thomas Hardy fans – is the county town of Dorset, famous (or infamous) for the trial of the Tolpuddle Martyrs. The courtroom is now open to the public and the town also hosts to the famous Dinosaur and Tutankhamun exhibitions and the only museum outside China to feature exclusively the Terracotta Warriors of Xian. A thriving market takes place every Wednesday.

A short distance from the town is the world-famous Maiden Castle – an Iron Age fort with an absorbing history and stunning views from its ramparts.

Also in the area is Hardy’s Monument – not the Hardy of literary fame but in honour of the captain of HMS Victory serving under Admiral Lord Nelson (a fact that surprises some of the monument’s many visitors).

The more cosmopolitan towns of Weymouth, Poole and Bournemouth provide a wide choice of restaurants, theatres and clubs. Inland the market towns of Sherborne and Shaftesbury provide a

quieter venue and a select range of restaurants and shops. Nearby Bridport is another town to carry on the tradition of a street market, with bargains available every Saturday.

Despite its location in such a popular tourist area, Upton Glen offers a truly idyllic and unique ‘bolt-hole’ from which to explore all that Dorset has to offer. Returning at the end of the day to

this oasis of tranquillity, leaving the crowds far behind, is a pleasure most will only dream of.

Address

Upton Glen Park
Ringstead
Dorchester
Dorset
DT2 8NE