This August we finally bit the bullet, bought the £17 family ticket and headed in.

Compton Acres is one of the finest privately owned gardens in the South of England with a unique series of stunning gardens and a spectacular view of Poole Harbour, Brownsea Iasland and the Purbeck Hills beyond.

Once inside you follow a circular path route that takes you through the various gardens, from the splendid formal Italian  Gardens, through the sub Tropical link to the wooded pine valley, rock and water gardens and much more.  As you would imagine the gardens are all pretty, well maintained and very peaceful.

Our favourite was the Japanses garden, which is recognised as one of the best in Britain, with its Tea House draped in Japanese wisteria and the thatched summer house.

As for the children, well their highlights were the activity area which allowed them to climb and run around a bit – without disturbing other visitors – and the Bog Garden which was a great place to spot wildlife including butterflies, toads and many many dragonflies.  Compton Acres during the summer holidays had also put on a clue trail for the children to follow, which kept them occupied, if only for the promised sweet reward at the end.

Compton Acres is pathed all the way around and so is accessible for pushchairs and the disabled.

Most surprising moment was the fantastic view across the harbour from the cafe – up to that point you feel in an enclosed garden and then you suddenly look up and see across the Harbour to Brownsea Island and beyond.  The cafe had a good selection of sandwiches and cakes to accompany tea, but we just sat and appreciated the view.

We visited Compton Acres in the summer holidays but it is open all year round with colour and scent throughout and regular events held so check the website for more information.

There is also a Model Railway Exhibition that includes 1000 foot of scenic track attached to Compton Acres, although this does require extra admission (£1.50 for adults, £1 for children).

Location and accommodation

Compton Acres is close to Sandbanks, set between Bournemouth and Poole in Dorset.

• B&B and Guest House accommodation close by
• Self catering and cottage accommodation close by
• Holiday parks close by
• Holiday lodges close by

Summary

• Family fun: 4 stars
• Lenth of visit: Allow 2 hours

Find out more

Visit the Compton Acres website to find out more.