Upton Country Park is celebrating 50 years since it first opened to the public in 1976.
The golden anniversary will be marked with a celebratory event this weekend and a host of exciting activities taking place across the Country Park, which is owned and operated by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council.
Visitors to the Park and the Grade II* listed Upton House can step into the world of Bridgerton as part of an ‘Upton Through the Ages’ event, with regency themed dancers, period costumes from Arts University Bournemouth Historic Costume Society, garden games and displays about the estate’s fascinating heritage.
There will also be entertainment, afternoon teas and picnics on the rolling South Lawn at the rear of the House.
The picturesque Walled Garden turns groovy to reflect the 1970s era of the Park’s opening, with a host of stalls, a silent disco, inflatables, 70s music and dancing and family activities including a fancy dress competition.
Events run from 11am on both Saturday 16 May and Sunday 17 May. Entry to the event is free (car parking charges apply).
Cllr Rich Herrett, BCP Council Cabinet Member for destination and leisure, said: “This anniversary is a time for all our residents who love Upton Country Park to come together and celebrate this beautiful setting, and have a great day out.
“Upton Country Park is one of the best places in BCP to celebrate nature and our area’s rich heritage. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone this weekend; whether you know the Park well, or are making your first visit.”
Roger Brewer, Upton Country Park Team Leader, said: “We’re excited to celebrate this significant milestone with the local community.
“The Park has become a highly popular destination for locals and holiday makers and welcomes around 1million visitors per year. We want to share our 50-year celebrations with everyone who values and appreciates the Country Park.”
The estate was gifted to the Poole Corporation (now BCP Council) in 1957 by the Llewellin family as a 55-acre estate along with Grade II* listed Upton House.
The House and estate were put to various uses through the next two decades, but the Country Park was officially opened to the Public on 15 May 1976 offering 100+ acres of gardens, parkland, and woodland on the shores of Holes Bay.
The Friends of Upton Country Park was also established that same year to support the House and grounds and continues to be an invaluable partner for the future of the Country Park.
For more information, visit: uptoncountrypark.com and facebook.com/uptoncountrypark
Today at Upton Country Park
Upton Country Park is a fabulous award-winning Country Park set to the north of Holes Bay Nature Park, a site of international and national wildlife importance, with RAMSAR, SPA and SSSI recognition. It comprises 160+ acres of woodland, gardens, meadows and parkland enjoyed by over a million visitors last year.
Facilities include parking, Welcome Centre, Tea Rooms, art gallery, Walled Garden, play area and a dog training area, as well as a number of concessions such as Create, Rock & Rose Rituals and Oak Sauna.
The Park hosts a number of large events throughout the year as well as providing a beautiful setting for visitors to explore and connect with nature.
The Country Park could not operate without the support of its nearly 200-strong team of volunteers, who carry out all manner of tasks from gardening and conservation to research and visitor experience.
The Grade II* listed Upton House is an impressive, licensed wedding and events venue, with indoor and outdoor spaces to hire for weddings, receptions, business meetings, training courses, small exhibitions, fundraising events, formal and informal private functions and more.
