Try Sculptures by the Lakes just outside Dorchester
https://www.sculpturebythelakes.co.uk/
It is in 26 acres of beautiful countryside at Pallington, with many sculptures by Simon Gudgeon , which, believe me, are quite stunning! You should take a camera, for sure the area is full of beautiful visual treats, as well as very well tended trees shrubs and flowerbeds
I organised a trip there back in 2015, for a group of us, mainly photographers, and we hired the Pavillion, and took picnic food with us. It was one of the most pleasant days out we all have had in Dorset. Why not make enquiries yourself? An excellent day out for your guests if you run a B&B, or are in a Camera Club etc.
Since our visit there have been some changes. There was no cafe, but there is a rather splendid one now. I have noticed from their publicity that they also sell plants and shrubs, and there is, of course a super Gallery, where you can buy art and some smaller sculptures!
Admission is just £10 per person, they are now closed on Mondays but open Tuesday to Sunday 10 am till 5 pm.
You can hire the “River Keeper’s Hut”, and “The Island” as well for a day, imagine that? An island all to yourselves in beautiful surroundings! A bonus for me personally was the “no dogs, or children under 14” which guarantees peace!
There is currently a photographic competition running there. I think the subject is wildlife, taken within the area of the lakes, with a good prize well worth winning, details will be on the website link above.
If you go and have never been before, you will wonder why you hadn’t been before! Go, enjoy yourselves, “because you’re worth it”
Doug Chalk
