Upton Country Park
A vast, free-entry country park in Dorset with historic house, gardens, woodlands, and shoreline. Perfect for walks, family fun, and dog adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy blooming gardens & wildlife
Upton Country Park
Best Time
Enjoy blooming gardens & wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, free-entry country park in Dorset with historic house, gardens, woodlands, and shoreline. Perfect for walks, family fun, and dog adventures.
"A very nice country park with a good path to walk on. Tranquil and calm with plenty of space, wildlife and views."
Free Parking Options
Look for free parking on surrounding roads to save on fees, then walk in. :car:
Family Fun Tip
On hot days, the visitor centre has ice cream with shorter queues than the main kiosk. :ice_cream:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Upton House
Central
Explore the historic Upton House and its stunning formal gardens, offering a glimpse into the past.
Woodland Walks
Throughout the park
Wander through diverse natural habitats and enjoy peaceful trails teeming with local wildlife.
Shoreline & Stream
Along the water
Enjoy the tranquil 2.6km of shoreline and a charming stream, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Play Areas & Splash Fountains
Near the visitor centre
A hit with families, featuring play areas and splash fountains for kids to enjoy on warmer days.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Entry Fees
+1Check for Events
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Parking Options
Look for free parking on surrounding roads to save on fees, then walk in.
Family Fun Tip
On hot days, the visitor centre has ice cream with shorter queues than the main kiosk.
Dog-Friendly Adventures
Upton Country Park is a fantastic spot for dog walkers, with events like the Muddy Dog Dash!
Running Routes
Enjoy hilly trail runs or flatter loops, with a weekly parkrun event. :runner:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Parking Options
Look for free parking on surrounding roads to save on fees, then walk in.
Family Fun Tip
On hot days, the visitor centre has ice cream with shorter queues than the main kiosk.
Dog-Friendly Adventures
Upton Country Park is a fantastic spot for dog walkers, with events like the Muddy Dog Dash!
Running Routes
Enjoy hilly trail runs or flatter loops, with a weekly parkrun event. :runner:
Event Awareness
Check for music festivals or other events to plan your visit or enjoy the atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Upton Country Park for its tranquil atmosphere, ample space, and beautiful natural scenery, making it ideal for walks, picnics, and family outings. The free entry and available free parking options are significant draws. Some reviewers noted a lack of readily accessible toilets, which is worth checking in advance.
"A very nice country park with a good path to walk on. Tranquil and calm with plenty of space, wildlife and views. Plenty of grass for picnics, sitting and playing on.
The car park we used was free with no barrier and no pay or display...
There are shops near by but we couldn't find any toilets. Please check online details and put in Upton country park in Northampton NN5."
louise rose
"An interesting place for a walk in the countryside. You will not be too far away from civilisation where ever you go.
Also an interesting link between the town and Kislingbury by foot"
Baloo Bear
"Is the first time we get here and we were lucky to have snow falling too 🥰🌧🌦❄ (in April 😱).
The kids had lovely time, running, riding their bikes, ball playing.
Is very adequate for large family with kids, dogs walking, running 🏃♂️ or just to have a blanket on the grass and enjoy the English weather (four seasons in a day 🌞🌦🌩☔🤣🤣)"
Ionela Ciuca
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Upton Country Park is accessible by car, with parking available on-site (fees apply). You can also find free parking on surrounding roads if you're willing to walk a bit further. Cycling and walking routes also lead directly into the park.
While 'Upton Park' is a well-known area in East London, Upton Country Park is located in Poole, Dorset. +5
Yes, cycling routes are available that lead directly into Upton Country Park, making it an accessible option for cyclists.
Driving is a common method, with parking available. Public transport options might involve local bus routes, but checking real-time schedules is recommended.
Absolutely! Upton Country Park is connected by walking routes, allowing for a scenic approach to the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Upton Country Park itself is free. However, there are parking fees for visitors arriving by car.
Parking fees apply at Upton Country Park. Visitors have noted that free parking can sometimes be found on surrounding roads.
While the main car park has fees, some visitors have found free parking spots in smaller car parks dotted around the outside of the park.
Upton Country Park is generally open daily, but specific hours for facilities like the house or cafe may vary. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
For specific events like music festivals or charity runs, booking tickets in advance is usually recommended to secure your spot.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Upton Country Park offers a variety of activities including exploring Upton House and gardens, woodland walks, enjoying the shoreline, and visiting play areas for children.
Yes, it's very family-friendly with play areas, splash fountains, and plenty of open space for kids to run and play.
Upton Country Park is very dog-friendly, with many visitors bringing their pets for walks. Events like the Muddy Dog Dash are also held here.
Yes, the park features beautiful walking trails through woodlands, along the shoreline, and formal gardens, catering to various preferences.
Yes, there is an on-site cafe offering refreshments.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is an on-site cafe at Upton Country Park offering food and drinks.
Absolutely! Upton Country Park has plenty of open grassy areas perfect for picnics.
The cafe offers refreshments, with prices ranging from £3-£10.
Yes, the park is close to many restaurants, making it convenient to combine a walk with a meal.
Yes, there is an ice cream kiosk. A tip for hot days is that the visitor centre also sells ice cream with potentially shorter queues.
📸 📸 Photography
Upton House and its formal gardens offer picturesque scenes. The shoreline and woodland trails also provide beautiful natural backdrops.
With its diverse habitats, shoreline, and expansive grounds, Upton Country Park offers excellent opportunities for landscape photography.
The park is home to various local wildlife, making it a great location for nature and wildlife photography.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial photography or specific event coverage, it's advisable to check with park management.
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, often provide the best light for photography, highlighting the park's natural beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring a picnic to enjoy the ample open space, or grab an ice cream from the cafe (or visitor centre for shorter queues on busy days!). +1 The fairy nature trail adds an extra touch of magic for younger explorers. Consider visiting during warmer months to make the most of the splash fountains. The park's varied landscapes, from gardens to woodlands, offer gentle walks suitable for little legs.
It's a great place for kids to burn energy and enjoy the outdoors in a safe and beautiful environment. 🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
+1 While parking incurs a charge, savvy visitors can often find free parking on surrounding roads, requiring just a short walk to enter the park. +1Pack your own picnic to save on food costs, as there are plenty of lovely spots to set up.
This makes Upton Country Park a fantastic, cost-effective way to experience a significant natural and historical attraction. 🐶 Dog Owners
+1 Many visitors bring their dogs for walks along the shoreline, through the woodlands, and across the open fields. The park even hosts popular dog-centric events like the 'Muddy Dog Dash,' showcasing its welcoming atmosphere for pets. +1Remember to keep your dog under control, especially in areas with wildlife or during busy events. Always clean up after your pet to help keep the park beautiful for everyone.
+1 It's a perfect spot for a refreshing walk or a fun day out with your canine companion. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Tale of Two Uptons: London vs. Dorset
In contrast, Upton Country Park in Dorset is a sprawling natural estate featuring a historic house, extensive gardens, woodlands, and shoreline. It's a destination for outdoor activities, family fun, and enjoying the Dorset countryside.
+1 Understanding which 'Upton' you're interested in is key to planning your visit and finding relevant information. Family Fun and Budget-Friendly Visits
+1 The park boasts dedicated play areas and splash fountains, which are a huge hit with children, especially during warmer months. The open spaces are perfect for kids to run, play ball games, or simply enjoy the outdoors. Beyond the play facilities, the park offers a variety of experiences that cater to different ages. The fairy nature trail is a delightful addition for younger visitors, sparking imagination.
Even on a hot day, a tip from a local mum suggests heading to the visitor centre for ice cream if the main kiosk has a long queue, ensuring a smoother experience for everyone. The park's diverse landscapes, from formal gardens to woodlands, also provide opportunities for gentle exploration and discovery for the whole family. Active Pursuits: Running and Dog Walking
The course is described as hilly and trail-based, consisting of about 1.5 laps of the park, offering a scenic yet challenging run. Some local runners have also noted that Upton Park (referring to the London location) can be a good loop, with the option to extend via the canal. Upton Country Park in Dorset is a haven for dog owners. It's a popular spot for dog walkers, and the park even hosts events like the 'Muddy Dog Dash,' a charity event that sees many happy dogs and their owners participating.
+1 The vast open spaces and varied terrain make it an ideal place for dogs to explore and get their exercise. Remember to be mindful of other park users and keep dogs under control, especially in areas with wildlife or during busy events. +1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit