Kingston Maurward is a college specialising in farming, countryside and outdoor skills, set on a beautiful country estate just outside Dorchester. There’s also an animal park with farm animals and play areas, making it an easy-going day out for families as well as anyone who simply enjoys a peaceful garden walk.
Kingston Maurward Animal Park and Gardens has 35 acres of beautiful formal gardens with year-round interest including two National Plant collections, sweeping lawns, lakeside walks plus a collection of livestock, poultry, and donkeys – to name a few – all set within Grade II listed parkland.
Enjoy a stroll followed by a cup of tea and a piece of cake from our Barn Café, let the children run and play in our indoor or outdoor play areas – or sit on one of our secluded benches, listen to the sound of birdsong and be inspired by a location that so influenced Thomas Hardy. Donations are encouraged to support our work but we are free to enter and open daily and we welcome enquiries for group or event bookings.
Things to do
Explore the formal gardens: A tranquil, peaceful and intimate spot, the gardens are beautifully situated in undulating Dorset countryside, with a lake, broad sweeping and formal gardens including two national collections.
Get up close to the animals: Ponies, pigs, goats, guinea pigs and lots more! say hello to these lovely friendly animals and watch them frolic in these beautiful surrounds.
Stay for lunch: There is a cafe at the Animal Park or you are very welcome to take a picnic and choose a tranquil spot in the formal gardens or overlooking the lake.
Explore Hardy Country: Head over to the nearby Stinsford Church, where writer Thomas Hardy was buried. For a longer walk, follow the Hardy Way as it wanders along the tranquil river to Hardy Cottage and Thorncombe Woods. Visit the Dorset Council website to see the route (2 miles).
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