Upton Country Park is a 160-acre green escape on the edge of Poole Harbour, blending grand Georgian parkland, woodland trails and shoreline walks. You can wander the walled garden with its colourful borders, spot wildlife from the bird hide or let kids loose in the adventure play area and splash fountain. With a welcoming tearoom for cake stops and plenty of picnic spots, it’s an easy, family-friendly day out that feels both peaceful and full of surprises.

Open ’til dusk every day, all year round. No admission fees, beautiful grounds, regular outdoor events, lots of child-friendly activities and great walking/cycling links.

Walking and cycling: Level paths criss-cross the Country Park, helping you to explore the wildflower meadows, woodland, shoreline of Poole Harbour and the formal gardens. Well signposted, with maps across the park, it’s easy to explore and not get lost.

Wildlife: On the edge of Poole Harbour, one of the largest natural harbours in the world, you can see lots of different sea birds and there is a Hide with bird information to help you. Species found here include the black-tailed godwit, little egret, redshank, kingfisher, oystercatcher, curlew, avocet, teal, wigeon, red-breasted merganser, spoonbill; bass, mullet, flounder, corkwing wrasse, gobies, clams and cockles; more than 80 species of marine invertebrates including king ragworm; woodland ground flora, saltmarsh plants and grassland with orchids.

Take in the views: Lots of benches are scattered across the site, inviting you to sit down, slow down and enjoy being outdoors with nature.

Children’s activities: Wooden playparks for children young and old are a great way to let off steam. In the summer, the formal gardens have fountains for little ones to cool down in.

Dogs very welcome: Dogs are allowed across the site (on leads in some areas) and there is also an enclosed dog play area and a dog wash!

Visit the Upton Country Park website for opening times, news, events and further information.