Sculpture by the Lakes

Interesting place. However, the lack of signage from both road directions makes it very difficult to find and is frustrating. Similarly, arrived to find they had run out of food ( takeaway) despite being assured we could eat there. Rather unpleasant pate and crackers could not really be counted as a good lunch ( all they had left) and we did not want to waste the £25 we had paid for 3 hours in the sculpture park by sitting in the cafe ( we were told we 'could be squeezed in'!!) Not great to arrive to find all this, after 1 and a quarter hours of negotiating traffic on single track dangerous lanes. Need clear signs for loos, where takeaway food area was , parking etc generally around site to help visitors.The park itself is lovely however, as are the planting and sculptures. Pretty, clear river runs alongside the park, and there are plenty of places to sit quietly, or picnic. Just bring your own food if you have a limited time slot. Being told that 'we have been so busy so no food left' ( midweek in mid September ??) is not exactly what tired, stressed visitors want to hear. Expect to drive past the entrance several times before finding it. Don't always expect the three phonelines to be answered if you have queries or are lost. In brief, sculpure and park very attractive but communication a lot to be desired.Glad we finally went, but if we come again ( quite pricey) well come prepared !"

What a wonderful place, a little bit of heaven! My uncle was over from Canada and was thrilled to see such a beautiful place! Beautiful gardens, amazing sculptures & a stunning location.

Visited today after friends recommended it. They were right, a real gem in the Dorset countryside. It's so beautiful and tranquil. Fantastic sculptures artistically located around the lakes look in any direction, and you find a new sight to feast on. Great café and lovely staff. Well done.

Beautiful, calm space with lots to view on the walk around the lakes. Stunning vegetable/flower garden too. Lovely cafe to end with.

Fabulous place to visit although best to book tickets in advance. The main attractions are two beautiful lakes and a swiftly-running river around which are sited some 135 stunning works of art. The level footpath meanders around the lakes, bordered by shrubs, greenery and flowers, and interspersed by amazing spectacles of a variety of sculptures set to enhance the scene. Seats are scattered throughout for visitors to rest and admire the glorious views. We booked for the afternoon entry only and enjoyed lunch in the restaurant first, and at the end of the afternoon, had a browse around the craft/farm shop. I thoroughly recommend the place and praise all the staff, workers, gardeners, organizers there - full marks!

Such a lovely place to explore, particularly loved walking through the Birch and Pine tree areas, and view the Artwork, so many nice people working here and so much to see. Very nicely kept and with excellent access all around, most definitely we shall come again in the Spring.

Really nice relaxing place, plenty of seating to take a sit back and enjoy the wild life, the lake or the sculptures. On site cafe serves amazing tomato and sausage rolls. Really friendly informative staff.

Fab experience,took our dog and enjoyed our couple of hours here.Found a perfect spot for our picnic overlooking the lake and sculptures.Such a lovely setting

Beautiful, quiet gardens with some very impressive sculpture work and a lovely, ambient atmosphere. The café food is high quality and the staff are welcoming and friendly. There is an art shop as well where it is possible to buy original works.

This place is so calming and simply stunning. We were very lucky with the weather and it was a fantastic experience. The grounds are well maintained, facilities are new and clean, and the artworks are beautiful and engaging. Nature is in full bloom, and there's plenty of wildlife.