Two weeks ago when the UK basked in hot sunshine and children on their last week of the Easter Holidays spent days in local parks and on beaches around the south coast, we took the number 50 Bus from Swanage over the Sandbanks Ferry alighting opposite the Loch Fyne restaurant at Canford Cliffs.
With camera batteries charged we had our hearts set on viewing the magnificent gardens at Compton Acres. It was my first visit but my partner’s previous visit was not at this lush time of year when colours are at their best.
The gardens are divided up into several areas. The Italianate garden with its beautiful lake was one of the first and we sat on one of the many benches – there is ample seating throughout the gardens – savouring the wonderful sights of spring bulbs, blossoms and flowers. The heat shimmered on the water and paths and sun hats were out in abundance.
We had lunch at the newly established café – a tasty plate of mackerel, salad and potato and this midway break is highly recommended. The Harbour view café was not open as it was out of season but we were allowed to come out of the gardens to take lunch at the café at the entrance.
The highlights beyond the Italianate garden were the extensive heather garden and the Japanese garden. The views across Poole harbour are worth the entrance fee so take time to sit at Harbour view. As seniors we paid £7.95 each, well worth the wonderful day we experienced.
If you are on holiday on the Isle of Purbeck, in Poole or Bournemouth do take time out to visit this fabulous venue. However, you will need plenty of money as the gift shop is one of the best I have seen in a long while.
“Compton Acres homepage”:http://www.comptonacres.co.uk
