Sculpture by the Lakes
Dorchester
Cafe or restaurant
Disabled facilities
Summary
- Large and tranquil sculpture park in a lakeside setting.
- Book day tickets or buy an annual membership with Candide.
- Book events, including; Rare Plant Fair and Wellbeing by the Lakes.
About Sculpture by the Lakes
A place to reflect. Hidden away in countryside close to Dorchester lies the peace and serenity of Sculpture by the Lakes, 26 acres of botanical gardens dotted with inspiring contemporary sculptures.
Wander the grounds and discover more than 30 permanent pieces by acclaimed sculptor Simon Gudgeon, designed to be viewed outside in the changing light. Follow trails that lead through woodland and among formal borders. Then visit the three galleries in the park to view ever-changing displays by international and local artists.
Created to instil a sense of wellbeing, these are gardens designed to be savoured. Bring a picnic and find your favourite spot by the water. Or enjoy the ‘field to plate’ ethos of the Gallery Café, with produce grown just a few feet away in the kitchen garden. Workshops and events throughout the year are closely linked to the local arts; the Dorset Arts Festival in July celebrates the artists and crafters of the area.
U14s and Babies Policy
Unfortunately, Sculpture by the Lakes is not permitted to allow access for children under 14, including babies. There is a lot of deep water and a fast flowing river, so the danger of accidents is too great a risk. We regret the inconvenience and hope that parents will understand that this mandatory restriction is in place to protect their children.
Garden Facilities
Toilets, Toilets with Wheelchair Access, Cafe/Restaurant, Car Park, Gift Shop, Plant Shop/Small Nursery
Garden Features
Winter: Snowdrops
Spring: Daffodils, Cherry Blossom, Perennial Borders
Summer: Perennial Borders
Autumn: Autumn Colour
Year-Round: Formal Garden, Woodland Walk, Lakes, Stream/River, Sculpture Garden
Tickets & Discounts
Day ticket prices: £12.50 (U14s not permitted - please see policy above).
Season ticket prices: Individual £70, Joint £120.
Good to Know
- Dog Walking: No - Guide dogs only (due to the presence of rescue animals on site and fast-flowing river).
- Family Friendly: No - Children are not allowed (see U14s policy above).
- Wheelchair & Pushchair Access: Mostly inaccessible (some paths moderately flat and paved).
- Bicycle Storage: Yes - you can lock up your bike at Sculpture by the Lakes.
- Postcode for SatNavs: The garden recommends using DT2 8QU.
- Last Entry: An hour before 'Closing Time'.
- Size of Site: 26 Acres.
- Profile Information: Last updated by Sculpture by the Lakes in 2021.
OPENING TIMES
Please check the latest COVID-19 guidance before your visit.
From 1 April 2021
Wednesday - Sunday
10AM - 5PM
Garden audio tours
Listen in on the secrets of selected gardens from their head gardeners. Our audio tours take you through seasonal planting, histories and stories.
Find Us
Sculpture by the Lakes
Pallington Lakes,
Dorchester
Dorset
GB
DT2 8QU
Contact Us
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