Upwey Wishing Well Gardens
A magical hidden gem in Dorset, featuring enchanting water gardens, a real wishing well, and a charming tearoom.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ambiance
Upwey Wishing Well Gardens
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magical hidden gem in Dorset, featuring enchanting water gardens, a real wishing well, and a charming tearoom.
"Stepping into a wonderland with the best tea time ever!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Prime Spots
Beat the crowds and snag the best garden tables for your tea or lunch.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll want to explore every corner of these beautiful, sprawling gardens. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Wishing Well
Center of the gardens
Make a wish at the heart of this enchanting spot, surrounded by crystal-clear springs and lush greenery.
Water Gardens
Throughout the grounds
Wander through a wonderland of vibrant flowers, subtropical plants, and tranquil water features.
Tearoom Delights
Main building and garden seating
Indulge in delicious cream teas, lunches, and cakes in a picturesque setting, indoors or amidst the gardens.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Enchantment
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Prime Spots
Beat the crowds and snag the best garden tables for your tea or lunch.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll want to explore every corner of these beautiful, sprawling gardens. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Magic
The gardens are incredibly photogenic, especially with the water features and lush flora. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Easy Parking Nearby
Park in the church car park just up the road with a small donation.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Prime Spots
Beat the crowds and snag the best garden tables for your tea or lunch.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll want to explore every corner of these beautiful, sprawling gardens. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Magic
The gardens are incredibly photogenic, especially with the water features and lush flora. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Easy Parking Nearby
Park in the church car park just up the road with a small donation.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Well-behaved dogs are welcome to join you in the gardens. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Upwey Wishing Well Gardens for its stunning, magical atmosphere and beautiful water gardens, often comparing it to stepping into a wonderland. The tearooms receive high marks for delicious cream teas and friendly service, making it a highly recommended spot for a peaceful and enjoyable visit.
"Beautiful, stunning, best tea time ever! The whole place was gorgeous. I felt like stepping into a wonderland. Best part was - I had my afternoon tea next to the water and a peaceful stream with ducks and ducklings. Customer service was good too. What not to love!? Definitely highly recommended for anyone visiting Dorsett."
Eileen Saw
"Absolutely fabulous few hours here. A wonderful, friendly greeting and service, a lovely table and the honour of enjoying their High Tea at 3pm today. Every item across the 3 plates were delicious!
Then had a little stroll to the wishing well and around the garden. Stunning!
Parking was easy in the church car park just a few feet up the road, with the request of a tiny donation to the church.
Highly recommend going for a visit! Will definitely be back when I’m next in the area."
Vikki Walker
"Great service, friendly staff. Beautiful gardens in an amazing setting and lovely freshly made cakes. I ordered the bacon sandwich which oddly was served with hash browns but to be fair they were the best hash browns I've ever had. I would highly recommend."
Paul
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Upwey Wishing Well Gardens is located in the village of Upwey, on the outskirts of Weymouth, Dorset. Many visitors arrive by car, with parking available in the nearby church car park. For those using public transport, the Upwey train station is within walking distance of the gardens.
Yes, it's often described as a 'hidden gem' but is well-signposted once you are in the village of Upwey. Social media posts often highlight its tucked-away charm.
You can take a short drive or a bus from Weymouth to Upwey. The train is also a convenient option, connecting Weymouth directly to Upwey station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the gardens is generally free, but it's a tearoom and restaurant, so visitors are encouraged to purchase food or drinks. Some sources mention a small donation for parking in the church car park.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit. They are often open daily during peak seasons.
While walk-ins are often accommodated, booking a table, especially for afternoon tea or during busy periods, is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The gardens are frequently described as 'magical' and 'enchanting,' with beautiful water features, lush greenery, and vibrant flowers, making it a photographer's dream. 
The wishing well itself, the serene water streams, the large Gunnera leaves, and the flower-filled nooks offer fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees for an extra magical touch.
Yes, the presentation of the food, especially the cream teas and cakes, is often highlighted as visually appealing and perfect for sharing on social media.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
They offer a range of options including brunch, lunch, and traditional Dorset cream teas. Freshly made cakes and coffees are also popular choices.
The cream teas are consistently praised as 'delicious' and among the 'best in Dorset.' Expect a delightful spread of scones, jam, and cream.
Yes, many reviewers mention it's a wonderful place for a special treat or celebration, with excellent food and a beautiful atmosphere. It's also noted as a potential wedding venue.
While specific menus can change, the tearooms generally offer a good selection of dishes. It's advisable to inquire about vegetarian or vegan options when booking or upon arrival.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many visitors bring their children and even dogs, making it a great spot for a family outing. The tearooms offer kid-friendly options, including ice cream, ensuring everyone is catered for. It's a place where both adults and children can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the gardens.
💖 Couples and Romantic Getaways
+1Enjoying a delightful afternoon tea or a quiet lunch amidst the blooming flowers and tranquil surroundings provides a memorable experience. The wishing well itself adds a touch of whimsical romance, making it an ideal spot for a special date or a peaceful retreat together.
+1🐶 Dog Owners
It's a wonderful opportunity for a scenic dog walk amidst beautiful surroundings, followed by a relaxing break at the tearooms. Just remember to keep your dog on a lead and clean up after them to ensure everyone can enjoy the gardens.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Water Gardens
+2The sheer size of the gardens often surprises visitors, revealing quiet corners and picturesque spots perfect for a leisurely stroll. Keep an eye out for the impressive Gunnera manicata leaves, which add a dramatic, almost prehistoric feel to certain areas. The interplay of dappled sunlight filtering through the trees and the gentle sound of flowing water creates a deeply peaceful and restorative environment, ideal for escaping the everyday hustle.
+1Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape or a visually stunning backdrop, the water gardens offer a unique blend of natural charm and whimsical magic. It's a place where you can truly slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the beauty of the English countryside.
+1A Taste of Dorset: Tearoom Delights
Beyond cream teas, the tearooms provide a varied menu for brunch and lunch, featuring freshly prepared dishes. Reviewers have praised items like bacon sandwiches, noting even unexpected accompaniments like hash browns were exceptionally good. The quality of the food is frequently highlighted, with the ingredients shining through, justifying the price point which some note as not the cheapest but excellent value for the quality.
Ample seating is available both indoors and outdoors, allowing guests to enjoy their meals amidst the beauty of the gardens. The attentive and friendly service from the staff is a recurring theme in reviews, enhancing the overall dining experience. It's a perfect spot to refuel after exploring the gardens or to simply enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea.
Weddings and Events at the Wishing Well
The enchanting water gardens and the whimsical atmosphere create an unforgettable experience for couples and their guests. It's a venue that promises a day filled with natural beauty and charming details, making it ideal for those seeking something beyond the conventional.
Beyond weddings, the venue is also noted for hosting other events, leveraging its beautiful setting and excellent catering. The combination of a unique location and quality service makes it a sought-after spot for special gatherings in Dorset.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit