Access and Mobility

Getting around the gardens

Pathways and accessibility features at Carey’s, well-maintained paths designed for easy navigation, ensuring a welcoming environment for all visitors

Visits to Careys Secret Garden

Why visit us?

Despite being a rural location we make every effort to be accessible for all our guests. We have disabled access toilets, dedicated disabled parking areas, and seasonal drop-off points for wheelchair/mobility vehicle users to get closer to the entrance.

Take a look at our detailed Accessibility Guide.

Scroll down to view our full list of facilities.

Facilities

What's here

Enjoy the garden and feel comfortable that onsite we have a range of facilities so you can enjoy your day.

Coffee Shop

The Secret Salt Pig Coffee Shop serves delicious refreshments daily. Hot drinks, cold drink, and scrumptious cakes and pastries.

Garden Shop

Visit our retail areas for ethical giftware and premium-quality, sustainably grown plants—perfect for thoughtful gifts or enhancing your own green space.

Facilities

There are two water-less eco loos available for your convenience. These are unisex and accessible, however some assistance may be required. Both have emergency pull chords and support rails.

Friendly Gardeners

Our friendly gardeners are always happy to help, offering expert advice and a warm welcome to make your visit enjoyable and inspiring.

What to expect

Floral Gardens

Within the walls, you'll discover an Arid Garden, Rose Garden, Tea & Herb Gardens, Traditional Orchard and a Wildflower Meadow. We're also growing a delicious no-dig veggie patch and Food Forest. Don't forget the Stumpery and Permaculture Zones too!

The space to be enjoyed at Careys Secret Garden is primarily outside, and therefore appropriate clothing and footwear should be worn.

Nesting Ospreys

From April to July each year (all being well!) we welcome our nesting Ospreys back to the Careys Estate. In partnership with Birds of Poole Harbour, visitors can pre-book guided Osprey Tours and watch these magnificent birds of prey from our dedicated viewing platform.

Wildlife Habitats

Discover a variety of diverse wildlife habitats, each designed to support and nurture local species. From lush meadows and wildflower areas that attract pollinators, to the tranquil pond offering a sanctuary for amphibians and birds, our garden also features native hedgerows providing shelter for small mammals and insects. Thoughtfully designed to encourage biodiversity, each habitat is a thriving ecosystem, offering visitors the chance to observe nature and foster a deeper connection to the land.

Berlin Wall Exhibit

Within a secluded woodland clearing, outside of the garden walls, stand 7 full size pieces of the Berlin Wall which have been installed to draw juxtaposition between walls that keep people apart, and those that bring them together.

The Berlin Wall Exhibit is open for visitors to explore each day the garden is open.

Historical Walls and Sculptures

Carey’s Secret Garden is embraced by beautifully preserved Victorian stonework that adds character and charm to the landscape. The garden also features a striking Osprey Sculpture, symbolising the connection between the regeneration projects here and breath-taking art. Visitors can further admire unique pieces by local artist The Dorset Copperfish. These carefully curated sculptures and walls blend history, craftsmanship, and artistic expression, making Careys Secret Garden a truly memorable destination for history and art lovers alike.