Merryfield Meadow, Dorset

Merryfield Meadow is a lush river meadow located just outside the village of Maiden Newton in Dorset, approximately 8 miles to the north west of Dorchester, and around 25 minutes from various spots on the Jurassic Coast. The land has excellent access via a very short track directly from the A356 (Dorchester Road) and has private parking. The meadow is flat and predominantly bordered by well established broadleaved species to the west and north, providing excellent privacy. The eastern boundary is formed by a thick hedge which runs alongside the road.

The meadow provides an ideal setting from which to plant a new woodland, a process which will be aided by natural regeneration from the seed source provided by trees in the immediate vicinity. Due to its proximity to the River Frome, the meadow is prone to wetter areas in winter which provide a wonderful habitat for wildlife such as frogs, toads and newts. One may wish to consider planting species in these areas which flourish in such conditions, such as Alder and Willow.

Having had prior agricultural use as pasture land, livestock grazing has limited the proliferation of different flower species, however a prospective buyer may wish to return a section of the land to a wildflower meadow. These dynamic and vibrant habitats can provide ecosystems which teem with insects, plants and related birds and mammals. The land benefits from a stream which runs down to the River Frome, which runs strongly in wetter weather and can dry out in the hot summer months. It would be possible to create a pond to further compliment the topography of the land.

Overall the meadow presents a wonderful opportunity for those with environmental and amenity interests, containing all the necessary features to create both a haven for wildlife and a tranquil spot to relax and unwind.

In terms of finding the meadow, whilst heading north up the A356 from Dorchester, the “Planting Land” sign can be seen on the left hand side by a lay-by 2km after the village of Frampton (with a further 2km to go before reaching Maiden Newton). Please park here and go through the gate and turn immediately right, and go through a further gate. Walk north along the perimeter of the field (with the hedge on your right) until you get to the other end of the field where you will find a gate about 40 metres to your left. Go through this gate (again heading north) and walk straight ahead for about 250m across the field where you will find the entrance to Merryfield Meadow.

The access directly to Merryfield Meadow from the A356 is currently locked and is therefore not possible to use for parking for viewings.