Events // Open Meadows 

Explore Hogchester's natural beauty

The magic of Hogchester’s wildflower meadows, rewilded areas, and serene landscapes. From splashing in streams to reflective meadow walks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Open during the flowering season from mid-May to the end of July

During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to wander 17 acres of pristine wildflower meadows and follow trails through stunning natural woodland. The meadows provide critical habitats for insects, birds, and bats, making them a vital part of our conservation efforts.

All proceeds from the Open Meadows support meadow restoration in partnership with the Dorset Wildlife Trust. Please note, dogs are not permitted.

17 acres
of wildflower meadows

Wildflower meadows are a patchwork of vibrant life, supporting insects and the birds, dragonflies, and bats that depend on them. Seeds from Hogchester’s meadows feed birds like goldfinches and siskins. Each summer, a “charm” of goldfinches, hundreds strong, gathers to feast on knapweed.

Mown paths weave through the meadows, offering visitors an up-close experience of the vibrant tapestry of flowers and insects. The meadows are in two locations:

  • The main meadows are home to the famous wildflowers featured in Sir David Attenborough’s Wild Isles series. With views over Charmouth and the Jurassic Coast, it’s a stunning place to begin your journey.
  • The labyrinth meadow, accessible from Charmouth Cemetery, offers a reflective walk to the heart of the field, with panoramic views toward Golden Cap and the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Hogchester’s wildflower seeds are harvested to establish new meadows across West Dorset, extending the beauty and biodiversity of these precious habitats.

Stream Challenge

Get your kids splashing and exploring with the Stream Challenge. Follow the trail through an intriguing in-stream walk, clambering over fallen trees, ducking under branches, and spotting hidden treasures. When you reach the large metal heart, you’ve completed the challenge! From there, turn right to begin the woodland walk for your return.

This exciting adventure takes you in and out of the stream with plenty of scrambling up banks. It’s suitable for able-bodied visitors only and is an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in the wild.

Labyrinth Walk

The labyrinth meadow provides a unique, contemplative experience. This beguiling walk winds to the heart of the meadow, offering tranquillity and breathtaking views of the Dorset countryside. Perfect for reflection, the labyrinth is a serene counterpart to the lively activities of the Stream Challenge.

Fun for children

The meadows are full of surprises, from butterfly spotting to watching dragonflies flit across the ponds. Kids can enjoy the giant trampoline, explore hidden corners, and learn about the fascinating wildlife that calls Hogchester home.

  How many butterflies can you find on Hogchester? 

  How many of these grasses can you find on Hogchester?

Visitor information

Opening Times:

Open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Entrance Fee:

£4 per person; children under 12 enter free. Tickets can be purchased in advance or pay via an honesty box at the car park.

Accessibility: The hilltops overlooking Charmouth and parts of the meadows are suitable for wheelchair users. Some areas may be too steep or uneven for full accessibility.

Directions

By car:

Parking is available in the main wildflower meadow. Turn onto Westover Hill from the A35 and look for the "HOGCHESTER PARKING" sign. What3Words: hissing.yacht.screen.

By foot:

Access from Charmouth Cemetery or public footpaths from Wootton Fitzpaine. What3Words: resold.swimsuits.stocks.

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