Frequently Asked Questions
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Am I responsible for maintaining my holiday home?
Yes, you are responsible for maintaining your property and keeping it in good working order. Our maintenance team are available should you need them for specific tasks.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, Merley House is a dog friendly holiday park and we welcome up to 2 dogs per holiday home or lodge. Many of our existing owners have dogs, so there’s an excellent community of dog owners on-park should you fancy some company during your walks. Dogs must be kept on lead at all times when walking around the park. We have a fully enclosed dog walking field next to the park’s entrance for exercising your dog off lead and the excellent Castleman Trailway is accessible from the park. There is an independent dog grooming salon adjacent to the park. Wimborne...
Are facilities free to access for holiday home owners at Merley House?
Yes, you are welcome to use our on-park facilities free of charge as part of your annual site fees. The indoor pool and sauna are both open for the entire holiday season. Guests are also permitted to use the facilities when visiting you at your holiday home. There is no charge for visitors.
Are holiday homes for hire dog friendly?
Yes, we have dog friendly holiday homes for hire.
Are the leisure facilities open to the general public?
No, the leisure facilities are not open to the general public. The indoor swimming pool, sauna, hot tub and play parks are for the exclusive use of holiday home owners at Merley House Holiday Park.
Are the terrace and paddling pool open all year long?
The terrace is open year-round; however, usage is weather dependent. The paddling pool is filled from Whitsun weekend until mid-September. The hot tub is open from April to mid-September.
Are your facilities wheelchair friendly?
We have an accessible toilet in our leisure complex with a lowered sink, grab rails, wet room style shower and alarm system. Access to the pool is stepped
Can I book a conference room at Merley House?
There are a number of conference rooms available to hire at Merley House. This is managed separately to the holiday park, so we kindly ask that you get in touch with Merley House events. They will be more than happy to discuss your requirements and help you plan your event.
Can I book a visit to view the park and pick a pitch?
Yes, we highly recommend a trip to Merley House Holiday Park if you’re considering buying a holiday home in Wimborne. Visiting the park in person is the best way to get a feel for our grounds and the types of properties we can offer. During the visit you can have a look around our facilities and tour our available pitches. We’ll talk you through the purchasing process and can answer any questions you may have. You are more than welcome to speak to existing holiday home owners when walking around the park. Our holiday home owners are our greatest advocates...
Can I book a wedding at Merley House?
Weddings are held in Merley House – the iconic stately home that sits within the grounds of our exclusive owners-only holiday park. Please get in touch with Merley House Events separately, they will be more than happy to answer any questions you have.
Can I choose my own caravan for a vacant pitch?
If our holiday homes for sale are not what you’re looking for, we can order a different model direct from the manufacturer. This will give you the flexibility to choose the perfect home to meet your needs. We have an excellent working relationship with all the leading manufacturers and will happily liaise with them on your behalf. You will be kept involved every step of the way.
Can I extend my stay?
Yes, it is possible to extend your stay subject to availability.
Can I have Sky TV in my holiday home?
Yes, many of our existing holiday home and lodge owners have had Sky TV installed in their property.
Can I have parcels delivered to the park?
Yes, we are happy for you to have parcels delivered to the park reception on an occasional basis. Please ensure they are clearly addressed and collected in a timely manner.
Can I live in my holiday home?
No, your holiday home cannot be your primary residence. Proof of address must be shown at the time of purchase and you must vacate your property during our winter closure each year.
Can I move my existing holiday home from another park to Merley House Holiday Park?
No, unfortunately we do not allow bring-ons at Merley.
Can I park my car next to my holiday home?
Yes, all of our holiday homes come with at least one parking space next to the home, so you won’t need to worry about finding a space. There is also a car park for visitors next to reception.
Can I reach Merley House with public transport?
The closest bus stop is approximately half a mile walk from the holiday park. Having access to a car is advisable.
Can I run a business from my holiday home?
No, unfortunately you cannot run a business from your holiday home. It is not a commercial property and you would be in breach of your Licence Agreement with us.
Can I sell my holiday home?
Of course, you are more than welcome to sell your holiday home at any point during your Licence Agreement term. You can either sell it independently or through us. We charge a commission when you sell your holiday home.
Can I sublet my holiday home?
No, we do not permit subletting at Merley House Holiday Park.
Can I upgrade my holiday home?
Yes, absolutely. You are more than welcome to upgrade your holiday home to a newer or larger home at any point during your Site Licence Agreement at Merley House Holiday Park. In fact, many of our existing owners have upgraded to newer models after initially purchasing a pre-owned holiday home. Please pop into reception to discuss your options with one of our friendly team.
Can I visit my holiday home whilst the park is closed?
You are welcome to check on your home when the park is closed, however you are not permitted to stay the night. Please note, water is turned off around the park during the month we are closed.
Can family and friends visit us while we’re staying at Merley House Holiday Park?
Absolutely! You are more than welcome to invite friends or family to visit when staying in your holiday home at Merley House.
Can friends or family stay at my holiday home while I’m not there?
Yes, friends and family are welcome to make use of your holiday home without you there. We kindly ask that they are made aware of our park rules. Sub-letting is not permitted.
Can visiting family and friends use the facilities?
Of course, your friends and family are more than welcome to use our on-park facilities, including the swimming pool, sauna, hot tub and play parks whilst visiting your holiday home at Merley House Holiday Park. There is no additional charge.
Do I have to make a booking in order to use the park’s facilities?
No, you do not need to make a booking to use any of our on-park facilities at Merley House Holiday Park. You are fee to use the swimming pool and sauna at your leisure at any point during standard opening hours (7.30am – 8.30pm). Many of our existing holiday home owners go for a swim every day! Please note: the paddling pool is open from Whitsun weekend to mid-September. We tend to open the hot tub from April to mid-September.
Do I need home insurance?
Yes, having appropriate holiday home insurance is a condition of our Site Licence Agreement. You can purchase insurance through us or via a third party, independent broker. We require an up-to-date copy of your insurance certificate every year.
Do I need to pay council tax?
No, you do not need to pay council tax on a holiday home because it is not a permanent residence.
Do I own the pitch?
No, you own you own your holiday home, but not the land it is on. You rent this from the park via a Licence Agreement, the terms of which you agree to at the time of purchase.
Do holiday homes come with decking?
No, holiday homes do not come with decking as standard – this depends on the pitch and the property. It is sometimes possible to add a veranda or decking. Please speak to park management for further advice.
Do you allow supermarket deliveries?
Yes, supermarket deliveries are welcomed on park, providing a convenient option for our holiday home owners. Wherever possible, we kindly ask that you choose a delivery slot within office hours, so our team can let the driver in the security barrier at the park entrance.
Do you have EV charging points?
No, we do not have any communal electric vehicle charging points, however some of our holiday home owners have had EV charging points fitted to the exterior of their properties independently. This is a private arrangement and permission must be sought from park management in advance.
Do you have changing facilities?
Yes, you are more than welcome to use our changing facilities during your trip to the indoor swimming pool. Equally, many of our existing owners choose to get changed in the comfort of their holiday home and walk to and from the leisure block in their dressing gowns.
Do you have holiday homes for hire?
We have a very small selection of holiday homes for hire. These are well suited to individuals or couples that need short term accommodation in the Wimborne area. Our holiday homes are available to hire on a monthly basis. They tend to be occupied by people waiting for a house sale to go through, having building works completed in their primary residence etc., rather than people visiting the area on holiday.
Do you have preferred manufacturers?
We work with leading holiday home manufacturers to provide a choice of luxury holiday homes. With more than 50 years’ experience in the industry we have longstanding relationships with many of our suppliers. Our preferred manufacturers are: Willerby, Swift, ABI, Regal, Pathfinder, Prestige, Willerby and Sunseeker.
Do you sell accessible holiday homes?
We do not keep accessible holiday homes in stock, but we are able to work with you to order an accessible home direct from one of our preferred manufacturers. Accessible holiday homes can have a number of adaptions, including ramped access, widened doorways and a wetroom. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss your requirements.
Do you sell any residential lodges?
No, unfortunately we are a holiday park, not a residential park. Your holiday home at Merley House must not be used as a permanent residence or primary address.
Do you sell pre-owned holiday homes?
Yes, we sometimes sell pre-owned holiday homes subject to availability. Please look at our holiday homes for sale listings or get in touch to find out more.
Does my holiday home come furnished?
Yes, all of our holiday homes come fully furnished and turn key ready. They are built to the highest standards with beautiful interiors and modern appliances. All you need to do is move in!
Does my holiday home, lodge or log come with a warranty?
Yes, new holiday homes come with a manufacturer’s warranty – this will vary depending on the manufacturer. Pre-owned holiday homes do not come with a warranty, unless there is time remaining on the manufacturers warranty.
Does the laundrette come with detergent?
No, you will need to supply your own laundry detergent and fabric conditioner when using the washing machines in our on-park laundrette.
How are utilities charged?
Utilities are not included in your annual site fees. We bill for water, sewage and waste disposal and electric twice a year in January and September. All homes are individually metered. Only a small number of our holiday homes have mains gas, the majority have gas bottles. Replacement gas bottles can be purchased on-site.
How far away is the Jurassic Coast from Merley House?
Merley House Holiday Park is ideally positioned for trips to the world-renowned Jurassic Coast if you fancy a relaxing day on the beach. Our Wimborne holiday park is less than an hour’s drive from some of Dorset’s best loved natural landmarks, providing easy access to the iconic Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove and Old Harry Rocks.
How far away is the New Forest National Park?
Many of our holiday home owners enjoy frequent trips to the New Forest National Park. The New Forest is the perfect location for anyone wanting to enjoy scenic walks and delightful country pubs. If you’re lucky you might spot a wild pony or two! The New Forest is approximately 40 minute drives from Merley House Holiday Park.
How long is the License Agreement at Merley House Holiday Park?
Holiday homes come with a 15-year Licence Agreement, whereas lodges come with a 30-year agreement. At the end of your License Agreement, you can either upgrade your home, or move it offsite. Providing your holiday home is maintained to a high standard you can also or extended your term by another 10 or 20 years.
How long is the season at Merley House?
Merley House Holiday Park is open from 16th March to 15th February each year. You can choose between a 7.5-month, 10 month and 11-month season at the time of purchase.
How many people can stay in my holiday home?
This will be determined by your specific holiday home. We kindly ask you not to exceed this number.
How much does it cost to purchase a holiday home at Merley House?
The price of our holiday homes varies, depending on the age, location and number of bedrooms. Typically, our pre-owned holiday homes start in the region of £60,000. The new holiday homes we sell tend to start at around £100,000.
How often can I visit my holiday home?
You are welcome to visit your holiday home at your leisure throughout the season. It cannot be your permanent residence – proof of address is needed at the time of purchase. We usually ask for a utility bill and photo ID.
How will I hear news from the park?
Take a look at our blog to stay up to date with the latest news from Merley House Holiday Park. There you will find park updates as well as recommendations of things to do in the local area. If you are an existing owner, you can login into the owners portal using your email address. You will see important notices and announcements on the home screen.
Is Merley House Holiday Park family friendly?
Yes, Merley House is a family-friendly holiday park. Some of our existing home owners have children and many have grandchildren come to visit during stays at their holiday home. We have a small selection of children’s facilities on-site to keep younger members of the family entertained. These include two outdoor play areas, a recreational field with goals posts and a paddling pool. Children are also welcome to use our indoor swimming pool while supervised.
Is Merley House part of a holiday park group?
No, Merley House is not part of a holiday park group. We are an independent and family-owned holiday park that has been established for more than 50 years. Over the years we’ve worked hard to create a welcoming environment for our holiday home owners. Some of our existing owners have been with us for decades, which is testament to our team and the running of the park. Merley House is a proud member of the British Holiday & Home Parks Association.
Is a deposit required to secure my holiday home?
Yes, a deposit is required to reserve the pitch and order your holiday home from the manufacturer. The balance will be due on delivery.
Is finance available?
We do not offer holiday home finance at Merley House Holiday Park, however there are a number of national providers should you want to explore this option independently.
Is there security on the park?
We take the safety of our guests very seriously and have invested in numerous security measures here at Merley Holiday Park. There are live CCTV cameras around the site for your peace of mind. There is also a code operated security gate at the park’s entrance.
What are the annual site fees?
Annual site fees vary depending on the type and location of the property. Our site fees start in the region of £3,000 based on an 11-month licence. They are re-evaluated on an annual basis and are subject to change. Site fees are billed every quarter.
What do I do when my Licence Agreement comes to an end?
When your Licence Agreement comes to an end you have a number of options. Please speak to the Merley House team.
What do I need to do before the end of the season?
Merley House Holiday Park closes for 1 month every year. Before vacating your holiday home for winter, we kindly ask all guests to remove any items of value. You will also need to drain down your property. You can do this yourself or you can request that our maintenance team carries this out for you. Water is turned off around the park during the time.
What do the site fees include?
Site fees cover the rental of your pitch, use of the facilities and maintenance of communal areas. The site fees also contribute towards landscaping and groundskeeping.
What do you need from me in order to buy a holiday home?
You will need to provide a copy of your primary address and photo ID. Before moving into your holiday home you will need to provide a copy of your insurance documents.
What happens if my holiday home needs maintenance?
We have a capable groundskeeping team on-park to help with any small maintenance tasks. We can also recommend reputable tradesman in the local area. When enlisting the help of off-park tradesman, we ask that you provide us a copy of their electrical and/or gas safe qualifications. You must seek the permission of management before carrying out any changes to the exterior of your property or surrounding grounds.
What happens when the park is closed?
Merley House Holiday Park opens from 16th March to 15th February each year. During our period of closure, you must vacate your holiday home and return to your primary residence. Rest assured your home will be safe and secure whilst you’re away. We have a gated entrance; CCTV and our park owners live on-site year-round.
What is the process of buying a holiday home?
The process of buying a holiday home is relatively simple in comparison to buying a bricks and mortar property. Visit Merley House Holiday Park for a tour – we will show you our available holiday homes and pitches If you select a home that is already on park, you will need to pay a deposit, provide proof of address, ID and a copy of your holiday home insurance. If everything is in order you can move into your home straight away, after settling the outstanding balance. It usually takes around 2 weeks to complete this process. If you would like...
What is the smoking policy at Merley House?
You are free to smoke in your holiday home or lodge. Smoking or vaping is not permitted in communal areas.
What storage options will I have?
You are more than welcome to add external storage to your property, as long as it sits within your boundary and is maintained to a high standard. You are limited to 1 shed or 2 storage boxes per holiday home or lodge.
What time does the indoor swimming pool open and close?
The indoor swimming pool is open every day throughout the season from 7.30am – 8.30pm. We typically close the pool for cleaning for an hour on Mondays and Fridays.
What time does the reception open and close?
The reception is open every day throughout the season and are friendly team are ready and waiting to answer any questions you may have! Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 8:30am – 10am and 5pm – 5:30pm Weekends: 9am – 10am and 5pm – 6pm When reception is closed you will find the park managers number on the door in case of emergency.
What types of holiday homes do you have at Merley House?
We have a selection of holiday homes, lodges and chalets for sale at Merley House Holiday Park in Wimborne. All of our homes come from leading manufacturers with excellent warranties (applicable to new-homes only). We will work with you to help you find the perfect holiday home to suit your needs.
What’s the closest beach to Merley House?
Our Wimborne Holiday Park is ideally located for making the most of the some of the best beaches in Dorset. Sandbanks in Poole is our closet beach (7miles away), but Bournemouth, Poole and Studland are all easily accessible by car.
What’s the closest town to Merley House?
Merley House Holiday Park is less than 10 minutes’ drive from Wimborne Minster, a charming market town boasting lovely independent shops, cafes and restaurants. There are a range of amenities in Wimborne including a Waitrose supermarket, Coop, petrol station and vets.
What’s the difference between log cabins, lodges and holiday homes?
The main difference between a log cabin, lodge and holiday home is the size and style. Lodges tend to be wider than holiday homes, providing a larger more open-plan living area. Log cabins, as the name would suggest, are wooden clad whereas holiday homes and lodges are usually clad by some form of composite weatherboarding. We are more than happy to show you the difference in person during your trip to Merley House Holiday Park. Our team can answer any questions you may have and help you decide on the right home for you.
Where is Merley House Holiday Park located?
Merley House Holiday Park is situated in a convenient location on the outskirts of Wimborne with easy access to the A31. Poole and Bournemouth are just a short drive away. Despite our close proximity to some of Dorset’s best loved towns, the park enjoys a rural location surrounded by beautiful countryside.
Where is the closest restaurant or takeaway?
There are a wide selection of cafes, pubs and restaurants in neighbouring Wimborne, so you’ll never be short of places to go if you fancy treating yourself to a delicious meal out. There are also pizza, Thai, Fish & Chips and Indian takeaways – some of which deliver to the park.
Where is the closest supermarket?
Holiday home owners can make use of a range of supermarkets in the local area. There is a Waitrose and Co-op in nearby Wimborne, which is less than 10 minutes’ drive from the park. If you don’t mind travelling slightly further afield there is a Tesco, Asda and Sainsbury’s in Poole.
Why should I choose Merley House Holiday Park?
There are many reasons to buy a holiday home at Merley House Holiday Park in Dorset. Our quiet owners-only park is set in an idyllic countryside setting within easy reach of Wimborne, Bournemouth and Poole. We work with leading manufacturers to offer a fantastic selection of holiday homes, lodges and chalets for sale. All of our homes come fully furnished with high quality fixtures, fittings and appliances. As an independent and family-owned park that has been established for more than 50 years, we have earned a fantastic reputation within the holiday park industry and pride ourselves on our excellent customer...
Will I need a tv licence to watch tv in my holiday home?
The TV licence at your primary address covers usage in your holiday home.
Will I pay stamp duty on my holiday home?
No, stamp duty is not payable on holiday homes. This is one of the major benefits in comparison to purchasing a traditional bricks and mortar property for use as a holiday home.