Why Merley House Holiday Park?
Merley House is an independent and family-owned Holiday Park in Wimborne, just a short drive from Bournemouth and Poole. Our owners only park is home to a range of holiday homes, cabins and luxurious lodges, providing the perfect escape for anyone looking to enjoy regular trips to the Dorset countryside and coast.
Owning a holiday home has many benefits. Here we share all of the reasons why we think Merley House should be on your shortlist when searching for a Dorset holiday park.
Merley House Holiday Park History
Merley House Holiday Park is set in the grounds of a Grade I listed manor house with a rich and interesting history. Over the years, the impressive 35-acre estate has undergone numerous refurbishments, before becoming the holiday park it is today.
The park has been owned and managed by the Hammick family for more than 50 years. The owner’s continued investment has transformed the grounds into a 5-star holiday park with excellent on-park facilities and carefully manicured grounds.
Merley House Timeline
1750s
The birth of Merley House
Ralph Willett bought the Merley Estate and started building Merley House, which was completed over a decade later, in the 1760s.
1770s
Merley House's Expansion
Additional wings were added to the house. Acclaimed artists began visiting the house to paint the Willett Family.
1810s
New Owner
The new owner, John Willett demolished the two new wings in 1813 and sold the books and paintings in the library to pay off his debts.
1820s
Visitors at Merley House
During his time as owner, John Willett rented the manor to many historical figures, including Captain William John Bethell and his close friend His Royal Highness Prince William Fredrick.
1850s
Merley's New Owners
Following the death of owner Henry Ralph Willett in 1857, Willett Lawrence Adye inherited the house.
1860s
Tenants at Merley House
Willett Lawrence Adye rented the house to many tenants, including Australian explorer William Charles Wentworth, who later died in the house.
1870s
Changing hands
Adye sold Merley House in 1878 and was bought by the Wienholt Family.
1880s - 1940s
Merley House's Wartime Journey
For a long time, the house was passed through the generations. Winston Churchill’s aunt Lady Cornelia Wimborne owned the house during the 1920s. During World War 2, the house was requisitioned by the War office, and later converted into flats (1939 – 1946).
1960s
A New Beginning for Merley House
The house and grounds were bought by the Hammick family in the 1960s. The Hammick family restored the house to its original splendour, and have been looking after it since.
1960s – present
Present Days
The house is now used for weddings, conferences and events. The grounds were developed into an owners-only holiday park and various leisure facilities were added.
Holiday Park in Wimborne
Independent & Family Owned
Merley House is an independent and family-owned holiday park with an excellent reputation. The park has been owned and managed by the Hammick family for more than 50 years. During this time, they’ve continually invested in the park and established a longstanding and trusted team. Phillip and Fiona have an excellent relationship with owners and a friendly approach to holiday home sales. This personal and home owner focused approach really sets us apart from larger holiday park groups.
Idyllic Grounds
Our holiday homes and lodges are set within the grounds of a 35-acre estate, providing an idyllic setting to relax and unwind. Merley House sits at the centre of the park, serving as an eye-catching and historical focal point.
Over the years we’ve worked hard to establish landscaped communal areas with colourful planting and mature trees. These beautiful gardens attract butterflies and birds and are a lovely place to sit.
Flexible Season Length
One of the many benefits of choosing Merley House Holiday Park is our flexible season length. Every year the park opens from 16th March to 15th February and you can choose to use your holiday home for 7.5, 10, or 11 months during this time.
Excellent On-park Facilities
We’re delighted to offer holiday home owners access to a range of on-park facilities throughout the season. These include a well-equipped leisure centre with indoor swimming pool, sauna and laundrette. Outside, there’s a beautiful terrace with sun loungers, hot tub and paddling pool. There are 2 children’s play areas with climbing frames, swings, sand pits and slides.
Convenient Dorset Location
Merley House Holiday Park is ideally situated for exploring Dorset during stays at your holiday home. The park occupies an idyllic countryside location, on the outskirts of Wimborne with easy access to A31. Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch are just a short drive away and the New Forest National Park and Jurassic Coast are both within easy reach.
‘Live like a local’ during trips to your holiday home and explore the local area at a slower pace. Enjoy leisurely breakfasts at one of the many nearby cafes and restaurants and spend your afternoons visiting the award-winning attractions on your doorstep.