12th October 2011

BEAMINSTER: Mapperton records highest visitor numbers

Mapperton Gardens has announced a record number of annual visitors - higher than in any previous year.

The total number of visitors reached 11,500 by the end of September, compared with 10,599 a year earlier, and is likely to exceed 12,000 by the end of October when the gardens close. A recent questionnaire suggested that whilst one in ten visitors lived within 10 miles, nearly half had travelled over 100 miles to West Dorset.

Mapperton has recorded visitor numbers since 1991 when 4,778 came to the gardens. Over 20 years an increasing number have been attracted by the opening of Mapperton House, the Sawmill Café and the holding of special events such as concerts and plant fairs. In 2011, 896 individuals visited Mapperton House during open days in July and August and on Bank Holidays, and many more came in organised tours.

The gardens have been shortlisted in the inaugural Hudson’s Heritage Awards in the category of “Best Garden” which will be announced ata ceremony in London on November 15th.

BEAMINSTER: Mapperton records highest visitor numbers

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