Happy birthday Compton Acres! The sBig Article Search tunning historic gardens in Poole marks its 100th anniversary in 2020, and is inviting everyone to join the celebrations with a series of vintage weekends Compton Acres in Poole is planning to hosting a series of three 1920s-themed weekends of celebration later in the year, as part of a year of festivities to mark the 100-year anniversary of these stunning gardens in Poole.

Back in 1920 their creation cost in the region of £220,000 – the equivalent of £10 million in today’s money. Now, 100 years on, this 10-acre ornamental garden, located a stone’s throw from the much-lauded Sandbanks Peninsula, is recognised as one of the most important in England.

To mark this special milestone the gardens, in Canford Cliffs, Poole, is hosting a series of centenary weekends on dates later in the year, with afternoon teas, special lunches and live jazz.

In homage to the garden’s origins, Compton Acres’ café will be decked out in 1920s décor, with memorabilia on display, while staff will be wearing a classic ‘nippy’ uniform of a black dress, white apron and white hat as they serve.

Outside the gardeners will don the traditional waistcoats and flat caps of their historic predecessors, and the plant centre will host a display of vintage tools. A display of cacti and succulents will spell out ‘100’ outside the Harbourview Café, and Compton Acres is also seeking to source a special centenary rose from David Austin Roses to mark the occasion.

Visitors are also being encouraged to get into the spirit of the celebrations and wear 1920s attire as well.

“Our centenary is the perfect opportunity to celebrate everything Compton Acres has to offer, as well as to share the story of its origins in the 1920s, and the many transformations the gardens have been through over the past century," says Bernard Merna, co-owner of Compton Acres.

“It is a very special moment in our history and we want to share it with our customers and the community which supports us so well. We hope as many as possible will come along and join in the fun!”

Compton Acres is comprised of five uniquely beautiful gardens laid out across a circular route: the grand Italian Gardens with its formal planting, sculptures and columns; the Wooded Valley characterised by meandering paths, cascading water and natural charm; the Rock and Water Garden, an outstanding example of the Arts and Crafts style of landscape design; The Heather Garden, where hardy plants and statues provide year-round appeal; and the spectacular Japanese Garden with its red tea house and Koi carp-stocked pool, traversed with stepping stones.

Compton Acres, Canford Cliffs Road, Poole

01202 700778

comptonacres.co.uk