The Dovecote dominates a large lawn between the the house and River Piddle. The Oak hammer-beam roof is topped with a Cedar lantern with landing stages for forty doves, topped with eighteenth century lead bearing many names and dates including that of Thomas Hardy.

There is room inside the dovecote for 1500 doves to nest. Doves were re-introduced to the dovecote in 2003 and are breeding succesfully. A fine view North Wing of the house can be seen from here. A yew hedge flanks the Yew Walk which leads to River Cottage.

The Toll House can be found beyond the Canal Garden and marks the edge of the old A35. The Toll House was restored after the Puddletown bypass was opened in 1998. The building provided a home for the Keeper and his family. A small cottage garden has been laid out to compliment the structure. 

Across the A35 stands the Church of St John, built in 1862 as a way of moving the old parish church away from the house. The church was designed by the Dorchester architect 'Hicks' who employed Thomas Hardy at the time.

The Church was acquired the Church with its pews and most of the Grave Yard in 1984 after the church had fallen into disrepair having been made redundant by the Church of England in 1975.

The Church is now used by the Greek Orthodox under the Patronage of St Edward King and Martyr. A good congregation meet at the church and at Christmas hold a delightful Carol Service.

Crossing the Piddle beyond the Octagonal Pond is a low Iron Bridge that crossed the river and gives access to the River Walk. Constructed in the winter of 2003 the river walk provides a gentle walk through a natural habitat. a View across the rear lawn to the house shows a vista that encompasses each age of building from 1485 through to the 1920's

The Coach House dominates the Car Park area in is the setting for the Shop, Reception, Restaurants and Visitor Services. The Thatched building has had many uses since it was built in the c17, a sawmill, stables and garages, until it was restored in 1995.

Within the Coach House are the plates from the Hall Class locomotive 'Athelhampton Hall'. A Great Western train built in Swindon in 1947 No 6971, for Passenger / Freight service.

For the full text and detail please see our Guide Book