Tess’s Perfect May Day at Symondsbury Estate
When we saw Tess Lathey’s Instagram reel, “Making videos until Countryfile hire me as their next presenter”, filmed at Symondsbury Estate, we knew we had to meet her. So, we were delighted when she popped back for a takeaway coffee, chat and wander around the Estate.
A Dorset local, mum-of-three, dog owner and aspiring presenter, Tess has a real knack for finding joy in the outdoors. So, we asked: what would your perfect day at Symondsbury Estate look like?
“If I’m on my own, I’d start with a facial at the Shed Hair & Beauty Salon – Fay’s hands are magic,” she said. “It’s such a treat to do something for yourself.”
“Or, if I’m with my dog, I’d grab a coffee and something delicious from the Deli, then head out for a good walk to burn off energy – then he’s happy, so I’m happy.”
After that, it’s time for a mooch. “I love the shops – the candles, stationery, toiletries… my daughters and I could spend ages here.”
For Tess, it’s the balance that makes the Estate special. “You come for a walk, then remember there’s so much more to do – suddenly it’s a whole day out. And it doesn’t have to cost a lot, which is so important with kids.”
Her children love the freedom. “They can run, explore the Holloways, climb Colmers Hill… it’s a lovely place for families. And it hasn’t been over-commercialised – it still feels natural and connected to the land.”
That connection matters. Diagnosed as autistic at 30, Tess finds the outdoors to be grounding and restorative. “Even lying on the grass for ten minutes or going for a short walk outside can help me regulate my nervous system. It won’t fix everything – but I’ll feel a little better. So, if you do that every day, that can really add up.”
And the best time to visit Symondsbury Estate? “May. Definitely May. When the wildflowers come out, there’s a special bit of magic in the air and whole place comes alive – like a little treat before the summer rush.”
This May Bank Holiday, take a leaf out of Tess’s book. Bring the dog, the kids – or just yourself – and see where the day leads.
Follow Tess on Instagram at @tesslathey.
