This property of the week features more than one acre of award-winning gardens.

Island Cottage in Upwey is surrounded by beautiful gardens that have been recognised in both 2001 and 2003 as the John Booker Cup’s ‘Best Garden in Weymouth for Design and Content.’

Dorset Echo: Island CottageIsland Cottage (Image: Domvs)

The gardens run alongside the River Wey and the tranquil sounds of water running by have been described as ‘heavenly.’

Dorset Echo: Island CottageIsland Cottage (Image: Domvs)

The property itself is full of character with an abundance of gorgeous flowers and foliage cascading the outside.

Dorset Echo: Island CottageIsland Cottage (Image: Domvs)

Another exciting factor of the grade II listed stone-built cottage is an additional detached two-bedroom bungalow within the grounds that has plenty of Airbnb potential.

The countryside property in Upwey is on the market for an impressive £1.5m.

Polly Greenway, CEO of Domvs said: “The home is enchanting, but it’s the garden that takes centre stage. It is, quite simply, heavenly.

“To hear the river running by as you walk under the pergola or stroll through the scented shrubberies must be one of the dearest pleasures in life.

Dorset Echo: Island CottageIsland Cottage (Image: Domvs)

“The garden has been creatively designed so its secrets are revealed as you wander around, with another highlight being a garden lodge tucked away in a sun-lit position, making for a wonderful summer’s entertaining spot.”

A barbecue lodge is also tucked away in a sun-lit position, creating a wonderful entertaining space.

Dorset Echo: Island CottageIsland Cottage (Image: Domvs)

The Victorian greenhouse will appeal to the green-fingered, as will the addition of a more modern greenhouse.

There are also two stone outbuildings close to the cottage and a colourful planting of trees which is a great place to watch the ducks that pay regular visits.

The current owners said: “We bought this house, not just because of the versatile, generous living space, but also because it is located in one of Dorset’s prettiest, most unspoilt villages, and is such a tranquil place to live. The adjoining bungalow has served us well for family and friends visiting over the years and we have so many wonderful memories of being out in the garden.

“We were honoured to be awarded the best garden in Weymouth and have our hard work recognised. The competition no longer runs, but our commitment to retaining and creating a space that extends beyond a collection of plants and flowers has continued in the years since.

“Our garden reflects our love for nature, and we hope that the new owners will continue to nurture and enjoy every aspect as much as we have in our 23 years of living here.”

Inside, the property named Island Cottage there are some unexpectedly high ceilings, four bedrooms, three bathrooms and copious rooms on the ground floor.

Dorset Echo: Island CottageIsland Cottage (Image: Domvs)

There is also a spectacular inglenook fireplace in the dining room which gives the room an abundance of character and coziness.