Inspiration for Thomas Hardy’s Egdon Heath sold by Symonds and Sampson "The untameable, Ishmaelitish thing that Egdon now was it had always been. Civilization was its enemy: and ever since the beginning of vegetation its soil had worn the same antique brown dress, the natural and invariable garment of the particular formation. . . . The great inviolate place had an ancient permanence which the sea cannot claim."

So wrote Thomas Hardy and his relationship with the landscape has been examined at length by critics, and Egdon Heath is one of the most frequently cited and best known.

Dorset based firm of Chartered Surveyors, Symonds and Sampson’s Wimborne Office, have just completed on the sale of 220 acres of restoration heathland in the Purbecks for £660,000. Slepe Heath near Wareham has been credited with inspiring Thomas Hardy’s Egdon Heath in Return of the Native and it’s easy to see how its huge skies and striking colours could form the backdrop to a scene in one of Hardy’s works.

The dramatic landscape has been purchased by the National Trust and will be opened up to the public to enjoy the unique heathland that rises high above Poole Harbour. The land has been cleared of coniferous woodland by its previous owners, who wished to see it return to its more natural heathland state.

Not only is the site of great interest to literary fans, but also those with a keen interest in flora and fauna. The heathland plays host to the nightjar, wood lark and Dartford warbler, as well as lizards, smooth snakes and burrowing bees.

Nick Rymer of Symonds and Sampson said “This was a unique landscape and it has been a privilege to be involved in ensuring its future for the public to enjoy”

In Hardy’s Return of the Native to characters like Clym Yeobright who understand the heath, and by implication man's essentially subordinate place in nature, Egdon is home, a place to be loved. For those in Promethean revolt, like Eustacia Vye, it is a prison offering only the illusion of escape.

“We will let you decide which character the heath best characterises!

If you are thinking of selling land in the area, contact Nick Rymer at Symonds and Sampson on 01202 639 403 or your nearest Symonds and Sampson office.