History & Development
Unfold the captivating history of times gone by, the rich heritage of the Jurassic Coast and the Marshwood Vale, in an area that has been universally recognised and protected due to the astounding beauty of its landscapes, coastlines, hills and history.
History
The name Wootton Fitzpaine derives from ‘wodetone’: meaning a ‘wooded place’, and ‘Fitzpaine’: the manorial family of the village. Farming has existed here for millennia and the life force of many years past is unequivocally and exquisitely intertwined in the land on which we reside.
The gentle scurries of small creatures throughout the woodlands send whispers of ancient trees, planted long ago. The hillside is shaped, carved, by the horse-drawn implements of centuries past and the dry stone walls that were once the humble refuge for many a farmer, still stand, steadfast.
The history of this area lies deep, embedded with ancient tracks, sculpted by the woods, pastureland, tilled earth and ever-changed by thousands of years of settlement by humans.
Development of Louma
Spence Farm was bought by the Steyn family in 2019 as a family home. Within weeks of exploring the 100-acre patch of earth, it became clear that it needed to be shared far and wide. It was always meant to be a patch of earth that had the ability to bring people back to themselves time and time again.
From its conception to opening, over almost four years, Louma slowly grew into what is now a vibrant and luxurious Retreat with endless opportunities for wellness and discovery of nature thriving in the most meaningful way.
It was no simple achievement, but the outcome is a testament to an incredible team and their unwavering dedication. Louma’s legacy is in our people and our people are connected to the land. We co-exist together.
Farming in Wootton Fitzpaine
Our village has long been farming, since 3500 years ago when locals would use oxen to pull their ploughs. In present day, the farming community still thrives in our twee village; abundant with small holdings and woodlands surrounding them.
Regenerative farming combines the old ways and the new, allowing us the preserve the land, build soil health and increase biodiversity using modern methods and old fashioned sense.
-
![View of the Louma Vineyard from Above dorset]()
Stone Age to the Norman Conquest
Discover the deep history of our West Dorset, from the time of the building of Stone Henge, to the Norman Conquest that shaped England.
-
![Louma Building our entrance track]()
Development of Louma - Part 1: Learning the Land
When Louma’s founders discovered Spence Farm, they saw that it was a magical place to be enjoyed by many. Follow the development of Louma to a diverse and sumptuous family retreat.
From the Iron age to the Norman Landing
From stone-age artifacts, ancient beasts and primitive farming techniques, to sling-shot battles, native tribes and Viking raiders, this land has been long inhabited, long desired by Kings, Jarls and tribesmen alike, and its inhabitants conquered many times over.
The history of West Dorset is rich and complex, steeped in the culture and shaped by the good earth. Discover more about the origins of the iron-age hillforts within walking distance of the farm, and walk the ancient tracks that once connected these bustling villages of old on our Louma Journal.
