Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre by Vicky Ashby

Volunteering at Lorton Meadows by Sam Dallimore

Children pond dipping at Lorton Meadows by Katharine Davies

Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre

The Lorton Meadows Nature Reserve is open all year around. Visit our outside classroom to plan your day exploring the nature reserve using our guides and maps.

Please note that the Conservation Centre is only open for pre-arranged events. Please see the link to our events page below to stay up to date.

Location

Lorton Lane

Weymouth

Dorset

DT3 5QH

OS Map Reference

SY675826

Know before you go

Size

75 hectares

Entry fee

None

Parking information

Car park at conservation Centre

Bicycle parking

Yes

Grazing animals

Please be aware that we have cattle (cows and a bull) on the reserve throughout the year. Please see below for map for more information.

Walking trails

Network of marked paths including nature trails and the Legacy Trial (Lorton to Portland Bill) - leaflets available from Centre.

Access

Please be aware that we have cattle (cows and a bull) on the reserve throughout the year. Please refrain from walking your dog through the meadow(s) marked with a red dog traffic light. For more information, please see the posters and leaflets at the Conservation Centre and signs on the field gates. Below is a map of the areas affected and more information about the dog traffic light system operating on the reserve.

Find out more about the Lorton Meadows Nature Reserve here.

There are gates at most entrances. Unsurfaced paths (apart from around the conservation centre). Disabled access and toilets at the conservation centre (Please note opening times).

Take precautions against ticks.

Dogs

Under effective control

On a lead or under effective control. There are cows and a bull on site throughout the year – please keep your distance, observe the Dog Traffic Light signs on gates and check/pick up a map from the Conservation Centre. For a printable version of the lea

Facilities

Picnic area

Outdoor play area

When to visit

Opening times

The Lorton Meadows Nature Reserve is open all year around. Visit our outside classroom to plan your day exploring the nature reserve using our guides and maps. The Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre will open for practical tasks and public events only. To keep up-to-date with events visit the link below.

For more information about the Lorton Meadows visitor centre, please phone the Chesil Centre on 01305 206191 or email chesilbeach@dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk

Best time to visit

Spring and summer for flowers, insects and birds.

About the reserve

Drop in to the outside classroom to plan your day exploring the nature reserve using our guides and maps.

The picnic area and outdoor classroom are the perfect places for lunch whatever the weather (please take all your rubbish home). Children can have fun on our wildlife inspired play area and there’s plenty of information to help you explore the reserve in the outdoor classroom.

For information about the reserve, including maps, nature trails, access, species and habitats, please see the Lorton Meadows Nature Reserve page.

Please note, some facilities are only available when participating in arranged events and practical tasks.

Facilities when visiting the Nature Reserve:
Guides and maps in the outside classroom
Picnic area
Nearest public toilet 10 minute drive
Outdoor play area

Facilities at pre-arranged events and practical tasks:
Visitor centre
Toilets
Accessible toilet
Baby changing facilities

You can also see details of any upcoming events here.

Help make a difference to your local wildlife by volunteering: you could assist us in the Centre, welcoming visitors, help with our events programme or join us for Volunteer Conservation Tasks and surveying the reserve. Please contact us on 01305 206191 to find out more.

Habitat

Contact us

The South Team Reserves Manager

Contact number: 01305 206191 (Chesil Centre)

Contact email: chesilbeach@dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk

See Reserve's Twitter

See Reserve's Facebook

See Reserve's Flickr

Environmental designation

Site of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI)

Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)

Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre Map — Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre

Visitor Information - Grazing Cattle at Lorton Meadows

Please see below for a link to the Lorton Meadows dog traffic light guidance leaflet and a map with the areas affected by grazing cattle.

Lorton Meadows dog walking traffic light guide

Lorton Meadows Dog Walking Traffic Light Guidance Document

Education at Lorton Meadows

Whether it's searching for minibeasts, pond dipping, identifying trees, or getting stuck into a practical task, we have a range of learning opportunities for Key Stage 1- 4, that can be tailored to suit individual groups. Download the education opportunities leaflet below and contact us to discuss your requirements. For A Level or Higher Education groups please contact us on 01305 206191.