About the reserve

A heathland oasis right on the doorstep for the people of Poole and visitors from further afield, this internationally important habitat is packed full of rare and fascinating wildlife.

A rich mosaic of dry, humid and wet heath, bog pools, ponds, grassland and woodland this reserve has plenty to offer, whether your interest is in the specialist plants and animals that live on the reserve or you just want to enjoy the sense of space that you get from being on the open heath. The heath boast all six of native reptiles including the rare sand lizard and smooth snake. If you want to spot dragonflies then this is the place to be with 16 species!

The site also gives great views across Poole Harbour, Corfe Castle and the Isle of Purbeck. Though the heathland is steeped in human-history, owing much of its undulating character to quarrying for the pottery and brick making industries that developed around the heath, it is also vulnerable to damage by man from fires, visitor impacts and pressures from the adjacent urban areas.

Keeping the Heath Healthy

This largely man-made habitat needs constant management to keep conditions optimum for the range of species and you may well see signs of scrub or bracken cutting, tree removal, creation of fire-breaks and bare sandy tracks, as well as the grazing animals we use to help keep vegetation growth in check. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved with work on the heath as we are always glad of extra pairs of hands - check out our volunteering and events pages for more information.

Useful Information

Access on foot from a number of points following the public rights of way coming onto the site. Best accessed by car from the car park at Springdale Road (accessed from Wareham Road running through Corfe Mullen) or roadside parking at the end of Longmeadow Lane (just off the A35). Some limited parking in front of the Beacon Hill Urban Wildlife Centre. Use the 'Get directions' link to see options for public transport and cycling routes.