Dorset's River Frome is the most westerly major chalk river in England, flowing southeast for approximately 60km from the Dorset Downs, through Dorchester and onwards to form the northern fringe of the Isle of Purbeck before entering Poole Harbour. The river is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) from Dorchester to Wareham.
The headwaters encompass four distinct river waterbodies:
- The Frome Headwaters
- The Wraxall Broo
- The Upper Frome
- The River Hooke
The headwater catchments are key to improving the whole river from source to sea.