Lyscombe NNR comprises 334 hectares of chalk grassland, ancient woodland, and heritage features, including 50 hectares of nationally important Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) chalk downland.
Acquired by Dorset Wildlife Trust in partnership with Natural England in 2024, the site is already home to rich chalk grassland flora, including at least six different species of orchid such as the pyramidal orchids and bee orchids, as well as rare chalkhill blue butterflies and a wealth of other wildlife.
With its nationally important chalk downland habitats, the site has the potential to act as a significant area for nature recovery across the wider 5,700-hectare Dorset Downs landscape, creating bigger, better and more connected spaces for wildlife.
Nature recovery combines traditional conservation management such as introducing English Longhorn cattle whose grazing helps maintain chalk grasslands, prevent scrub encroachment and enhance biodiversity. This extensive grazing and natural regeneration restore wildlife at a landscape scale while protecting the site's heritage and habitats.
Dorset Wildlife Trust is working with neighbouring farmers and landowners to expand the recovery of nature and its benefits, for growth health and security, beyond the reserve's boundaries, contributing to the UK Government's wider goal, of seeing 30% of UK land and sea protected for nature by 2030.
The site's striking landscape also offers rich opportunities for public engagement. With access via existing rights of way and a car park at the site entrance, Lyscombe will welcome visitors and volunteers to connect with nature and take part in its restoration.
