Top Nature Reserves in Dorset

Dorset is a haven for nature lovers with some of the best nature reserves in Dorset. Here is our list of nature reserves, selected for their rich biodiversity, family-friendly features, and unique habitats.

These reserves are managed by organisations like Dorset Wildlife Trust, RSPB, and National Trust, and offer opportunities to spot rare wildlife, enjoy scenic walks, and engage in conservation activities.

1. Arne Nature Reserve (RSPB) – Poole Harbour
• Why: A stunning mix of heathland, oak woodland, mudflats, and wetlands within the Dorset National Landscape. Home to all six UK native reptiles, Dartford warblers, nightjars, and wading birds like spoonbills. Featured on BBC’s Autumnwatch and Winterwatch.
• Family-Friendly Features: Pushchair-friendly paths, backpacks for kids (£3.50) with bug pots and binoculars, and a café with tempting cakes. Accessible toilets and a four-space car park for those with mobility needs (permit from Welcome Hut).
• Activities: Explore heathland trails, spot seals from the shoreline, or visit bird hides. Guided birding walks (e.g., 7 May 2025, book via Dorset Wildlife Trust).
• Access: Near Wareham, BH20 5BJ. Free for RSPB members; non-members pay ~£5/adult. Car park open 8:30 AM-dusk (no height barriers). Dogs on short leads on designated trails.
• Tips: Best for nightjars in summer (May-August). Arrive early to avoid crowds. Check café hours before visiting.
2. Brownsea Island – Poole Harbour
• Why: A National Trust island with a Dorset Wildlife Trust-managed lagoon, hosting over 200 red squirrels, sika deer, and birds like avocets and spoonbills. Winner of BBC Countryfile’s Nature Reserve of the Year 2013-14.
• Family-Friendly Features: Flat trails, a café with delicious cakes, and a dinosaur trail for kids. Boat trips add adventure (wrap up warm; crossings can be chilly).
• Activities: Walk woodland paths, visit the harbour nature reserve, or join red squirrel spotting tours. Allow 3+ hours to explore.
• Access: Ferry from Poole Quay (BH15 1HJ, ~£8/adult, book ahead). National Trust entry: ~£9/adult, free for members. Paid parking at Poole. No dogs.
• Tips: Bring binoculars for birdwatching.
3. Kingcombe National Nature Reserve – West Dorset
• Why: A 5.5-hectare haven with over 250 wildflower species, managed by Dorset Wildlife Trust. Features ancient meadows, hedgerows, and a main lake supporting migrating species. Declared a National Nature Reserve in 2021.
• Family-Friendly Features: Gravel paths with seating, an outside classroom at the Kingcombe Visitor Centre, and family events like birding workshops (e.g., 7 May 2025).
• Activities: Wander wildflower meadows, spot butterflies, or relax by the lake. Join guided walks to learn about conservation.
• Access: Near Toller Porcorum, DT2 0EQ. Free entry; donations welcomed. Limited parking; no dogs to protect wildlife.
• Tips: Spring is ideal for wildflowers. Check www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk for event schedules. Bring a picnic.
4. Durlston Country Park National Nature Reserve – Swanage
• Why: A 340-acre coastal reserve with sea cliffs, limestone downland, and over 2,000 wildlife species, including 500+ wildflowers and seabirds like guillemots. One of the UK’s best butterfly-watching spots.
• Family-Friendly Features: Waymarked trails, picnic spots, and the Fine Foundation Gallery for kids’ art activities. The café serves local dishes.
• Activities: Follow five nature trails, join dolphin-watching tours, or explore the historic Great Globe. Birdwatching is superb in spring.
• Access: Near Swanage, BH19 2JL. Free entry; paid parking (~£3/day). Dogs on leads. Accessible paths available.
• Tips: The UK’s longest rope bridge adds thrill for older kids.
5. Studland and Godlingston Heath National Nature Reserve – Studland
• Why: Part of the Purbeck Heaths “Super” National Nature Reserve, this reserve features sand dunes, heathland, and views of Old Harry Rocks. Home to all six native reptiles and rare invertebrates like the Purbeck mason wasp.
• Family-Friendly Features: Flat trails from Knoll Beach, a play area, and a National Trust café. Safe swimming at Studland Bay.
• Activities: Walk to Old Harry Rocks, follow nature trails, or spot sand lizards. Family events hosted by National Trust.
• Access: Near Studland, BH19 3AH. Free entry; National Trust parking free for members (~£4/day otherwise). Dogs on leads.
• Tips: Combine with a beach day for variety.
6. Chesil Bank and Fleet Nature Reserve – Weymouth
• Why: A unique shingle beach and lagoon, managed by Ilchester Estates and Dorset Wildlife Trust, hosting rare plants and wading birds. Ideal for coastal wildlife enthusiasts.
• Family-Friendly Features: The Fine Foundation Wild Chesil Centre offers maps and guides. Flat paths suit pushchairs, though pebbles can be tricky.
• Activities: Birdwatch from hides, explore the lagoon, or join guided walks. Spring migrations bring diverse species.
• Access: Near Abbotsbury, DT3 4LA. Free entry; parking ~£2-£5. Dogs on leads. Visitor centre open daily in April.
• Tips: Visit the centre first for trail advice. Bring sturdy shoes for shingle walking.
7. Upton Heath Nature Reserve – Poole
• Why: A Dorset Wildlife Trust reserve with lowland heath and woodland, home - Why: A vibrant heathland supporting rare species like dormice and otters. Recent restoration efforts combat fire risks, making it a conservation success.
• Family-Friendly Features: Wide trails for pushchairs, seating areas, and volunteer-led family activities (e.g., habitat restoration workshops).
• Activities: Spot wildlife on guided tours, explore Roman roads, or join conservation events. Spring is ideal for wildflowers.
• Access: Near Corfe Mullen, BH21 3HR. Free entry; limited parking. Dogs on leads.
• Tips: Wear sturdy boots after rain.
8. Lorton Meadows Nature Reserve – Weymouth
• Why: A peaceful reserve with meadows, wet woodland, and river views, managed by Dorset Wildlife Trust. Home to otters and diverse insects.
• Family-Friendly Features: Meadow Barn Conservation Centre with guides and maps. Flat trails suit families; picnic areas available.
• Activities: River watching, insect spotting, or exploring the outside classroom. Family events year-round.
• Access: Near Weymouth, DT4 7SX. Free entry; free parking. No dogs. Open daily.
• Tips: Bring a magnifying glass for kids to explore insects. Spring is best for otters.
9. Steamer Point Nature Reserve – Christchurch
• Why: A unique reserve combining woodland walks with coastal views near Highcliffe Beach. Praised for its biodiversity, including butterflies and birds.
• Family-Friendly Features: Wide concrete paths for pushchairs, a viewing platform, and access to a quiet beach via rickety stairs. Kid-friendly trails.
• Activities: Birdwatch, explore the forest, or relax on the beach. Sunset views are stunning (~8:33 PM in April).
• Access: Near Christchurch, BH23 4AB. Free entry; ample parking. Dogs on leads.
• Tips: Avoid the derelict offices at the entrance. Venture off the main path for hidden beach access.
10. Tout Quarry Nature Reserve and Sculpture Park – Portland
• Why: A former quarry on the Isle of Portland, now a Dorset Wildlife Trust reserve with over 60 sculptures, wildflowers, and butterflies. A unique blend of art and nature.
• Family-Friendly Features: Rocky but manageable paths for older kids, seating spots, and sculptures that spark curiosity.
• Activities: Explore sculptures like Anthony Gormley’s ‘Still Falling’, spot butterflies, or enjoy coastal views. Guided art-and-nature walks available.
• Access: Near Portland, DT5 2EG. Free entry; limited parking. Dogs on leads.
• Tips: Wear sturdy shoes for uneven terrain. Check Dorset Wildlife Trust for walk schedules.

Planning Your Visit

• Weather: Dorset enjoys ~1,800 sunshine hours yearly, but spring can be wet. Pack waterproofs and sturdy shoes. Heathlands (Arne, Upton) are drier; coastal reserves (Durlston, Chesil) can be windy. 
• Accessibility: Arne, Brownsea, and Steamer Point offer pushchair-friendly paths and accessible facilities. Durlston and Kingcombe have flat sections; Tout Quarry and Studland are rockier. Call ahead for mobility aids (e.g., Arne’s shuttle bus).

Tailored Recommendations

• For Young Kids: Brownsea (dinosaur trail, café) and Lorton Meadows (flat trails, classroom) are engaging and accessible. Avoid Tout Quarry’s uneven paths.
• For Older Kids/Teens: Arne (reptile spotting, backpacks) and Durlston (rope bridge, dolphin tours) offer adventure. Studland’s beach adds fun.
• For Birdwatchers: Arne, Brownsea, and Chesil are top spots for waders and seabirds. Bring binoculars and join guided walks.
• For Quiet Retreats: Kingcombe and Lorton Meadows offer serene escapes. Visit early morning for solitude.