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Arne

Arne
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About Arne

Dartford warbler perching on heather

This is an unusual and special landscape where you can enjoy a vast expanse of open heathland and old oak woodland. Arne is a fantastic place for family walks at any time of year and we have regular children's days that enable all the family to learn about the unique nature of the heaths.

There is a variety of special wildlife to see. In summer look out for Dartford warblers nesting in the heather, nightjars flying at dusk and as many as 22 species of colourful dragonflies. The reserve overlooks Poole Harbour where you can watch thousands of wading birds, ducks and geese including avocets, black-tailed godwits and brent geese in winter. Ospreys are regularly seen on migration in late summer and in autumn.

In April 2009 a new eco-friendly information centre was constructed. Complete with seasonal nest cameras, a wood burner and information about the reserve, it acts as a warm welcome to Arne. RSPB staff organise a range of guided walks and events to help you see some of our most exciting species.

Opening times

The Shipstal and Coombes trails are open at all times; car park locked at dusk

Entrance charges

Entry charges per car: £2 for up to two hours, £4 for over two hours. Free entry for members - display membership card on car dashboard.

If you are new to birdwatching...

For people new to birdwatching, Arne offers a chance to see the speciality birds found on heathlands like the Dartford warbler (all year) and the nightjar (summer only). The reserve's location within Poole Harbour will allow you to get to grips with a variety of wading birds and wildfowl (ducks, geese and swans), the best times being during the spring/autumn passage and the winter months. Birds of prey are well represented, with peregrines, ospreys, and marsh and hen harriers seen regularly. A number of themed guided walks are run through the year to look for some of these birds.

Information for families

A safe environment for family walks. No specific facilities for children.

Information for dog owners

Dogs are allowed anywhere. Dogs must be under close control at all times. They must be kept on a short lead while on Open Access ground between 1 March and 31 August and when near farm animals all year-round.

Contact us

01929 553360

Nearest town: Wareham, Dorset

Grid reference: SY971876

Directions

For directions, please see our How to get here page.