          |
Arne |
About Arne
A wonderful place of open heathland and old oak woodland – this habitat is rare in Britain today, but here you can enjoy its vast expanse and discover some of the special wildlife which makes its home here. We have regular children's days that enable all the family to learn about the unique nature of the heaths. And although there is no visitor centre at Arne, staff organise a range of guided walks and events to help you see some of our most exciting species – Dartford warblers nesting in the heather, nightjars flying through the dusk and as many as 22 species of rare and colourful dragonflies. Arne is a fantastic place for family walks at any time of year. 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 familiesA safe environment for family walks. No specific facilities for children. Information for dog ownersDogs 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 us01929 553360 Nearest town: Wareham, Dorset Grid reference: SY971876 DirectionsFor directions, please see our How to get here page.  |
Couple leaning on information pillar using binoculars - RSPB Images - Ben Hall (rspb-images.com)
Male wheatear in spring - Steve Round
RSPB Arne reserve - Andy Hay (rspb-images.com, Ref: 2000_1912_009 )
Bird illustrations by Mike Langman (RSPB)