Arne Wildlife

A vast expanse of open heathland and old oak woodland, sweeping down to the waters of Poole Harbour, featuring panoramic viewpoints and easy-to-use paths and trails.

Arne is a great place for a hearty family walk at all times of year, though the sandy ground can be challenging for buggies and wheelchairs!

In summer, the landscape is dominated by swathes of purple heather, home to rare and unusual wildlife, while in winter flocks of waders and wildfowl swirl across the shallow waters of the harbour. Herds of sika deer can be seen all year round.

Although there is no visitor centre at Arne, staff organise a range of guided walks and events to help you see the special wildlife of the heaths - Dartford warblers nesting in the heather, nightjars flying through the dusk and a range of rare and colourful dragonflies.

Children's days enable all the family to learn about the unique nature of the heaths.

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.

Opening Times

The reserve is open at all times. However, the car park is locked from dusk to approx 8.00 am

Costs

Car park charges for non-members:
October 1st to March 31st: £2-00 per vehicle.
April 1st to September 30th: £2-00 for up to 2 hours, £4-00 for more than 2 hours.
There are no parking charges for RSPB members

Directions

By road
From Wareham town centre, head south over the causeway to Stoborough. Arne is signposted from here - the car park is located at the beginning of the village.

Nearest railway station
Wareham (4 miles/6.5 km from reserve)

Nearest bus stop
Stoborough Village (3 miles/5 km from reserve)

Sustrans cycle route
View National Cycle Map

Other ways to get to the reserve
The Purbeck Cycleway passes within 1.5 miles/2 km of the car park.

Additional Information

This is a natural site with unimproved paths and trails - the access around this site may not be suitable for all visitors. If you have concerns, please contact the reserve or regional office before your visit to discuss your requirements.

During dry periods at any time of year, there may be a fire risk and all visitors are asked to be especially careful with cigarettes and naked flames. Dogs must be kept on a lead.

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

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