Alder Hills - Dorset Wildlife Trust Reserve Wildlife

This Dorset Wildlife Trust reserve comprises a large lake formed from an old clay pit, surrounded by heathland, between Bournemouth and Poole.

All 6 British reptile species can be found on heathland in an urban setting on this 5 ha reserve, with grayling & green hairstreak butterflies and emperor moths on the gorse and heather. The lake attracts many dragon- & damsel-flies and visiting winter birds.
Best times to visit are: summer for the reptiles, butterflies and dragonflies; late summer for colour of heather, ling, bell heather and cross-leaved heath; winter for birds.

Opening Times

Open at all times

Costs

No charge

Directions

Turn off the A3040 (Alder Road) at Sainsbury’s supermarket (Talbot Heath branch) roundabout. Access is via steps from the Community Centre car park on the right-hand side past the petrol station.
(O.S. map reference: SZ 063 931).

Additional Information

Reserve leaflet available. Disabled access limited, due to a flight of steps. Please keep to the paths as heaths erode easily. Keep dogs under close control and on leads during the bird nesting season from April until August.
Nearest refreshments: at nearby Sainsbury’s supermarket.

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