South Poorton - Dorset Wildlife Trust Reserve Wildlife

This reserve is jointly owned by the Dorset Wildlife Trust and The Grasslands Trust; much remains as open grassland, grazed to maintain the habitat.

The 20 ha reserve provides a fine example of how pasture would have looked about 60 years ago before the advent of fertilisers and pesticides. The flora includes dwarf thistle and small scabious on the drier grassy areas and yellow iris and marsh arrow grass on the boggy ground adjacent to the stream. Mammals that have been recorded include dormouse, harvest mouse and badger; amongst the birds, goldfinch and linnet are seen with the occasional wheatear passing through in the spring. The strip lynchets around the hidden village of South Poorton provide evidence of how the steeply sloping hillsides were once terraced for agriculture.
Spring and summer are probably the best times to visit, but go at any time.

Opening Times

Open at all times

Costs

No charge

Directions

Turn off the A356 at the Rampisham masts and head three miles south-west, alternatively take the road north out of Powerstock for a mile to reach South Poorton. Access to the reserve is on the left side of the narrow, winding road leading out to the west of the village (Ridgeback Lane). There is a small car-park on the reserve.
(O.S. reference: SY 513 977)

Additional Information

Disabled access is limited due to the steep slopes and boggy ground, particularly after heavy rain.
Keep dogs under close control.

Nearest refreshments/pub: Powerstock

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