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Hosted By:

Chris Pole

Walk Description:

A walk across a nature reserve and a SSSI managed by the National Trust. From the carpark we can

explore on wide paths and some smaller paths in any direction.

Acquired in the 1630's by Sir John Bankes as part of the Kingston Lacy estate the heath is an important

lowland heath which is one of the largest areas of its type in Dorset. 

Rich in flora and fauna, home to the dartford warbler, curlew, stone chat and nightjar.

Buzzards, Hen Harriers and Merlin are sometimes seen.

There are 400 hectares, at certain times of the year cattle roam to control the scrub allowing rare plants

to flourish.

This is only 15% of what for thousands of years was ancient heathland east and north east of

Wimborne. 

Although low lying there are some far reaching views towards Hengistbury Head and the IOW.

Often muddy in winter. Ground undulating.

Short track to carpark which is bumpy.

Walk around 5 miles in length and takes about two hours. Today's version

explores some lesser known bridleways in beautiful Ferndown forest at the back of Whitesheet/Holt

heath. This is on narrow tracks and some quiet road walking so paws needed on poles.

We will start and finish the walk on the heath itself.

There is an interesting initiative by Forestry England to restore mire habitat on Whitesheet as part of the

Dorset Peat Partnership Project. This is being funded by Natural England. There is further work going on

locally which we can see on other walks. The Uddens work party of volunteers are working with Forestry

England on this project.

There are no toilets but Stewarts garden centre is close by or the Dairy cafe at Rowe Hill Farm, Rowe Hill

is a couple of minutes drive away.

Crossing back over the A31 turning right is tricky, so there is a route along country roads to Colehill 

then down to Canford Bottom roundabout or into Wimborne. Ask if directions needed.

Dogs on leads throughout the ground nesting bird season. Occasionally deer are seen.

Location Notes:

From Whitemoor head up the hill past Pilmore Growers then sharp right along a small bumpy lane to a large carpark under the trees at White Sheet. No facilities but Stewarts garden centre Broomhill in God's blessing lane is 5 mins away.