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Hosted By:

Chris Pole

Walk Description:

Upton Heath is one of the largest fragments of a heath which once stretched across central

southern England from Dorchester to Christchurch.

Accessing the heath from Beacon road which has on street parking, we go downhill on gravel

paths which can be slippy after rain. Reaching the bottom end of the heath we will be on a level trailway 

to the lake, then off into woodland where the wild horses live.

We will exit the heath and make our way over to Upton Country Park.

This involves an underpass then a newly constructed pedestrian crossing which is a much safer route in

than previously.

This is an award winning country park of 160 acres of park and woodland along with formal gardens.

There is a grade II listed Georgian mansion which is currently being renovated.

Part of the walk skirts Poole harbour. There are a couple of bird hides.

On the way back we follow trails under beautiful trees which lead back up the Roman road to the top of

the heath.

Lovely views of Poole harbour and towards the Purbecks.

Just under 6 miles/ 2.5 hours. Paths down/up are quite steep. 

Plenty of roadside parking around the area nearest the heath.

We can stop at the toilets in Upton Country Park as we go past. 

Location Notes:

There is free road parking at the far end of Beacon Road cul-de-sac, near the gate to Upton Heath