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Main Instructor:

Chris Pole

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. Ground undulating.

Short track to carpark.

Walk around 5 miles in length. Today's version, Nov 2024, explores some lesser known bridleways in

beautiful forest at the back of Whitesheet before finishing the walk on the heath.

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.

There are no toilets but Stewarts garden centre is close by. The Old Dairy Cafe is a couple of minutes

past Whitesheet and has a toilet outside. There are pubs quite near for lunch as an alternative.

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. I can if needed

guide you out.

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.