Arne RSPB reserve

Arne RSPB reserve lies on the Arne Peninsula that juts into Poole Harbour in Dorset. The site covers 5.634 square kilometres and is managed by the RSPB. It was notified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1986 and includes nationally important estuarine reedbeds. The nearest village is Arne itself, while Wareham is the closest town. The reserve’s varied habitats stretch from lowland heath to salt marsh and woodland. The reserve is recognised for its rare Dorset heath and breeding Dartford warblers. Acid grassland, salt marsh and oak woodland provide homes for nightjar, woodlark and spoonbill on the mudflats. Over 500 species of vascular plant have been recorded since 1966. A notable feature is the herd of sika deer that escaped from deer parks in the 1860s and now live across the heath and woodland. Arne’s natural environment has drawn national attention through BBC programmes such as Countryfile and Springwatch. Visitors follow paths through lowland heath where Dorset heath thrives. Reedbeds border the harbour’s mudflats, offering views of spoonbills feeding. Oak woodland and acid grassland provide sheltered routes for nightjar and woodlark. The sika deer herd can often be seen grazing on the open heath. Interpretation boards explain the reserve’s habitats and species. The landscape’s quiet beauty makes it a place for careful observation and peaceful walks.