Hengistbury Head

About

Hengistbury Head is a fantastic place to visit, it is not only a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) but also a wonderful place to enjoy peaceful walks, breathtaking views, wide open spaces and a fascinating exhibition about how this headland was formed. Hengistbury head is a headland that juts out into the English Channel between Bournemouth and Mudeford in Dorset, and is an ideal stopping point if travelling between the South East and South West. 

Located not far from Christchurch, this beautiful nature reserve offers the chance to marvel at the wonderful views of Christchurch Harbour, Bournemouth Bay and across to the Isle of Wight, enjoy the sea breezes and fresh air, and explore the array of walking and cycling paths that stretch across the 142 hectacres.

This stunning nature reserve is home to a wide variety of habitats including dunes, salt marshes and reed beds which have become home to over 500 plant species, 300 types of birds, a superb variety of insects, reptiles and small mammals – adders, skylarks, sand-lizards and natterjack toads (one of Britain’s rarest creatures).

There is a 5.8km circular walk around the nature reseve which takes about 1 1/2 to complete, there is also a fun dog walking trail which will keep both owner and dog entertained. 

Hengistbury Head is also home to an unspoilt beach, imposing clay and ironstone cliffs, the colourful Mudeford beach huts. Make a stop on your visit to the Hiker Cafe, explore the visitor centre and with plenty of parking at both ends of the site, it is easy to reach from Bournemouth or Christchurc.