Canford Heath is one of the largest remaining areas of heathland in Dorset retaining the atmosphere of a wilderness. The area is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and protected under UK law and European conservation directives.
The Heath’s special wildlife includes all the British reptile species and rare birds such as the Dartford Warbler and Nightjar. Wetter areas provide a home for a range of dragonflies and special plants adapted to the wet conditions.
Special management of the Heath is necessary to maintain its conservation interest – self sown pine and birch trees would otherwise crowd out the characteristic heathers on which much of the special heathland wildlife depends.
Dogs may be required to be on lead at times on part or whole of the site, due to breeding birds and grazing animals. At other times they may be able to be off lead. Check on site for further information.
Park at the lay-by on Gravel Hill, 200m south of Poole Crematorium at Dunyeats Roundabout, Broadstone, Nr Wimborne, Dorset.