Enjoy a free day out at Canford Heath this summer

If you’re looking for a free, family-friendly day out this summer, Canford Heath is right on the doorstep — and it’s one of the most special natural spaces in the country.

Covering 344 hectares, Canford Heath is the biggest area of urban heathland in Dorset, and the largest lowland urban heath in the United Kingdom. That means there’s plenty of space to stretch your legs, enjoy the fresh air, and spend a few hours exploring without spending a penny.

What you can see on the heath

Visitors can follow the heath’s network of paths and bridleways, keeping an eye out for some of the area’s rare wildlife. Species you might spot include:

• Dragonflies and damselflies
• Dartford warblers
• Nightjars

The heath is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and it’s home to all six of the UK’s native reptiles:

• Grass snakes
• Adders
• Smooth snakes
• Slow worms
• Common lizards
• Sand lizards

If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of one basking near the paths during a walk or bike ride.

Rangers protecting the heath (and how you can help)

BCP Council’s team of rangers work across Canford Heath and other sites to protect the ecology and encourage responsible behaviour from visitors.

Bryony Jenner, a Heathland Mitigation Ranger at BCP Council, said Canford Heath is ideal for escaping the busy day-to-day:

“Canford Heath is a beautiful site for getting out, looking at nature and getting away from the concrete and hustle and bustle. It’s peaceful. There’s lots of trails and walks… Everything shines on a clear day, and you could walk for hours.”

She also highlighted how rare it is to have all six native reptiles in one place, adding that visitors could sometimes see reptiles near the paths.

Cllr Andy Hadley, Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy, said council teams do an excellent job maintaining and protecting the habitat and asked the public to treat it with care while enjoying the sunshine. He also described the heath as a great option for families looking to get outdoors and away from crowds and screens.

Important guidance for visitors

To help protect wildlife and keep the heath safe for everyone, visitors are asked to follow a few key rules:

• Keep dogs on leads during bird breeding season (1 March to 31 July), as rare birds nest on the ground
• Stick to designated footpaths and trails
• Take litter home
• Cyclists should use the network of bridleways
• Bring a picnic — but fires and barbecues are strictly forbidden due to the risk of wildfires

Find events on the heath

To see upcoming events on the heath, visit: BCP Council - Poole’s Heathland