VISITING HENGISTBURY HEAD

Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve relies upon responsible recreational use by the public in order to continue to conserve and enhance the site for future generations to enjoy. This is increasingly important as visitor numbers now exceed 1 million annually and continue to rise, placing additional pressure on the fauna and flora through trampling, erosion, wildlife disturbance, etc. To play a part in minimizing your own impact and enhancing your enjoyment when visiting the site, please read on and adhere to the simple code of behaviour to be a responsible visitor.

•A “take your litter home” policy applies to the entire site, in that there are no bins located anywhere except within the immediate vicinity of the two cafes. Dropping litter not only visually spoils the site for future visitors but can also be harmful to much of the wildlife and contribute towards damaging fires.

•Leave the wildflowers for others to enjoy.

•During the wet weather try to avoid saturated paths as they become excessively worn and widened when navigating around puddles.

•Aim not to disturb birds and other animals by making undue noise during breeding season: especially when close to the SSSI areas as you’ll see a lot more.

•Do not attempt to feed or approach the cattle as they can be both nervous and easily intimidated by crowding around despite having a placid temperament. Always close all gates behind you to prevent cattle escaping! Click here for a link to more information about the Galloway cattle.

Click here for information regarding the Byelaws for Hengistbury Head