Stanpit nature reserve is a well kept secret, having said that the car
park off the road between Purewell and Mudeford is very often packed. An
alternative is to go to the car park behind the Council Offices or next
to the indoor bowling club, all in the same area. From
either a walk round the car park towards the right hand side of the golf
course will find a foot path to the reserve.
For those who do not walk far, from either car park the tour will be no
more than a couple of miles. For those that do build this is as part of
a longer walk to the town or Mudeford Quay.
The nature reserve is nothing more than marshland with all the wild life
you would expect. That said the path takes you round the edge of the marsh
initially then across it to the estuary and back across the marsh to within
200m of your start point.
The photographs show some of the scenes available but do not do the area
justice. It is quite, easy walking that could be almost anywhere in the
world. Views to the Priory, hengistbury Head and Mudeford Quay provide
a completely different prospective on life in this most beautiful part
of our Country.
Nowhere here to get a coffee or food, you won't be out more than a couple
of hours at most, an hour if you are quick so its not a problem. A small
bottle of water might be a good idea.
For those that are interested the estuary is tidal and a mixture of fresh
and salt water. Fishing is good but only with a licence and everything
from salmon, trout and mackerel are caught in the waters.
If your interest is in the wild birds I am afraid I know little other than
there are lots and theyall look great. Try it and see what you think.
