Kingcombe Nature Reserve

Kingcombe is a 450 acre Nature Reserve in the Dorset countryside, with winding country lanes, unspoilt countryside and delightful rivers. The Visitor Centre is a place to be inspired and to relax. There are bird hides, orchards, a boardwalk along the edge of the River Hooke and wildlife-friendly gardens. The tearoom is open from March until December for refreshments, cake or a light lunch, or visitors are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy in the grounds.

Kingcombe incorporates Kingcombe Meadows and Powerstock Common Nature Reserve, with its ancient woodland and spring bluebells. The Nature Reserve spans the full width of the River Hooke valley. There are courses on offer at the Kingcombe Centre, including photography, archeology, art and astronomy.

The reserve is managed by Dorset Wildlife Trust and is used as a working farm grazed by sheep and cows using traditional methods, the result of which is a patchwork of fields and grasslands, broken up by thick hedges, ponds, lanes, woodland and streams. The wildflowers are beautiful to see in Spring.

There is a marked trail across the reserve, which is suitable for short or longer circular walks. There is also a marked tramper route, suitable for powered disabled vehicles, when ground conditions allow.

Facilities include:

– Visitor centre

– Toilets

– Shop

– Cafe/refreshments

– Picnic area

– Accessible toilet

– Baby changing facilities

– Wifi

– Disabled parking