Hengistbury Head

Hengistbury Head is a wide headland south of Christchurch Harbour, managed as a nature reserve, Site of Special Scientific Interest and scheduled ancient monument. Families come to walk the flat harbourside paths, climb Warren Hill for wide views, and explore the heathland, woodland and beach. The visitor centre, housed in a converted old barn, has interactive displays on the site's archaeology, geology and wildlife, and a live webcam on a nesting heron. A land train runs in season between the Broadway café and Mudeford Spit, which suits younger children and anyone who would rather not walk the full distance. There is a café near the car park, and the reserve hosts events, guided walks and workshops throughout the year. Dogs on leads are welcome. The reserve is open-access outdoors, so the visit can be as short or as long as the day allows.