Stour Valley Nature Reserve is a gorgeous location situated on the north-west edge of Bournemouth. The reserve consists of meadows, hedgrows, and woodland in a serene riverside setting.

There are grazing animals and other wildlife such as otters to keep a look out for as well as the magnificent Kingfisher which is a friendly face here. There is also a beautiful variety of flora including an arboretum filled with fascinating tree species.

MCW73

March 26, 2024

Hiking

Be careful if you plan to go in winter or the rainy season. The beginning section of the trail sucks you in with all its beauty....then as you get further down the river, wallop it becomes something of a boggy swamp. I tried so hard to muster through it, but the rain had been bad and the mud was up to my ankles. I had to detour and come off the trail. I bet it's a lot different and more enjoyable during the summer.

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Best routes near Stour Valley Nature Reserve

4.6

(19)

hikers

1. Stour Valley Way Loop

10.8km

02:44

20m

Hike the moderate 6.7-mile Stour Valley Way Loop, gaining 81 feet in 2h 44m, exploring riverside paths and Throop Mill.

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Moderate

4.9

(14)

hikers

2. The River Stour & Dudsbury Camp loop from Throop — Stour Valley Nature Reserve

13.8km

03:31

50m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

4.5

(2)

hikers

3. Stour Valley Way

4.27km

01:05

10m

Hike the easy 2.7-mile Stour Valley Way loop through the Stour Valley Local Nature Reserve, featuring river views and a wildflower meadow.

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Easy

Details

Informations

Elevation 10 m

Weather

Today

Thursday 19 March

16°C

3°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

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Take Me There

Location: West Parley, East Dorset, Dorset, South West England, England, United Kingdom

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Stour Valley Nature Reserve

1. Stour Valley Way Loop

2. The River Stour & Dudsbury Camp loop from Throop — Stour Valley Nature Reserve

3. Stour Valley Way

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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