バートンの天然記念物・トップ14

A memorial to a Red Arrows pilot who died following a display at the Bournemouth Air Festival. The 33-year-old pilot died when his Hawk T1 jet crashed after completing a display at the annual festival in 2011.

A sculpture piece which highlights the layers of sands, gravels and clays that make up Hengistbury Head were formed around 65 million years ago beneath a warm tropical sea. This was the beginning of a very unstable period. Movements in the earth’s crust created the Alps and in southern England the land surface was gently folded. Temperatures and sea levels fluctuated widely. Tropical seas gave way to warm lagoons and then extreme cold as a series of ice ages gripped the land. This dramatic history is visible in the cliffs along Hengistbury Head.

A unique and beautiful sand spit which adjoins the ancient headland of Hengistbury Head and forms a natural barrier between Christchurch Harbour and the open sea. The area is designated a Site of Nature Conservation Interest. Access by foot, bike or land train from Hengistbury Head car park. Access by passenger ferry from Mudeford Quay and Christchurch Quay. There are 5 public toilet blocks, one with hot showers. Outside cold showers are also provided. Horses are not permitted on the seashore between the Saturday preceding Easter Monday and the 30th September (both dates inclusive) in any year between 10am and 9pm. Due to being so close to Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve, BBQs are not allowed at Mudeford Sandbank Beach. Open fires, fire pits and fire bowls are not permitted at any time on the beach, promenade, cliffs, cliff tops or woodland areas. The beach is surrounded by unique cliff habitats which are Sites of Special Scientific Interest and provide a home to many of the UK’s rare species of reptiles, birds and insects. Their dry nature means they are vulnerable and sparks from open fires can cause huge damage.

Art installation showing layers of compacted earth

A great alternative place for a paddle and picnic to nearby Wootton Bridge that gets very busy in good weather. A walk is required to reach location but in itself filters out all but the most determined to reach this little slice of heaven in the forest! Great in any season, although seasonal tints make an autumn visit pretty stunning.

Crossing the stream is not possible without wet feet! There is no transition so you have to go through the water to the other side. After that it is still quite wet. But otherwise beautiful route!

Grassy banks either side of the Avon Water river make a perfect spot for a picnic and paddle. You may encounter some of New Forest's local residents here, including wild ponies, deer, and an array of beautiful bird species.

A 100% recommendation, new views every minute, varied paths - a very English paradise!