Stour Meadows, Blandford

An important site for recreation along the River Stour in Blandford, with good links into the town centre.

A popular site close to Blandford town centre. The mixture of riverside vegetation, grassland, mature trees and a pond, create a refuge for wildlife. The specially created pond attracts numerous dragonflies, such as the Black-tailed Skimmer. There are several attractive walks across the site, and picnic tables are provided for lunchtime visitors.

Grid reference: ST 888 058

Size: 24.5 acres/9.9ha

Look out for: Black-tailed Skimmer, Kingfisher, Meadow Pipits, Goldfinch, Purple loosestrife and Corky-fruited Water-dropwort.

Habitat: Grassland and wetland

Owner: North Dorset District Council with 2.62ha leased from Hall & Woodhouse.

Managed by: Dorset Countryside

Bus: Tesco supermarket

Nearest train: Gillingham (18 miles)

Parking: Large car park adjacent to the site

Access: Disabled access

How to get there

Off the A354 Blandford Forum bypass, head towards the Tesco superstore, then turn off left towards the free car park beside the Brewery. The site is next to the car park.