Welcome to the Dorset AONB
New publications for you to stay in and read on a cold winter's day!
The Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is one of a family of protected landscapes in the UK, working to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of almost half of Dorset's countryside. Have a look at our Annual Review to see what we have achieved over the last year.
Our new Traffic in Villages toolkit has just been launched in London at the Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation conference and endorsed by organisations like the CPRE. We hope it will help rural communites look at their traffic issues with fresh eyes - not just in Dorset but in other special landscapes too.
Latest News
Free i-phone app to explore the South Dorset Ridgeway
New i-phone app will help you get out & about in the South Dorset Ridgeway.
Take a fresh look at traffic in villages
A new Toolkit for communities by the Dorset AONB Team to help them look at traffic issues with fresh eyes, has been launched in London by the Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation.
Jurassic Coast is 10!
The stunning Jurassic Coast is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its designation as an internationally important World Heritage Site.
Shipwrecks and Excavations
The Dorset County Museum have set up some interesting events to while away the winter, including talks on Shipwrecks in Dorset and about the recent excavations on Golden Cap.
New events programme
Dorset Countryside have launched their new programme of countryside events for January and February . Events in the Dorset AONB include hands-on beach cleans, talks and guided walks.
Latest Events
- Sun Jan 29 @ 10:30
Intro to Dolphin Watching at Durlston Castle
Find out how we record dolphins and marine wildlfe and test your recording skills at the Dolphin Hide Watch. £3/2. Organsied by Dorset Countryside, see programme for more detail .
- Thu Feb 02 @ 10:0012:00
Wellies & Waders
Poole Harbour is a magnet for winter birds. Bring warm clothes and your binoculars and just turn up for a chance of seeing the UK's largest winter avocet flock just yards in front of you! Find out about the masses of winter wildfowl, waders and other wildlife that can be found in the harbour during the colder months. Spoonbills to grebes - divers to winter ducks! This event runs every Wednesday throughout the winter by the RSPB
10am-12noon, FREE event, donations welcome
- Sat Feb 04 @ 10:0012:00
Introduce Arne to a Friend
Share your love of this reserve with friends and family - bring them to Arne and have a free guided walk to introduce them to the amazing diversity of wildlife found here. Who knows, you might even learn something new yourself.
- Sat Feb 04 @ 13:0015:00
Introduce Arne to a Friend
Share your love of this reserve with friends and family - bring them to Arne and have a free guided walk to introduce them to the amazing diversity of wildlife found here. Who knows, you might even learn something new yourself.
- Sun Feb 05 @ 10:0016:00
Heathland Bash at Arne
Get some fresh air and healthy exercise! At the same time as helping us manage our rare, internationally important heathland, by removing invasive species such as pines. Training, tools, cake and hot drinks provided! Visit RSPB website for more information and directions.
- Sat Feb 11 @ 10:0016:00
Castle Quests
From Rotten Rascals to Fabulous Feasts, look out for the shields to find out the facts. Go on a quest around the castle and then claim your special prize. Fun for all the family! A great opportunity to visit the castle as entrance only £1pp
- Sat Feb 18 @ 10:0012:00
Nutty about next boxes
Just turn up and show your love for birds by making your very own bird box to take home. Who know what might use it this spring? £4 per box