TOP TEN: Hengistbury Head

Top 10 reasons to visit Hengistbury Head

All photographs are courtesy of @HengistburyHead on Instagram

1. Spectacular Views Standing at the top of Hengistbury Head, you’d be hard pressed to find a more spectacular sight, with views overlooking Christchurch and Mudeford Quay, Mudeford Spit, Bournemouth’s Coastline, the Purbecks and the Isle of Wight with its optical illusion white chalk polar bear perched on the cliff end.

2. The Visitors' Centre Whilst you’re out and about, why not drop into the Visitors' Centre where you can wander around the tranquil wildlife garden. Whatever the season, there’s always something amazing to see, whether it’s daffodils and snowdrops in spring or Michaelmas daisies in autumn. The interactive displays in the free exhibition centre, provide a fascinating insight into the history of Hengistbury Head.

3.​ Romantic Spots The many viewpoints around the area allow for the perfect front-row seat during sunrise and sunset. There’s no better way to enjoy one of Dorset’s breathtaking sunsets, than sitting on the beach or sand dunes, watching the sun go down, with sea views and your loved ones.

4. Hidden Gems Whilst many people are familiar with the walking paths around Hengistbury Head, there's also a few ‘hidden gems’ which are worth exploring. The scenic Stour Valley Way leads from Hengistbury Head, directly to the serene banks of the Stour River, making it the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic, overlooking Christchurch Quay and The Priory Church.

5. Wildlife Hengistbury Head is home to a wide range of beautiful wildlife and is the optimum location for bird watching. More than 300 species of bird live and visit Hengistbury Head every year, including cuckoos, skylarks and osprey. You can learn more about which species will be migrating here during the coming months, on the interactive displays in the Visitor’s Centre.

6. Mudeford Spit Home to 348 beach huts, Mudeford Spit is certainly a favourite spot amongst both visitors and locals, with a pathway leading directly from Hengistbury Head car park to the Spit; it’s the ideal distance for your afternoon walk or cycle.

7. Opportunities for Watersports Hengistbury Head provides a fantastic location for any water sport lovers. Whether you enjoy windsurfing, kayaking or sea swimming, there’s an abundance of space for you to get stuck into your favourite water-based activity.

8. Solent Meads Golf Course If your hobbies lay on-land, Solent Meads Golf Course is located next to Hengistbury Head allowing for a round of golf with beautiful panoramic views. The 18-hole par 3 course, is open all year around and is great for all ages and abilities.

9. The beach With Dorset’s coastline stretching over 142km, it’s no surprise that it’s a popular hotspot amongst tourists. However, visiting Hengistbury Head allows you to avoid the hustle and bustle of the popular tourist spots like Bournemouth Pier, whilst still enjoying the tranquillity of one of Dorset’s golden beaches. The perfect place for your socially distanced walk!

10. Hiker Cafe After a long day enjoying the many activities on offer, what better way to end it, than a bite to eat at the Hiker Cafe? Located at the bottom of Hengistbury Head, there are a range of food options available, including a delicious selection of coffee and homemade cakes. Yum!

We hope you enjoy your visit to Hengistbury Head! (Please note, the Hiker Cafe and Visitor Centre is currently closed due to lockdown restrictions, but keep an eye out for re-opening details)

Katie Oliver – moderator and curator of @HengistburyHead Instagram page.