Studland Bay is protected from wind and storms by the impressive Old Harry Rocks, a spectacular chalk headland that has seen many shipwrecks in its time. The heathland and sand dunes behind the beach make up the Nature Reserve and are a haven for many rare birds, including the Dartford Warbler and a colony of wild ring-necked parakeets and other forms of wildlife, including all 7 native species of reptile.

There are several footpaths, bird hides at Little Sea, a National Trust trail and a woodland nature trail. Standing on a mound on the heath is the Agglestone, a 17ft high, 400 ton rock perched on a conical hill which the stone has protected from the weather but with no clues as to how it got there. Legend has it that the Devil threw the rock from the Isle of Wight with the intention of hitting Corfe Castle!

During the Second World War, Studland was used as a training ground for D-Day Landings. The 90 foot long Fort Henry, with concrete walls almost three feet thick and recessed observation silt, is one of Britain’s most important relics of World War II and offers fantastic views over the bay.

Getting there by car: From Bournemouth follow signs to Sandbanks and Ferry. Board the ferry for a short crossing and then go straight on after the ferry for 3 miles until you reach Studland village.

By Bus: Wilts & Dorset Buses service 150 from Bournemouth. Call our Visitor Information Bureau for more information on times. Or call Traveline on 0870 6082608.