There is a variety of natural habitats such as meadow, wetland and woodland as well as gravel paths and places to sit. The site was formerly declared as a local nature reserve in 2005.
It is part of the former grounds of a large 18th Century estate of which landscaping, wooded areas, trees, ornamental species and remnants of the original fish pond survive.
The main lake was constructed with the primary purpose of being a flood defence measure, although it now contains a variety of coarse fish. Fishing on the lake is restricted to Christchurch Angling Club members.
Highcliffe Bowling Club has been based at Nea Meadows since 1975.


