As summer approaches, Bournemouth Water is encouraging families, walkers and local explorers to make the most of the season by visiting some of the most beautiful and accessible green and blue spaces across the region.
From peaceful waterside strolls at Longham Lakes to picnics in the New Forest National Park, there are plenty of family-friendly places where you can spot wildlife, enjoy a picnic and a breath of fresh air, and create lasting memories.
Here’s Bournemouth Water’s guide to its top ten must-visit locations this Summer:
1. Longham Lake
Located near the idyllic town of Ferndown in Dorset, this peaceful Bournemouth Water site is the perfect spot for a walk with the whole family, surrounded by lush greenery and rich in wildlife.
Managed by South West Lakes Trust, the surfaced paths make this an ideal spot for families with pushchairs to enjoy a 1.5 mile walk around the lakes.
Please note the car park is for authorised users only.
It’s also a popular spot for birdwatchers who can enjoy sightings of rare species and for coarse fishing with Longham Lakes known as one of Dorset’s top angling destinations (permits required).
Find out more information about Longham Lakes.
2. Bourne Stream
Winding through Bournemouth Gardens, this urban waterway offers shaded picnic spots and quiet areas for visitors to dip their toes in the water and paddle.
It’s a hidden gem that blends busy town life with nature, perfect for a gentle walk with little ones away from the hustle and bustle.
For more information visit the Bourne Stream Partnership website.
3. River Avon
Flowing from Wiltshire to Christchurch, the River Avon offers scenic picnic spots, opportunities to spot diverse wildlife and riverside trails for all the family.
This stunning river is thought to contain more species of fish than any other river in Britain and is an area of environmental significance that Bournemouth Water is working hard to protect.
Its slow, meandering waters make it ideal for a relaxing family day outdoors – on foot or by boat. The choice is yours. Further details on the River Avon.
4. Stour Valley Way
Stretching over 60 miles, this stunning route follows the River Stour from source to sea from Stourhead in Wiltshire to Hengitsbury Head.
With well-maintained paths and beautiful scenery, it’s great for anything from a short weekend stroll with the family to a hardy trek for avid walkers.
Read more information about Stour Valley Way.
5. Christchurch Harbour
Set midway between the Solent and Poole Harbour, Christchurch Harbour is a beautiful natural harbour, and a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Partly managed by South West Lakes Trust, Christchurch Harbour is home to a rich variety of wildlife including over 300 species of birds as well as otters and seals.
This scenic location is the perfect place to grab an ice cream, enjoy a scenic walk and enjoy some birdwatching.
If you like to fish, The Harbour, Lower Avon, Stour and Claypool are some of the best locations for Sea Trout fishing in England and are well worth a visit.
Learn more about Christchurch Harbour.
6. Highcliffe Beach
With golden sands, fossil hunting, and clear waters, this dog friendly beach is a family favourite.
Its cove like beaches, gentle slopes and panoramic views of the Isle of Wight make it a relaxing seaside destination which is perfect for all the family. Make sure you stop by The Cliffhanger Café for a tasty seaside treat!
More information about Highcliffe Beach.
7. The New Forest National Park
A summer classic, the New Forest National Park is full of delightful forest trails which are perfect for walking, cycling and the chance to spot the beloved wild ponies.
This beautiful national park offers endless opportunities for walking, cycling, and pony spotting. It’s home to over 260 animals representing 40 species both native and from other parts of the world.
In the summer, it’s the go to place for events like food festivals, country shows, live music and local food markets.
If you’re exploring the forest by foot, visit buggy-friendly trails like Wilverley Enclosure and Ashhurst which are complete with picnic areas and facilities - it’s a summer classic that never disappoints.
Find out more information about the New Forest National Park on their website.
8. Beaulieu
More than just a historic village, Beaulieu is surrounded by gentle riverside walks and woodlands.
With family-friendly attractions Beaulieu Motor Museum and Beaulieu Palace House just a stone’s throw away, it makes for a lovely day trip with something for everyone.
Further information on Beaulieu.
9. Wimborne Minster
Wimborne Minster is a charming market town where the River Stour provides a calm and beautiful setting for an afternoon stroll.
Steeped in history, Wimborne’s 12th Century Minster Church with its famous chained library, one of four surviving in the world, is well worth a visit as well as Wimborne’s Model Town & Gardens which is a 10th of the scale diorama of Wimborne town centre in the 1950’s.
Explore the historic town centre or enjoy riverside paths and nature reserves nearby.
Read more information about Wimborne Minster,
10. New Milton
Perfectly placed between the New Forest National Park and Barton on Sea, New Milton is a lively country town which is a great base for a family day out.
Visit the Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum, explore interactive exhibits at the Forest Arts Centre, or head to Barton-on-Sea for beach walks and fossil hunting.
And make sure you look out for the town’s most impressive residents - peregrine falcons.
Bournemouth Water supported New Milton Town Council to protect these birds and encourage them to breed by installing a nesting box and a web cam on the tower so they could be observed during their breeding season. They have since continued to breed and have now taken up permanent residence in the tower – they’re well worth a visit.
View further information about New Milton.
Bournemouth Water plays an important role with the support of partners, like South West Lakes Trust, in managing and protecting local water sources and landscapes.
Many of these destinations benefit from water stewardship and conservation efforts that ensure clean, safe, and sustainable environments for people and wildlife alike.
Saška Mc Grath, Strategic Environment Manager at Bournemouth Water said:
“These places represent the best of our natural heritage. local Environment.
“We’re proud to manage and support sites like Longham Lakes and Christchurch harbour. We hope families will take the opportunity to enjoy some of the beautiful places across Bournemouth and beyond, with respect and only leave footprints behind.”
Jon Morley, South West Lakes Trust’s Area Manager for Bournemouth, said:
“Both Longham Lakes and Christchurch Harbour are really special places for people and wildlife. We look forward to welcoming visitors to them both this summer.”
View more information on local walks, water education, and Bournemouth Water’s environmental projects.