Wareham Wanders: Sunnyside - setting the scene

 Description:

Sunnyside Farm at Ridge was incorporated into the Stoborough Heath National Nature Reserve some twenty years ago. Over the time since, the management of the site has been directed to restoring the land from improved agricultural pasture back to acid grassland and heath. It is continually grazed by a mixed group of horses which stops scrub gaining a hold, stops the grass from becoming too vigorous and ensures a natural, gentle return to its previous state. There are certainly signs in places this is working well but the main meadows will need a bit longer yet to start to see more wild flowers return.

The walk here follows a roughly triangular route of about 1.75 miles. Each side of the triangle is very different to the others. The first side follows the fringes of two grazing meadows with established hedgerow to one side and open fields to the other. Entering the second side of the triangle starts with a stretch along a tree lined path before venturing out onto heath and acid grassland which is wet in places. The final third side is back along the redundant rail track with hedge and trees on both sides.

It is generally an undemanding walk although anyone less mobile these days may find parts of the second leg a little difficult in places.

The Route:

From the Wareham south roundabout turn left towards Stoborough. Just past the mobile home park on the right turn right into New Lane (signposted to Arne). At the crossroads in just over a half a mile turn right and a car park for Stoborough Heath National Nature Reserve can be found a sort way along the road on the right, this is just at the point the houses and bungalows on the left hand side of the road stop.

From the car park go through the gate into the field and continue walking around the edge of the field until you eventually come to a gate

Go through the gate, turn left and walk along the tree lined track

(Note: This can be used an alternative starting point by leaving a car in New Lane)

After a couple of hundred yards the path divides. The main path goes to the right but our route veers to the left through a gate. Once through the gate keep walking across the heath ensuring you follow the same direction and the path leads you to higher ground covered in gorse.

The path here look as if it has ended but carry on into the gorse and you should find you way through safely. When you emerge the other side look for a large pile of white stones in the open field and head towards it.

Pass the stones and continue in the same direction until you come to the tramway and turn left. This will take you back to the car park.

Natural Interest:

As you cross the heath look for tufts of 'reindeer' lichen - Cladonia portentosa

With no leaves on the trees 'witches brooms' are clearly visible on some of the birch trees. These are galls caused by a fungal infection.

 

The damp woodland on the right of the tramway has several species of moss including the attractive Flat Neckera Moss

Conclusion:

This is a walk that definitely improves as the seasons progress. In winter the first leg in particular has little interest but do the walk regularly and watch the whole route gradually come alive with flowers and insects.

Notes:

You can see my full species list for this walk here: Species List