Turbary Common Local Nature Reserve is a 36-hectare area of lowland heathland in north Bournemouth, representing the largest surviving fragment of heath in the area. It features a mix of wet and dry heath, scrub, and wooded valley habitats just off Turbary Park Avenue. The site is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and forms part of the Dorset Heathlands Special Area of Conservation, Special Protection Area, and Ramsar site.
This page covers the nature and wildlife of Turbary Common, its recent restoration work, practical information for visitors, and how it fits into the wider network of green spaces in Bournemouth.
What is Turbary Common and why is it important?
Turbary Common is a remnant of the extensive heathland that once covered much of southeast Dorset. At around 36 hectares (approximately 89 acres), it is the largest heathland area remaining in north Bournemouth. The reserve includes a combination of habitats such as dry heath dominated by heather, wet heath areas, scrubland, and a wooded valley mire.
The heathland habitat is rare and valuable for biodiversity, supporting species that are specially adapted to this environment. Because of its ecological significance, Turbary Common is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It also forms part of the Dorset Heathlands Special Area of Conservation (SAC), Special Protection Area (SPA), and Ramsar wetland site, reflecting its importance at national and international levels.
The site is managed to maintain the delicate balance of habitats, ensuring that open heathland is preserved alongside scrub and woodland areas. This balance supports a wide range of species, many of which are rare or declining elsewhere in the UK.
Wildlife found at Turbary Common
Turbary Common supports a rich variety of specialist wildlife, particularly species associated with lowland heath habitats. Among the notable birds is the Dartford warbler, a small, dark warbler closely linked to heathland environments. These birds breed here regularly, benefiting from the dense gorse and heather cover.
The reserve is also home to all six native British reptile species. This includes the sand lizard, which is rare and protected. Other reptiles such as common lizards, slow worms, adders, grass snakes, and smooth snakes are also present. Their presence indicates the quality of the heathland habitat.
Invertebrate life is diverse, with species such as the long-winged conehead cricket found in the scrub areas. The wet valley mire at the eastern edge of the common supports carnivorous plants like sundew and bog asphodel, which thrive in the nutrient-poor, acidic conditions. This mire also attracts scarce dragonfly species during the summer months.
Conservation grazing by livestock is used to manage the vegetation. Grazing helps control the spread of gorse and scrub, preventing these from overtaking the open heather areas that are vital for many species.
The valley mire restoration project
The valley mire at Turbary Common had suffered damage over the years due to surface water and landfill drainage pipes that discharged directly into the wetland. This altered the water flow and quality, allowing common reed to encroach and displace specialist bog plants.
A restoration project, funded by Wessex Water and completed in 2025, addressed these issues. The project rerouted drainage pipes away from the mire to a downstream wooded area, allowing water to flow and filter naturally through a newly created 170-metre channel. This restored the hydrology of the mire and improved conditions for bog specialist plants.
The reedbed that had encroached on the mire was cleared to encourage the return of species such as sundew and bog asphodel. Additionally, a new footpath was installed to connect the mire area with Turbary Park Avenue, improving visitor access while protecting sensitive habitats.
This restoration work helps secure the long-term ecological health of the valley mire and enhances the overall biodiversity of Turbary Common.
Visiting Turbary Common Local Nature Reserve
Turbary Common is open to the public year-round with no admission charge. There are no formal gates, and access is available from surrounding streets, including Turbary Park Avenue. Visitors can explore a network of paths that are a mixture of sand and hard surfaces.
Some paths are wheelchair accessible, although a few gates on these routes require a RADAR key for access. After rain, low-lying sections of the reserve can become muddy, so appropriate footwear is advisable. Dogs are welcome but should be kept under close control due to the presence of ground-nesting birds, reptiles, and occasional grazing livestock.
The reserve offers a quiet, natural environment within the urban area, with opportunities for wildlife watching and peaceful walks. Benches are placed at intervals, providing spots to rest and enjoy the surroundings.
For those interested in a longer walk or exploring more heathland, Turbary Common is close to Redhill Common, another fragment of the old Turbary heathland. The two reserves together offer a broader experience of heathland habitats in Bournemouth.
How Turbary Common fits into Bournemouth’s green spaces
Turbary Common is part of a network of green spaces and nature reserves in and around Bournemouth that preserve heathland, woodland, and parkland habitats. This network supports local biodiversity and provides recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
Nearby reserves include Redhill Common, which covers 7 hectares and offers heathland, grassland, and scrub habitats. Boscombe Overcliff Gardens, located on the clifftop above Boscombe seafront, provides wooded gardens and views over Poole Bay. Woodland Walk in Boscombe offers a peaceful nature reserve with accessible paths and wildlife sculptures.
Visitors interested in exploring more of Bournemouth’s natural areas can find detailed information in the Things to Do section of this site, which includes guides to parks, gardens, and nature reserves.
Getting to Turbary Common Local Nature Reserve
Turbary Common is located in north Bournemouth, just off Turbary Park Avenue. The reserve is accessible by car, bus, bicycle, and on foot.
- By car: There is limited on-street parking in the residential roads surrounding the reserve. Visitors should check local parking restrictions.
- By bus: Several local bus routes serve the area around Turbary Park Avenue, connecting to Bournemouth town centre and other neighbourhoods.
- On foot or by bicycle: The reserve is within walking distance of several residential areas in north Bournemouth. Cycle routes connect the common with nearby parks and the town centre.
For those travelling by train, Bournemouth station is approximately 3 miles south of Turbary Common. From the station, local buses or taxis provide onward travel.
Best times to visit Turbary Common
The reserve is open all year, but the experience varies with the seasons:
- Spring: Wildflowers begin to bloom, and bird activity increases as many species breed.
- Summer: The heathland is at its most colourful with flowering heather and active dragonflies around the mire.
- Autumn: Heather fades to muted tones, and migrating birds may be seen.
- Winter: The reserve is quieter, offering peaceful walks and a chance to spot wintering birds.
Early mornings and late afternoons are good times for wildlife observation, particularly for birdwatching. Visitors should be mindful that ground-nesting birds breed in spring and summer, so dogs must be kept under close control.
Who is Turbary Common suitable for?
Turbary Common appeals to a range of visitors:
- Nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers will appreciate the specialist heathland species.
- Walkers seeking a quiet, natural environment within the town.
- Families looking for outdoor space with easy access from residential areas.
- People interested in conservation and habitat restoration.
- Dog owners who can manage their pets responsibly in a sensitive environment.
While some paths are wheelchair accessible, the terrain can be uneven and muddy in places, so visitors with mobility needs should plan accordingly.
For those looking for other outdoor activities or attractions nearby, the Things to Do section offers a comprehensive guide to Bournemouth’s gardens, parks, and coastal walks.
