Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve
About Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve
Valley Of Stones is a Limestone grassland and sarsen stones reserve in Dorset, managed by Natural England. The reserve covers approximately 37 hectares and is designated as a National Nature Reserve. The limestone grassland supports abundant wildflowers including pyramidal orchids, wild thyme and rockrose. The reserve is a stronghold for butterflies including brown argus, chalkhill blue and marbled white. Skylarks nest in the grassland. Adders and common lizards bask on the stones.
Wildlife & Habitat at Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve
The limestone grassland supports abundant wildflowers including pyramidal orchids, wild thyme and rockrose. The reserve is a stronghold for butterflies including brown argus, chalkhill blue and marbled white. Skylarks nest in the grassland. Adders and common lizards bask on the stones.
Location & Nearest Towns
Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve is located in Dorset, England. The nearest town is Dorchester. Nearby places include Dorchester, Abbotsbury, Weymouth.
Interesting Facts
- The sarsen stones scattered across the valley were formed over 50 million years ago and are the same type of stone used to build the inner circle at Stonehenge.
- Local folklore held that the stones were thrown across the valley by giants or the Devil.
- The reserve supports brown argus butterflies, which are restricted to a handful of limestone sites in Dorset.
Visitor Tips for Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve
Spring to Autumn offers the best conditions for wildlife viewing.
Binoculars, walking boots or wellies, waterproofs, and a field guide. Insect repellent in summer.
Layby parking on the road between Kingston and Abbotsbury. Information panel. No visitor centre, toilets or cafe on site. Informal paths through the reserve. Nearest facilities in Dorchester or Weymouth.
Layby parking on the road between Kingston and Abbotsbury. Information panel. No visitor centre, toilets or cafe on site. Informal paths through the reserve. Nearest facilities in Dorchester or Weymouth.
Exploring Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve
Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve is a easy-access reserve in Dorset. The habitat is primarily Limestone grassland and sarsen stones, and the reserve is managed by Natural England. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or a first-time visitor, the reserve offers a peaceful escape into some of the UK's finest protected landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve suitable for families?
Yes, the valley has open access and paths suitable for families. Rough, uneven ground with loose stones. No formal paths. Gentle slopes. Access via a stile from the roadside layby. Sturdy footwear recommended.
What is the best time to visit Valley Of Stones NNR?
Spring to autumn offers the best wildflower displays. May to August for orchids, wildflowers and butterflies. Spring for skylarks. Late summer for chalkhill blue butterflies. Autumn for fungi. Winter is bleak but the stones are atmospheric.
Are dogs allowed at Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve?
Dogs are permitted under close control. Keep on a lead to protect ground-nesting birds and butterflies.
Why Visit Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve?
Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve is a designated National Nature Reserve in Dorset, England — one of the UK's finest protected wildlife sites. Browse our full directory of UK nature reserves to discover more sites to visit.
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