When people think of Bournemouth, you think of the various beauty spots including the beaches, gardens and grand architecture. But there are so many more beautiful and historic sites to sample around Bournemouth and these can be found through the National Trust.
National Trust-owned areas are protected and conserved heritage sites which are open to the public to visit in exchange for a donation to their charity. They look after over 500 historic castles, manor houses, monuments and nature reserves as well as 775 miles of coastline and thousands of acres of land. The National Trust rely on their members and donations to help care for these areas.
So where are the best National Trust sites to visit, where you will not only get a great day out but will also be contributing to the upkeep of these beautiful areas.
Corfe Castle
Enjoy a short wander around the remains of Corfe Castle and take in the historic scenery and stunning views over Poole Harbour. Occasionally you will get the chance to see battlefield reenactments and learn more about what Corfe Castle would have looked like in it’s prime.
View Corfe Castle from afar at one of Corfe Village’s many tea rooms and beer gardens. Indulge in delicious local cuisine or a coffee and a slice of homemade cake in one of these many charming establishments.
There are plenty of other memorials, churches and sites of interest dotted around the village for you to discover on this relaxing day out.
Brownsea Island
Are you a fan of the wildlife? Hop on a boat cruise from Poole Harbour over to Brownsea Island. Take a short stroll on the beach or grab a picnic and enjoy the stunning views across Poole Harbour and the Purbeck Hills.
If you are keen on wildlife, make sure you bring your camera! Brownsea Island is home to a large variety of wildlife including the rare red Squirrel. Discover them in their natural habitat in the woodland of Brownsea Island.
Either spend the day with a picnic in the woods or just pop over for half a day and cruise back using the regular boat rides from Poole Harbour.
Studland Bay
Another perfect picnic spot and chance to take in the amazing views. This natural area of sandy beaches and heathland is perfect for a late morning stroll and lunchtime picnic. Enjoy four miles of sheltered beaches including Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and Shell Bay; the perfect place to relax among the sandy dunes.
If you are feeling like you need more than a picnic on the beach to fill you up, book yourself in for lunch at The Pig on the Beach close to Studland. This enticing restaurant was once owned by the aristocratic Bankes family who had this manor house as their seaside residence.
In the summertime, be sure to admire the wildlife at Studland Bay including a variety of sea birds, dragonflies and even water voles – if you can spot them!
Find out more about the local National Trust sites available for visiting on the National Trust website.