About the reserve

A charming pocket of old orchard in a peaceful spot on the edge of Broad Oak hamlet and surrounded by thick hedgerows. Old varieties of English apple and plum trees are to be found in this community orchard - the perfect place to sit a while in the dappled shade of an apple tree and watch the insects buzz by. Away from the paths, the grass is left to grow long to allow plenty of flowers and seeds for the birds and insects that visit, with cutting once or twice a year to keep it from getting too dense. There is an information hut, and benches making it the perfect spot for a picnic.

Useful Information

From Sturminster Newton, turn south off the A357; just east of the River Stour bridge/traffic lights at The Bull pub onto a minor road. Follow through the hamlet of Broad Oak, take the second left along New Road; the orchard is on the left just before a sharp bend.