Sopley Common and Ramsdown Hill
This walk climbs to the viewpoint at Ramsdown Hill before visiting Sopley Common Nature Reserve.
The two sites are located next to each other in the Hurn Forest near Christchurch.
There is a public car park just north of the hill where you can start the walk.
Ramsdown Hill rises to approximately 50 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views over Bournemouth, the Isle of Wight, and as far as Ringwood to the north. A purpose-built viewing platform enhances the experience, making it a favored spot for photography and birdwatching. The hill is part of Ramsdown Plantation, characterized by a mix of coniferous and broadleaf woodland, with ongoing efforts to control invasive rhododendron to preserve native biodiversity.
Adjacent to Ramsdown Hill lies Sopley Common Nature Reserve, encompassing both wet and dry heathland habitats. The dry heath is adorned with common and bell heathers, while the wetter areas feature bog pools surrounded by cotton-grass and sundew plants. This diverse environment supports a variety of wildlife, including sand lizards, smooth snakes, and heathland beetles. Bird enthusiasts may encounter Dartford warblers and stonechats among the gorse, and dragonflies are abundant around the bog pools. The presence of rare species such as the adder underscores the ecological significance of the reserve.
As you traverse from Ramsdown Hill to Sopley Common, the transition from woodland to heathland offers a rich tapestry of landscapes and ecosystems, providing a rewarding experience for nature lovers and hikers alike.
The area is also popular with mountain bikers - see the video below for more details.
Postcode
BH23 6AR - Please note: Postcode may be approximate for some rural locationsSopley Common and Ramsdown Hill Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Sopley Common and Ramsdown Hill Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Sopley Common and Ramsdown Hill OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Sopley Common and Ramsdown Hill Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Steps to the Ramsdown viewpoint
Sopley Common. The view across the southeastern part of Town Common - the bridge that carries the Avon Causeway road across the A338 Bournemouth spur road can be seen in the distance.