iTravelUK > Attractions > Natural Attractions > England > Southwest > Dorset
Undercliff National Nature Reserve
The Lyme Regis Undercliff is a delight for walkers able to cope with a bit of rough terrain and strenuous efforts are rewarded by the sight of rare flora and fauna. The Undercliff National Nature Reserve lies to the west of Lyme Regis. The reserve is an active landslip and access is restricted to the Southwest Coast Path which runs for 7 miles between Axmouth and the Undercliff. Part of the Devon and East Dorset World Heritage Site, geologists will note exposures in the rocks of the Triassic-Jurassic transition. The last great landslide occurred here on Christmas Day in 1839 resulting in a seaward slip of some 16 acres. It created a chasm 120m wide, 45m deep and about three-quarters of a mile long. For more information head to the Tourist Information Office at Lyme Regis or the Charmouth Heritage Coast Information Centre. Alternatively, you may want to pick up a copy of "The Explorer's Guide to the Jurassic Coast" which you can buy for a few pounds from East Devon and Tourist Information Centres and Visitors Centres.
The Portland Bird Observatory & Field Centre
An integral part of the World Heritage Jurassic Coast, Portland is graced with a unique geology. All of its coast and many parts of the isle are designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Portland is a fortuitous location for migrating birds and the isle is a haven for both local and foreign species.
The southernmost point, Portland Bill is a veritable bird-watchers paradise. A breeding ground for some 300 species birds, careful observation has recorded hundreds of various flora and also over 40 different species of mammals here from sharks and dolphins to bats and foxes.
Ever since the 1950's, bird-ringing has been conducted here and to date over 150,000 birds from a range of 185 have taken part is the Bird Observatory's research programme. The results aid understanding of population change, migration patterns and life-span.
The Portland Bird Observatory also offers self-catering accommodation in the higher Lighthouse with hostel dorms or the self-contained lighthouse keeper's cottage. For more details, phone the Portland Bird Observatory on 01305 820553.
Chesil Beach Centre
The Chesil Beach Centre is designed to cater for those interested in learning more about the geology of the area. Interactive displays guide you to insight and you'll also be able to examine the underwater world more closely by taking a trip aboard Fleet Observer , a glass-bottomed boat.
Abbotsbury Swannery
Have you ever wondered what the "Ugly Duckling" really looked like? At Abbotsbury Swannery, you'll get the chance to see hundreds of them! Each year, hundreds of these cute, wee things hatch on site and you'll get the rare opportunity to get up close.
Abbotsbury Swannery is a magical place " a definite attraction which your kids will never forget. The Abbotsbury Swannery is a unique spot which has been home to a colony of swans for over 600 years. Although some believe that the Abbotsbury monks established a swannery here in the 1400s, it would seem that the swans congregate here due to the natural habitat provided by the shelter of Chesil Bank.
The Abbotsbury Colonial Nesting Herd is a colony of mute swans (so-called because their calls are soft rather than shrill). Unlike other swans throughout the UK which remain the property of Her Majesty, Abbotsbury Swans are free-wheeling birds able to roam wherever they please. Despite their liberty, a local swan herd keeps an eye out for protective nesting swans although even the most aggressive are quite accustomed to human company.
Highlights of this attraction are feeding times (twice daily) and if possible watching cygnets hatch. You'll also be able to see an audio-visual film and follow the "Ugly Duckling Trail". Abbotsbury Swannery is open from mid-March to the end of October.
Radipole Lake Swannery
A nature reserve in the centre of Weymouth, the Radipole Lake Swannery is home to Bearded Tits and Cetti's Warblers all year. In the summer months, sedge, reed and grasshopper warblers can be observed. In the winter season, pochard and tufted ducks are amongst the many migrating birds which are to be found here.
Bennett's Water Gardens
Lying about two miles out of Weymouth, Bennett's Water Gardens is a designated Site of Nature Conservation Interest. Spanning some eight acres, Bennett's Water Garden's were born in 1959 when Norman Bennett decided to grow Water Lilies in the abandoned clay pits of Chickerell Brickworks. A family endeavour, the gardens have been developed by Johnathon Bennett and now contain walks furnished with seating at scenic spots. On your visit, you'll be awed by the 150 varieties of water lilies to be found here including some that originated from the same nursery that supplied Monet. Attractions at Bennett's Water Garden's include a Tropical House, an Aquatic Centre, Family Nature Trail and a Plant Centre. You'll also be able to visit the on-site museum which covers the history of Chickerell village and the Chickerell Brickworks.