Park open: 28th February 2025  to 2nd January 2026     Telephone lines and online booking: Open all year round

Hengistbury Head beach
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Hengistbury Head

Beaches

Hengistbury Head is situated at the eastern end of Bournemouth Beach and a must visit during your stay at our Dorset caravan and camping park. The rugged beach is one of the most important Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in the country and home to over 500 plant species and 300 types of bird.

The headland remains largely unspoiled by commercialism with plenty of authentic charm. It’s a fantastic place to visit in the height of the summer or for a bracing walk on a cold and blustery day.

Spectacular views

There are a number of walks to enjoy during a trip to Hengistbury Head – the majority with flat and accessible terrain. On a clear day visitors can enjoy views across Christchurch Harbour and towards the Needles in the Isle of Wight.

One of the most popular is 4 mile circular route, which encompasses a walk to the headland and along the sandy beach.

Visitors Centre

Visitors interested in geology and ecology should pay a visit to Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre, where there are a number of  interactive displays offering an insight the past. There is evidence of humans inhabiting the site for more than 12,000 years and the exhibits provide further information on how they used the land.

Nest cameras and live webcams showcase wildlife and habitats throughout the site and water tanks mimic the underwater environment. There’s also a gift shop selling a range of responsibly sourced, nature-themed games, homeware and produce.

Dog friendly

Hengistbury Head is dog friendly year round, making it the perfect destination for visitors with four-legged friends. There is an off-lead area for dogs to run and play to their hearts content as well as

Getting to Hengistbury Head

It takes approximately 45 minutes to drive to Hengistbury Head from South Lytchett Manor Caravan and Camping Park. There is a large pay and display car park just a short walk from the beach which opens from 5am-10pm every day (payment is by card, phone or app only – you cannot pay by cash). Public toilet facilities can be found just a short walk away at the Hiker Cafe.

There is a land train that runs from the car park to the beach huts at Mudeford Quay. The service runs during the summer season and costs a couple of pounds each way.

Attraction information

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