Kingcombe Nature Reserve is a shining example of harmony—balancing the needs of wildlife, visitors, farming, and holiday homes within its picturesque grounds. Managed expertly by the Dorset Wildlife Trust, this reserve demonstrates a delicate equilibrium that is both inspiring and essential.
Our guided walk began under a blazing sun, greeted by a flypast of swifts that gracefully circled overhead as we embarked on the uphill journey along a historic drove road. Emerging from the shade into a vibrant meadow, we noticed much of the grass had been cut—two weeks earlier than usual due to a severe heatwave. This early mowing was necessary to preserve the nutritional value of winter cattle feed, though it meant making difficult choices between supporting wildlife like butterflies and insects or maintaining farming productivity. Yet, patches were carefully left uncut, alive with fluttering butterflies and buzzing insects, illustrating the reserve’s commitment to coexistence.
Known affectionately as “the land that time forgot,” Kingcombe’s fields have reportedly never been treated with fertilisers or pesticides. The Dorset Wildlife Trust acquired much of the estate following a national appeal, creating a perfect sanctuary adjacent to Powerstock Common. Since 2021, this 300-acre haven has been officially designated a National Nature Reserve.
READ MORE: Thrilling Truckfest Returns to Somerset for Two Days of Family Fun
READ MORE: Iconic Lost Nightclubs of Somerset That Will Live Forever in Folklore
Supporting its upkeep are charming holiday cottages, a thriving café at the Kingcombe Centre housed in beautifully restored farm buildings, and sustainable farming practices. Reaching Kingcombe is an adventure itself, with narrow, winding single-track roads weaving through the countryside—a journey that enhances the sense of timeless isolation. Drivers should proceed with care, as local wildlife like rabbits and birds may lazily cross the road.
Families visiting the reserve will find the visitor centre a treasure trove of information, showcasing why Kingcombe is one of the UK’s finest examples of lowland grassland. I joined a guided tour led by Dorset Wildlife Trust ranger Matt Harcourt, an experience I wholeheartedly recommend. Alternatively, visitors can explore self-guided trails marked with orange or purple signs.
The guided group enriched my visit with expert knowledge. For example, a fellow participant from the east of England shared fascinating insights into distinguishing male and female Meadow Brown butterflies. We also discovered unique flora, including the nationally rare Corky Fruited Water Dropwort thriving here, as well as the intriguingly named Devil’s Scabious. Local lore behind some plant names will add charm to your walk.
Expect to spot bird’s-foot trefoil (or eggs and bacon), cowslips, bee orchids, and harebells amid the meadows. However, the reserve is also vigilant against invasive species like Himalayan Balsam, which our guide quickly identified and removed near a stream crossing to prevent it from overwhelming native plants.
The estate’s waterways may reveal glimpses of the UK’s vivid kingfishers, dippers, damselflies, and dragonflies. Recent pond restoration projects support a variety of wildlife, including the delightful great crested newt, with Dorset hosting some of the country’s largest populations.
Continuing the theme of balance, the Trust has been restoring the River Hooke by placing fallen timber strategically to slow its flow, fostering new habitats and retaining water in the landscape longer.
Kingcombe also shelters dormice and hints at the presence of elusive adders in areas aptly named Adder’s Hole and Adder’s Plot. These shy snakes are more likely to hide than be seen if you encounter them.
Kingcombe Nature Reserve is located at:
Lower Kingcombe,
Toller Porcorum,
Dorchester,
DT2 0EQ
What3Words location: gentle.stews.condense