Manston Copse

Wood, Forest in Dorset

England

Manston Copse

River Stour at Fiddleford Mill The weir pool below the mill race. — River Stour at Fiddleford Mill Credit: Des Blenkinsopp

Manston Copse is a picturesque wood located in the county of Dorset, England. Situated near the village of Manston, it covers an area of approximately 30 hectares and is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystem. The copse is predominantly composed of broadleaf trees, including oak, beech, and ash, which create a dense canopy, providing shade and shelter for a variety of flora and fauna.

The forest floor is covered with a carpet of bluebells in the spring, creating a stunning display of vibrant colors. Alongside the bluebells, visitors can also find an array of other wildflowers, such as primroses and wood anemones. The copse is home to several species of birds, including woodpeckers, tits, and warblers, which can be heard singing melodiously throughout the day.

Manston Copse is intersected by a network of footpaths, which allows visitors to explore its natural wonders. A circular trail has been created, guiding hikers through the wood and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The copse also features a picnic area, providing a tranquil spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the woodland.

Managed by the local authorities, Manston Copse is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), reflecting its ecological significance. The wood is not only a haven for wildlife but also serves as an important carbon sink, contributing to the overall health of the environment.

Overall, Manston Copse is a cherished natural treasure in Dorset, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and experience the tranquility of a truly enchanting woodland setting.

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Manston Copse Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.935515/-2.2832039 or Grid Reference ST8015. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

River Stour at Fiddleford Mill

The weir pool below the mill race.

Des Blenkinsopp

Weir at Fiddleford Mill

The main River Stour drops over the weir while the mill race continues off to the left.

Des Blenkinsopp

Sluice gear at Fiddleford Mill

A bit rusty looking but seemingly still in working order these sluices control the weir between the mill stream and the main river.

Des Blenkinsopp

Wildflowers on the steps, Fiddleford Mill

A disused stairway on one of the outbuildings.

Des Blenkinsopp

Fiddleford Manor

Part of a Manor House built for the Sheriff of Somerset & Dorset in about 1370. This part of the building is in the care of English Heritage and is open to the public. Another range of buildings behind is still lived in and isn't open.

Des Blenkinsopp

Stour Valley Way near Hammoon

The map and these signposts show the Stour Valley Way leaving the Trailway along the old rail route and diverting up to the hamlet of Hammoon about 1km to the north. Then it comes back again on the other side of the road and rejoins the Trailway about 250 metres further along. The reason for this isn't clear as the Trailway is open all along anyway.

Des Blenkinsopp

Gate onto the Trailway

Access from the lane to Hammoon onto the old railway track, now a footpath and cycleway.

Des Blenkinsopp

River Stour from the Trailway Bridge

Along the old railway route east of Sturminster, now a cycleway.

Des Blenkinsopp

Slightly Altered Weir

Exactly the same spot as ST8013 : Pool at Fiddleford Weir standing on the footbridge. This is 11 years later and some riffles have been added to the spillway, possibly to churn up the water a bit or make it easier for fish to get up.

Des Blenkinsopp