Crichton's Heath

Downs, Moorland in Dorset

England

Crichton's Heath

Moorings by Rockley Point Credit: Steve Daniels

Crichton's Heath is a picturesque area located in the county of Dorset, England. Situated on the southern slopes of the Cranborne Chase, it is known for its stunning natural landscapes, encompassing both downs and moorland.

The downs of Crichton's Heath are characterized by their rolling hills and expansive grasslands. These open spaces provide breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, with patches of vibrant wildflowers and occasional ancient trees dotting the landscape. The downs are also home to a variety of wildlife, including rabbits, foxes, and a diverse range of bird species, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

In addition to the downs, Crichton's Heath boasts extensive moorland areas, characterized by their heathland vegetation and wide stretches of open space. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the moorland, with its purple heather and gorse bushes creating a stunning contrast against the greenery of the surrounding hills.

Crichton's Heath offers numerous walking trails and paths, allowing visitors to explore the area at their leisure. These paths wind through the downs and moorland, taking walkers past ancient burial mounds, archaeological sites, and historical landmarks, showcasing the rich heritage of the area.

Overall, Crichton's Heath is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility in the heart of the English countryside. Its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Dorset.

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Crichton's Heath Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.701679/-2.0378686 or Grid Reference SY9789. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Moorings by Rockley Point

Steve Daniels

Beach by Rockley Point

Steve Daniels

Beach below Ham Common, Poole Harbour

Phil Champion

Foreshore near Ham Common and Hamworthy Beach, Poole Harbour

Phil Champion

Hamworthy Beach and Lake Pier, Poole Harbour

Phil Champion

Lake Pier, Poole Harbour

Phil Champion

Beach below Ham Common, Poole Harbour, Dorset

Adjoining Rock Lea River / Wareham Channel.

Phil Champion

View across Wareham Channel, Poole Harbour, towards Arne

Phil Champion

Lake Pier, Wareham Channel, Poole Harbour

Phil Champion

Foreshore east of Lake Pier, Poole Harbour

Looking towards RM Poole and beyond to the rooftops of houses and apartments at Moriconium Quay.

Phil Champion

Harbour's Edge Watersports and Cafe - Rockley Point, Poole Harbour

Phil Champion

Trainers and 7-Up - Lake Pier, Wareham Channel

Not sure what these are doing here or what happened to the owner.

Phil Champion

RAF Hamworthy - WW2 Pillbox (1)

- Pillbox (Type FW3/26): EDoB ID: e48119 A type 26 pillbox overlooking the waterway with a large embrasure in the front that was probably for a mounted heavy machine gun (HMG). This RAF Coastal Command base had in their fleet of flying boats Consolidated PBY Catalinas, and Short Sunderlands. The base was operational at Poole Harbour from 1939 - 1948, and was used also by the Royal Navy, the RAAF, and by BOAC (British Overseas Airways Corporation). Little remains today, and the land based area has become the scene of both commercial and military activity. SY9890 : RAF Hamworthy - WW2 Pillbox (2)

Mike Searle

RAF Hamworthy - WW2 Pillbox (2)

- Pillbox (Type FW3/26): EDoB ID: e48119 Side view with its single embrasure, with an identical arrangement on the opposite side. SY9890 : RAF Hamworthy - former WW2 control tower

Mike Searle

RAF Hamworthy - former WW2 control tower

The former RAF Hamworthy control tower has been converted postwar into a residential property that has recently been sold, having been on the market for £700.000. Viewed from the Royal Marines Amphibious Training Unit. SY9890 : RAF Hamworthy - WW2 Pillbox (1)

Mike Searle

Motor Vessel Oklahoma (formerly MTB 453), Long Island, 1957

MV Oklahoma moored at Long Island in 1957. Formerly HMS MTB 453, she was built for wartime service for the Royal Navy as a fast motor torpedo boat by the British Power Boat Co. at Hythe, near Southampton in 1943. She subsequently took part with distinction in Operation Neptune, the code name for the naval phase of the Allied Invasion of Normandy. Almost 72 feet long (22 metres), she was powered by three 1250 H.P. Packard Engines giving 40 Knots max, 35 Knots continuous. Crewed by 2 officers and 12 ratings, her armament comprised a 6 pdr gun, twin 20 mm Oerlikons, two twin Vickers Gas Operated Guns, two Mk VII Depth Charges, and two 18" Torpedo Tubes. After the war, MTB 453 was sold off, probably one of the 127 former Royal Navy motor torpedo boats beached on the sands off Shipstal Point in 1945. Offered by the Director of Small Craft Disposals as suitable for conversion into 'floating homes', it was seen as one answer to the post-war housing problem, although most probably went for scrap in the end. On holiday on Long Island in 1957, guests of the owners of MV Oklahoma. Scanned from a tiny print taken with a Kodak Brownie 127, my first camera; sadly, the camera was subsequently swept overboard from the deck of "Oklahoma" by a gust of wind, ending up in the water.

Mike Searle