Ballard Point

Coastal Marsh, Saltings in Dorset

England

Ballard Point

Fort Henry, Studland, near Swanage Fort Henry is an observation bunker overlooking Poole Bay. It was built during the Second World War. Although it is sometimes claimed it was built to assist in defending Britain&#039;s coastline against enemy invasion, that is not so. The bunker was built to observe practice landings in preparation for D-Day.

This image was taken on a dull and murky day in August 2021, with poor visibility. — Fort Henry, Studland, near Swanage Credit: Malc McDonald

Ballard Point is a picturesque coastal marsh and saltings located in the county of Dorset, England. Situated between Studland Bay and Swanage Bay, this natural landform spans an area of approximately 500 hectares.

The landscape of Ballard Point is characterized by its diverse ecosystem, combining salt marshes, mudflats, and sand dunes. The area is known for its rich biodiversity and is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Protection Area (SPA) due to its importance for bird species.

The salt marshes, which are flooded by tidal waters, provide a valuable habitat for a range of marine and bird life. The mudflats are home to a variety of wading birds, such as oystercatchers, curlews, and redshanks. The sand dunes, on the other hand, support a unique plant community, including sea holly and sea bindweed.

Visitors to Ballard Point can enjoy stunning coastal views and peaceful walks along the marshes. The area is also popular among birdwatchers, who come to observe the numerous species that inhabit the site. Throughout the year, the marshes are alive with the calls of birds, making it a haven for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts alike.

In addition to its natural beauty, Ballard Point holds historical significance, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Mesolithic era. The remains of ancient field systems and a Bronze Age barrow can be found in the vicinity, adding to the area's cultural heritage.

Overall, Ballard Point in Dorset offers a unique and captivating coastal experience, showcasing the beauty of nature and the historical richness of the region.

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Ballard Point Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.631378/-1.9329284 or Grid Reference SZ0481. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Fort Henry, Studland, near Swanage

Fort Henry is an observation bunker overlooking Poole Bay. It was built during the Second World War. Although it is sometimes claimed it was built to assist in defending Britain's coastline against enemy invasion, that is not so. The bunker was built to observe practice landings in preparation for D-Day. This image was taken on a dull and murky day in August 2021, with poor visibility.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path at Studland

This path in the village of Studland forms part of the South West Coast Path.

Malc McDonald

Bankes Arms, Studland

The Bankes Arms pub, in the village of Studland. The pub is believed to date from the 16th Century. The South West Coast Path follows the lane past the pub.

Malc McDonald

Manor Road, Studland

Manor Road is a lane in the village of Studland, in Dorset. It is on the route of the South West Coast Path. The building to the left of the image is a public toilet.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path near Studland

The South West Coast Path near the village of Studland, in Dorset. A marker stone stands to the right of the path.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path near Studland

A view of the South West Coast Path, with Studland Bay visible to the right.

Malc McDonald

Old Harry Rocks, near Swanage

Old Harry Rocks are sea stacks off Handfast Point (The Foreland), north of Swanage. They are formed of chalk and are classic features of coastal erosion. The rocks are under constant attack from the sea and Harry has already lost a "wife".

Malc McDonald

Old Harry Rocks, near Swanage

A National Trust sign at Old Harry Rocks, indicating that the National Trust owns and manages the land here.

Malc McDonald

Old Harry Rocks, near Swanage

A view of Old Harry Rocks and Poole Bay, taken on a dull and cloudy day in August 2021.

Malc McDonald

Cliffs and stacks at The Foreland, near Swanage

Cliffs and stacks on the Jurassic coastline close to Old Harry Rocks.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path at The Foreland, near Swanage

A view of the South West Coast Path as it approaches Old Harry Rocks, on the Jurassic coastline near Swanage.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path at The Foreland, near Swanage

A view of the South West Coast Path on The Foreland, on the Isle of Purbeck.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path near Swanage

The South West Coast Path heading towards Old Harry Rocks, on the Isle of Purbeck. Visible in this image are chalk cliffs and a sea stack, one of several here. In the background is Poole Bay, looking towards Bournemouth.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path near Swanage

The South West Coast Path, near Ballard Point on the Isle of Purbeck. Another path branches off through the gate and across the field.

Malc McDonald

South West Coast Path near Swanage

A view of the South West Coast Path near Ballard Point, looking towards Old Harry Rocks and Poole Bay. Visible to the right of the chalk cliffs are a couple of sea stacks.

Malc McDonald