Steamer Point Nature Reserve
Steamer Point is a safe space for wildlife and nature, where you can spot woodland and aquatic habitats while supporting various flora and fauna.
If nature excites you, this is the place to be!
Beyond what it represents, it also holds history, and you’ll surely encounter native plants and animals you’ve likely never seen before!
Local History
Steamer Point Nature Reserve carries a rich history closely tied to the local area’s past.
In the 1830s, Lord Stuart de Rothesay, who owned the land, used an old paddle steamer as a site office while building Highcliffe Castle.
The steamer was beached in a small inlet at Friars Cliff beach and secured between two large trees. It later became a beach house for about 60 years before falling into disrepair by the early 1900s.
In the 1960s, parts of the ship’s boiler could still be seen near the beach ramp by the castle, but it has since been removed or buried under the sea floor.
Lord Stuart de Rothesay also created large gardens around the castle, planting exotic trees and plants. However, these disrupted the local vegetation. In recent years, volunteers and Christchurch Council have worked to restore the area by removing non-native plants and helping the natural environment recover.
During World War II, Steamer Point was a key site for military radar research.
It housed a radar station, called ‘Site 16,’ and anti-aircraft defences, including a Lewis machine gun, playing an important role in protecting the south coast.
Not many people know that Steamer Point, near Christchurch in Dorset, was once a site for secret research into military radar and satellite communications.
The plaque reads:
From the early days of the Second World War through until 1980, this area was the trials ground for the Ministry of Defence Signals Research and Development Establishment (SRDE), and the nearby concrete plinth was the foundation on which stood the first British military communication satellite station.
On it was placed an aerial dish of 40 feet diameter which received and transmitted signals from the first launched British military satellite. It also tracked foreign satellites.
Over the dish was a weatherproof covering called RADOME (shaped like a beehive) and the whole structure became a landmark for mariners for miles around.
In the early days of the Second World War this site also saw secret radar developments for the Army and some twenty years later much of the early research on night vision was also done here.
The Establishment was actively involved in the research into optical fibres for communication purposes – which have since produced profound benefits for world-wide telephone systems.
Two similar structures were subsequently built and installed in Cyprus and Singapore and formed the beginning of the world-wide defence communication called Skynet.
Today, Steamer Point Nature Reserve is a wonderful mix of history and nature.
Visitors can enjoy learning about its past while exploring its preserved natural beauty.
What Makes this Reserve Special?
One of the most unusual features of Steamer Point’s forest is the presence of full-sized dead-standing trees.
In most managed forests, these trees would be removed, along with the ecosystem that depends on the dead wood.
These trees have been left in place, creating a rare and thriving environment.
A unique sound you may hear here, but rarely elsewhere, is the rat-a-tat of woodpeckers pecking into the dead timber.
The geology of the area dates back 40 to 50 million years, similar to Hengistbury Head.
The sandy, acidic soil creates a dry environment that supports heathland, chines, and dunes along the beach.
When the gardens were first created, several non-native species were introduced.
Over time, these plants spread and crowded out the native species. When the area was officially taken over, the plant diversity was low, with many areas dominated by introduced species.
However, significant efforts were made to restore the reserve, and now it supports a rich variety of native plants and animals.
Visitor Information
The Nature Reserve is open year-round and free to visit, making it a great spot for a peaceful day out, whether you’re a local or a tourist.
It’s just a short drive from Christchurch and easily accessible by public transport, so it’s convenient for those without a car.
Since the reserve doesn’t have facilities, it’s a good idea to bring water, snacks, and anything else you might need for a day outdoors.
The reserve offers beautiful picnic spots with tables, perfect for family recreation.
The views from the cliff edge are stunning and hard to beat, and with a lovely beach nearby, Steamer Point is truly special. Toilets are available at the entrance to the reserve and Friars Cliff.
• Parking is cheaper in winter and increases in spring.
• For lunch or a treat, be sure to check out The Castle Pantry at Highcliffe Castle.
Accommodation near Friars Cliff & Steamer Point Reserve
We’ve got you covered!
Our self-contained studio provides a cosy retreat with a king-size bed, a private entrance, and a fully equipped kitchen.
Take the opportunity to not only explore Steamer Point Nature Reserve but also stroll along Highcliffe Beach to soak in the calming atmosphere.
Dive into the history and beauty of Highcliffe Castle while you’re at it.
Perfect for couples, solo travellers, or anyone looking to relax near the coast— and it’s only a 5-minute drive from the reserve!
The Acorn Self Catering Studio Highcliffe Dorset
A luxury self contained studio only 10 minutes walk from Steamer Point
