Blashford Lakes

This wildlife reserve is run and maintained by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.

Blashford Lakes were former gravel pits that have been flooded together with woodland and now support many wildfowl like the Tufted Duck, Gadwell and Wigeon. During spring time the woodland is a lovely place to wander through where you can appreciate the carpet of wild flowers such as bluebells and daffodils.

In summer time you may witness the spectacle of up to twenty different species of dragonfly over the sometimes mist shrouded lakes and in the autumn the changing colours is a feast for the eyes.

With 8Km of pathways to explore, winding their way through the reserve connecting six wildlife viewing hides which are open from 9 am to 4.30 pm each day. The pathways are surfaced and relatively flat so walking should be no problem and the hides have ramps for wheelchair access.

There is also an education centre open through the year and can be used for school trips or youth groups and other interested parties offering activities such as bird watching walks, pond dipping and even camp fire cooking. Contact the Education Officer for further details.

The Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust is run by volunteers. They meet on a regular basis to maintain the reserve, completing tasks like coppicing, scrub and pondweed clearance, working on paths and creating new habitat projects. If you would like to get involved contact the Reserves Officer, Bob Chapman on 01425 476303.

Ellingham Drove
Ringwood
Hampshire, BH24 3PJ

Telephone: 01425 472760

Opening hours: Telephone for details