Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs)

Around 30% of the North Dorset Area is designated under two AONBs reflecting the national importance of the local landscape. In partnership with other councils, the District Council has commissioned the production of Management Plans for the Dorset Area of Outstanding Beauty and the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Both documents will be adopted by the end of March 2004.

For more information.visit Dorset AONB dorsetaonb.org.uk and Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs AONB www.ccwwdaonb.org.uk

Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Love for the Land events 13^th – 25^th July 2009

To celebrate the 50^th anniversary of the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Love for the Land programme of free events is out now. Walks, rides, tastings and makings in some very special places – all free and a great day out in some outstanding countryside.

Listings

Sunday 19^th July

The Dorset Gap

Join geology expert Vince May on a guided walk to find out about the amazing natural forces that have shaped and moulded our chalk landscapes. Take in ancient hillforts, stunning views over the Blackmore Vale and the Dorset Gap – an ancient crossing point of tracks and droves.

Love for the Land event, FREE but booking essential. Dorset AONB 01305 756782, dorsetaonb@dorsetcc.gov.uk, www.dorsetaonb.org.uk

Monday 20^th July

Dip into the Winterbournes  (Winterbourne Stickland)

3 mile walk to discover the wildlife secrets of these rare streams, with bug expert Stella Huntington. Option of stream dipping at the end of the walk. Families welcome.

Love for the Land event, FREE but booking essential. Dorset AONB 01305 756782, dorsetaonb@dorsetcc.gov.uk, www.dorsetaonb.org.uk

Friday 24^th July

Forest Fun  (near Blandford)

Family art activities in Bonsley Wood, making minibeasts from clay and things from the forest, with artist Chris Holland. Families welcome.

Love for the Land event, FREE but booking essential. Dorset AONB 01305 756782, dorsetaonb@dorsetcc.gov.uk, www.dorsetaonb.org.uk

Saturday 25^th July

Pencil, paper and picnic (near Blandford)

Help us capture spectacular 360o views from Hod Hill hillfort, with artist Susan Saines – no artistic skills needed but you may want to bring a picnic! Families welcome.

Love for the Land event, FREE but booking essential. Dorset AONB 01305 756782, dorsetaonb@dorsetcc.gov.uk, www.dorsetaonb.org.uk

Contact Environment at North Dorset District Council on (01258) 484212 or email environment@north-dorset.gov.uk  for more information on this service.

Please note: We are currently experiencing a high volume of calls, and would advise that your enquiry may take up to five working days to process. Thank you for your patience.