Martin Down National Nature Reserve
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Overview
The Martin Down NNR on the edge of Salisbury Plain represents one of the largest areas of uninterrupted chalk downland in Britain. It has great views across Cranborne Chase and the lack of light pollution at night makes it an ideal place for star gazing. Notable plants found in the area include bastard toadflax, field fleawort, early gentian and lesser centaury. Twelve orchid species have also been identified, including burnt-tip, green-winged, greater butterfly and frog orchids. Five bat species have been recorded in the area. They are noctule, serotine, brown long-eared, common and soprano pipistrelle, and the brown hare is found throughout the site. Among the species of birds found at Martin Down are turtle dove, grey partridge, nightingale, skylark, yellowhammer and linnet. Hobby and quail may also be encountered and among the rarer visitors to the site are the dashing Montagu’s harrier and the strange, yellow-eyed stone curlew.
About the area
Hampshire’s varied landscape of hills and heaths, downlands and forests, valleys and coast are without rival in southern England. Hike across the chalk downland of the north Hampshire ‘highlands’, meander along peaceful paths through unspoilt river valleys of the Test, Itchen, Avon and Meon, or explore the lonely salt marshes and the beautiful medieval forest and heathland of the New Forest.
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Nearby places to stay
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Caravan & Camping
Church Farm Caravan & Camping Park
- Launderette
- Ice pack facility
- Cafe/Restaurant
- Picnic Area
Nearby places to stay
Church Farm Caravan & Camping Park
A spacious park located within the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which has been awarded Dark Sky status; the site is split into several camping areas, including one...
Summerlands Caravan Park
A quiet family-run campsite off the beaten track. The site affords peace and tranquillity with panoramic views and level grass pitches. Situated within the Cranborne Chase, an AONB, six...
West Farm Lodges
Farm buildings were converted into four attractive and comfortable two-bedroom lodges. Guests will enjoy the peaceful rural setting, although Verwood is just a mile away. You can walk t...
Coombe Touring Park
Coombe Touring Park is a very neat and attractive site adjacent to the racecourse with views over the downs. The park is well landscaped with shrubs and maturing trees, and the very col...
Undercastle Cottage
Undercastle cottage is a dog-friendly, luxury cottage in the New Forest that sleeps 4 to 6 people. It has sun terraces, lush gardens and 2,500m of private fishing on the Hampshire Avon....
Undercastle Cottage
Undercastle cottage is a dog-friendly, luxury cottage in the New Forest that sleeps 4 to 6 people. It has sun terraces, lush gardens and 2,500m of private fishing on the Hampshire Avon....
King John Inn
Very much the traditional village inn, the King John Inn has so much appeal, located in the sleepy village of Tollard Royal, on the borders of Wiltshire and Dorset. The bedrooms have be...
Wayside
This property is a modern, self-contained extension to the owner's residence with its own private outdoor spaces. It will comfortably accommodate a family of four or two couples. Locate...
