Local Nature Reserves (LNRs)

What is a Local Nature Reserve?

Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) are for both people and wildlife. They are places with wildlife or geological features that are of interest locally, which give people special opportunities to study and learn about them or simply enjoy and have contact with nature.

There are over 1,000 LNRs in England ranging from windswept coastal headlands, ancient woodlands and flower rich meadows to former inner city railways, long abandoned landfill sites and industrial areas.

Local Nature Reserves are designated by local councils. Natural England manages the Local Nature Reserve scheme. If you need more information about LNRs and how to designate them visit Natural England.

Local Nature Reserves in Dorset

Dorset Council currently manages the following LNRs:

• Bugdens Copse
• Cogdean Elms
• Corfe Hills
• Dewlands Common
• Leigh Common and BytheWay Field
• Penningtons Copse and Alder Bed
• Potterne Hill
• Slop Bog
• Stephens Castle
• The Milldown
• Thorncombe Wood
• Walnut Tree Field
• Woolland Hill