Studland, Poole in Dorset
Today was a visit to Studland for a circular walk along Ballard Down and back through the heathland. This is one of my favourite walks and a must if in the area. Ballard Down offers some of the best downland habitat in southern England and is home to many butterfly species, including Adonis blue and chalkhill blue. This one I believe is a Chalkhill Blue. The stunning views along Studland Bay Canoeists having fun along Studland Bay Standing tall at the southern end of Studland Bay is one of the most famous landmarks on the South Coast – Old Harry. How Old Harry got his name is hotly debated. Some say it is linked to the Devil who, legend had it, once took a nap on the summit. Others claim he is named after the notorious Poole pirate Harry Paye who terrorised the English Channel in the 14th century. It is said Harry’s ship used to lurk behind the rocks ready to pounce on passing merchantmen. Whatever the truth, the bridleway from Studland vi...