Heritage Open Days- Studland Bay in WW2
Studland will be celebrating its role in the success of the D-day landings at the iconic Fort Henry. There will be a display of WW2 ordnance, children’s activities and a trail.
- Booking not needed
- Free event
Studland Bay is known to many as a leisure destination boasting four miles of beach, but its historical significance is often overlooked. Discover how Studland Bay was used for military exercises during the Second World War and learn about ‘Exercise Smash’ – a full scale dress rehearsal for the Allied invasion of Europe and its crucial role in the success of the D-day landings. Wander around Fort Henry and find out which four VIP's were said to have watched over the rehearsal from there. See other remnants of war such as the huge Dragons Teeth used as defence of an enemy invasion.
There will be exhibits and children's activities at Fort Henry. You can also follow a trail with a quiz sheet, taking in other WW2 remnants between Knoll and South Beach. Sheets can be collected from either Fort Henry or at Knoll beach.
Times
The basics
- Suitability
Family friendly event
- Meeting point
Access Fort Henry via steps by Middle Beach car park entrance. For alternative route (no steps, gravel track which is bumpy in places), follow the path opposite the entrance to South Beach car park.
- What to bring and wear
Wear clothes appropriate for the weather. Sturdy footwear recommended.
- Accessibility
Access Fort Henry via steps adjacent to Middle Beach car park entrance. For alternative route (no steps, gravel track which is bumpy in places), follow the path opposite the entrance to South Beach car park. Mixed and uneven terrain throughout. Designated accessible parking. Accessible toilets at Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and Shell Bay. Changing places at Knoll Beach.
Upcoming events
Summer of Play at Shell Bay
Bring the whole family out for a fun day playing on the beach this summer at Shell Bay.
Yoga in the Dunes
Enjoy a unique yoga session in Studland's dunes & a rare chance to connect with yourself & nature in the tranquil beauty of this special location. For all levels, this session blends gentle yoga, stretching, and meditation.
All-Terrain Vehicle Nature Tour
Enjoy the unique experience of a ranger guided nature tour around our beach and dunes in one of our all terrain vehicles (ATVs). A single ticket purchased will be for up to three people inside the vehicle.