A Dorset Christmas Festival: Pull a Pine at RSPB Arne

Join us for one of the biggest conservation events in the country.

While we love trees, what nature needs is the right trees in the right place. On our precious and rare lowland heathland pine and silver birch trees being prolific at seeding can quickly take over, blocking out the light and pushing heathland wildlife out as they grow. If allowed the trees will completely take over this very rare environment. By helping us to remove the pine trees, you can help us protect the beautiful heathland for the future and look after an area which some of our rarest wildlife in the UK call their home. Sand Lizards, Smooth Snakes, and our specialist heathland birds – Dartford Warblers and Nightjars rely on the heathland as their home. By cutting your own pine tree for Christmas you are not only taking home a piece of Arne, but you will be making a real difference to help the RSPB protect this rare and wonderful environment.

So, get your wellies on, dig out your hats and scarves and join us for a special festive day in nature. This year’s Pull a Pine will be held over 2 days on the weekend of 29 & 30 November, giving you more choice on which day or days to book.

The event runs from 10:00am – 3:00pm (last entry to site at 2:00pm). There will be live music, Christmas craft stalls, with locally made artisan and festive items for you to browse at your leisure, as well as carol singing and delicious festive foods. Advanced ticket sales only.

Our café team will be hosting a festive tent on the heath with refreshments, hot tasty food and mulled cider. Our shop and café in the wildlife garden will also be open for festive shopping and your Arne café favourites. The festival is a chance to start the festive season with family and friends and most importantly the opportunity to do your bit for nature.

images credits Terry Bagley (RSPB-images.com)