A new public nature reserve near Dorchester is set to officially open this weekend, with lakes, woodlands and heathlands available to explore.

Knighton Reserve - part of the Silverlake estate, a private luxury holiday home complex - will be opening for the first time on Sunday, May 7 at 11.30am.

The area, which borders Warmwell and Crossways, will provide a space for 'tranquility' and natural habitats for wildlife.

The 15.5 hectare green space is to be classified as a Suitable Alternative Natural Green Space (SANG), and has been 'carefully designed' to meet the needs of a 'wide range of wildlife species'.

It is made up of grassland, woodlands, scrubs, waterbodies, lakeside beeches and reed beds, while the public will be able to make use of dedicated walking routes, dog-friendly zones, paths and birdwatching lookouts.

Elsewhere, the 'Pooch’s Place' route - a one kilometre walk set aside as the only area where dogs are allowed off-lead - will feature a dog splash pond and dog swimming area.

For anglers, two adjoined fishing lakes which will be exclusively for the use of members of the onsite Angler’s Club.

There is a small car park available for drivers however parking is 'limited' and visitors are encouraged to visit by utilising public transport or on foot or bike where possible. 

A map showing the layout of the nature reserve and locations of notable spots and the car park can be found by clicking here. 

Will Vicary, director of land and planning for Habitat First Group, which owns and manages the Silverlake Estate and Knighton Reserve, said: “The primary purpose is to provide a space for wildlife to thrive in its natural habitat.

"We are delighted to be able to open this space up to the local community.

"Open space is incredibly important for mental health and we hope that people will come and enjoy the space, but ask everyone to understand that we all have a responsibility to protect the animals, insects and plant life that have made the SANG their home.”

Those who visit for the official opening on Sunday are also invited to take part in the traditional Coronation Coracle races on the lakes between 1pm and 4pm.

These small, one-person coracle boats are one of the most unusual to paddle along Britain’s waterways and can be traced back thousands of years. 

Whilst Knighton Reserve is fully accessible to the community, the wider estate and Silverlake facilities will remain exclusive to guests and homeowners.