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Studland Bay

Studland BayStudland bay is protected from the prevailing winds and storms by Old Harry Rocks, the chalk headland that separates Studland from Swanage bay. The beach extends north, part way across the mouth of Poole harbour.

To the West of Studland bay, there is a large area of heathland known as Godlingston Heath. Standing on a mound in the heath is the 400 ton, 17 ft high Agglestone, the local myth states that the devil threw it there from the Isle of Wight. In truth, it is more than likely part of a band of rocks that run across the whole of Godlingston Heath. The sandy earth was eroded around the firmer rock and left it standing proud. Other lumps in the landscape can be seen across the heath, including the Puckstone which, in years to come, may be another standing rock not unlike the Agglestone.

Many of the houses in the village of Studland Bay have been bought up as holiday homes, second homes, or guest houses, and the village's population varies depending upon the season. The village is five miles south of the conurbation of Poole and Bournemouth, but separated from it by Poole Harbour and a chain ferry. The village is five miles north of the town of Swanage, over a steep chalk ridge.
Behind the sand dunes there is a large area of heathland, called Studland heath, and Poole harbour. There is a fresh-water lake amongst the dunes which was cut off from the sea by the development of the dunes. The lake is a haven for birds and other wildlife.