St Catherine's Hill is a 35 hectare area of heathland and coniferous forest which is a popular destination for dog walkers. The Hill is home to a large number of important wildlife species including the Dartford Warbler and the sand lizard and is designated as a SSSI, RAMSAR, cSAC and SPA. Views out over the River Avon can be enjoyed a short distance from the cache location.
The history of St Catherine's Hill goes back to the Bronze Age and it's likely the Hill was used as a lookout post during the Iron Age to Roman periods. During the World Wars, the area was used as a training ground in trench warfare and tank driving. After WW2 a nuclear bunker was built into the Hill by the Royal Observer Corps. Today, all that can be seen of this past is a disused telegraph pole about 15yrds away, two concrete reservoirs and the nearby Christchurch Gun Club.
This cache is placed with the kind permission of Christchurch and East Dorset Council, in partnership with Amphibian and Reptile Conversation Trust (ARC).Please only seek this cache during hours of daylight and avoid trampling on surrounding growth or disturbing the ground.
The cache is located on the mound, with a view out over Avon. On a clear day, views over to the Isle of Wight can be seen. The nearest parking area is in Hillside Drive, but several other entrances to the Hill are available for a longer walk. Unfortunately the location is not disabled or stroller accessible due to the steep hill. Please remember to BRING YOUR OWN PEN AND TWEEZERS TO REMOVE THE LOG and securely replace the cache as found.