The Blue Pool Nature Reserve & Tearooms

Nestled in the heart of the 300-acre Furzebrook Estate in the Isle of Purbeck, The Blue Pool Nature Reserve & Tearooms offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Dating back to the 17th century, The Blue Pool began as a hand-quarried clay pit for extracting Purbeck Ball Clay. Abandoned in the early 19th century, it filled with rainwater, creating a mesmerizing colour phenomenon due to light diffraction from minuscule clay particles suspended in its depths.

Since opening to the public in 1935, The Blue Pool has evolved into a beloved tourist destination. Today, visitors can explore over 30 acres of nature-filled paths and walkways, along with the UK's longest rope bridge, which spans an impressive 50 meters and offers stunning views across the Nature Reserve.

Site of Special Scientific Interest

The Blue Pool Nature Reserve is recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its abundant flora and fauna. Wildlife thrives in its natural habitat within The Blue Pool and the expansive Furzebrook Estate.

Family Favourites

A favourite among families, the site features a magical Gnome & Fairy Trail, where children can delight in discovering tiny fairy doors and spotting friendly gnomes nestled among the trees. Additionally, there is an adventure play area for young explorers.

The Tearooms

Established in 1935, the vintage-style Tearooms retain their original charm. Enjoy a selection of teas, coffees, cakes, and delectable lunches, or indulge in a traditional afternoon tea with homemade scones. Guests can relax on the terrace overlooking The Blue Pool or cozy up indoors beside the fireplace for a truly enchanting experience.

Complete your visit with a browse through the gift shop or a stop at the plant centre, and immerse yourself in the tranquillity and beauty of The Blue Pool Nature Reserve & Tearooms.

Events: Please visit The Blue Pool website for details of upcoming events The Blue Pool - Events (bluepooltearooms.co.uk)

Car parking: There is ample parking available on site, free of charge, including 3 accessible parking spaces for Blue Badge Holders. Please note there are no electric charging points.

Facilities: Facilities include the Tearooms, play area, gift shop and loos.

Dogs allowed: There are over 30 acres of paths and walkways for you to explore with your canine companions, please keep them on a lead and clean up after them.

Can I walk or get public transport: Yes the nearest bus and train stations are located in Wareham.

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Guide Prices

Facilities include the Tearooms, play area, gift shop and loos.

Guide Prices

Opening hours: Opening hours vary throughout the year please visit The Blue Pool website for details: The Blue Pool Nature Reserve & Tearooms - Home (bluepooltearooms.co.uk)

Guide Prices

1xAdult at 7.5, 1xChildren under 16 at 0, 1xSeniors & Concessions at 6.5

Road Directions

The nearest major road is the A351South of Wareham. Follow brown tourist signs from road south of Wareham.

Car parking: There is ample parking available on site, free of charge, including 3 accessible parking spaces for Blue Badge Holders. Please note there are no electric charging points.

Public Transport Directions

The nearest train station is Wareham approx 4 miles. The number 40 Wilts & Dorset bus from Wareham - Swanage stops at the bottom of the Blue Pool Exit Road. The number 275 bus (Swanage to Wareham) stops in Furzebrook on market days (Thursday). To plan your journey contact Traveline on 0871 200 2233 or visit their website: www.travelinesw.com to look up timetables.